Dan Repacholi
Hunter · Australian Labor Party · Australia
“It's practical and it's most certainly overdue I want to spend a bit more time on why this transparency matters in the real world. When people cannot see the cost up front, they're making decisions in the dark. They might pick the first specialist they referred to without knowing that there are more affordable ones right near them.”
“He said to me, 'I just want to focus on getting better and not having to worry about the bill.' This is the kind of uncertainty that is not accidental. When more of the burden is pushed onto individuals and people are expected to navigate the costs on their own, this is exactly what happens.”
“We tried that, and it simply didn't work. Out of thousands of eligible specialists, only a handful chose to share their fees. That is not transparency. That is a system that leaves patients in the dark. This bill fixes it by using data we already have—medical data, hospital billing data, insurer data.”
“If we make the system clearer, simpler and easier to understand, we remove more barriers. We make it more likely that they will actually take that next step, book the appointment, follow through with treatment and get checked early instead of late. That saves lives. And it's not just about physical health.”
“I've spoken to a family in Singleton whose teenage daughter needed a specialist consultation. They were trying to do the right thing, following the medical advice they were given, and get Olivia the care she needed, but they were given very little clarity on the cost.”
“They can see whether a doctor participates in gap-cover arrangements. They can understand what their insurer is likely to cover. This is common sense. It's something that people expect. This bill also provides transparency around hospitals and insurers. It will show which doctors operate at which facilities.”
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“So let's be clear about that from the start. This government absolutely acknowledges carp are a serious environmental problem, and we support strong action to deal with them. But when you're talking about releasing a biological control agent into Australian waterways, you've got to get it right, because once it's out there, you can't put the genie back in the bottle. Once a virus is released into rivers across this country, it's irreversible. That's why the government is taking an evidence based approach instead of rushing to meet political deadlines. Those opposite want to pretend the science is all wrapped up and settled. Well, it isn't. The National Carp Control Plan, published in 2022, found there is potential for the virus to help reduce carp populations. This is 100 per cent true.”
“I'm here to speak on the motion brought forward by the member for Gippsland about carp in our waterways and the proposal to release the carp herpes virus. I'll say this straightaway upfront: I don't think anybody in this place disputes the basic problem here. Carp are a destructive pest species. They tear up riverbeds, they muddy the water, they damage aquatic plants and they put pressure on native fish species that belong in our rivers. In some parts of the Murray-Darling Basin, they make up most of the fish biomass. Anyone who has spent time near these waterways knows the damage carp can do. Communities right across regional Australia are frustrated by it. Fishers are frustrated by it. Farmers are frustrated by it. Local communities want healthy rivers and healthy waterways, and so does this government.”
“Today we recognise the vineyard workers, winemakers, cellar door staff, hospitality workers and small businesses who keep the industry thriving. Because of them, the Hunter continues to be a powerhouse for regional jobs, tourism and divine Australian wine. Wine is more than just a drink; it's a conversation, a celebration and occasionally the reason somebody will confidently explain the notes of blackberry and oak while holding a $20 bottle of shiraz. On this International Wine Day, let's raise a glass, responsibly, to the people behind Australian wine—especially Hunter wine, which I maintain is the finest in the world. Cheers to International Wine Day and cheers to the Hunter Valley. Thank you for what you do.”
“Today we celebrate International Wine Day, which for many Australians sounds less like an international occasion and more like a perfectly responsible Monday evening plan. For thousands of years, wine has brought people together. Civilisations have changed and governments—and even some premiers—have come and gone, but 'I'll just have one glass' remains one of history's great works of fiction. Nowhere understands wine better than the Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest and most celebrated wine region. For nearly two centuries, the Hunter has produced world-class wines, welcomed visitors from across the country and the world and quietly convinced countless Sydneysiders that they're now wine people after a single weekend away. But behind every great bottle is a great deal of hard work.”
“These awards recognise businesses that go the extra mile, businesses that back themselves, businesses that understand success comes from hard work and great community values. While the winners will be announced on 29 May, every finalist has already done their community proud simply by earning recognition in such a competitive field. At a time when regional businesses continue to face rising costs and economic pressures, it's important to recognise the enormous contributions they all make. To every finalist I say thank you. Thank you for backing the Hunter, employing local people and continuing to prove that our region remains one of the greatest economic powerhouses this country has ever had. Thank you all.”
“These businesses are the backbones of our communities. They are the businesses sponsoring the local footy teams, employing the local workers, backing local events and keeping our regional economy strong. From small family run enterprises through to major employers, these finalists reflect the very best of what the Hunter has to offer. The Hunter isn't just Australia's energy heartland. It's also home to some of the most innovative, customer focused and community minded businesses anywhere in this country. Whether it's tourism, manufacturing, hospitality, health, agriculture, trades or professional services, businesses in the Hunter continue to punch well above their weight.”
“I want to congratulate all the finalists: Anytime Fitness Kuri Kuri, Australian Wildlife Parks, Beyond Ballooning, Bridgestone Select Tyre and Auto Huntlee, Dragonfly Cakes, HarmonyHive HR, Hunter Health Insurance, Hunter Valley Flooring Xtra, Hunter Valley Stays Australia, Hunter Valley Taxico, Hunter Valley Tours, Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley, Initial Response Group, KFIT and Body, Kissofire Hunter Valley Butterscotch, McCaffrey's Estate, Mountainside Counselling, SK Podiatry Plus, Newcastle Counselling Services, Peterson House, Reformed Bookkeeper, Just ROLL with it Huntlee, Ruthless Rituals, Sidecar Roasters, Vintage Connections, Huntlee Fitness, Wine Fairy Events, Adina Vineyard and Olive Grove, Morgan Engineering, Scott Porter Gardens, Springhill Beef Co. and Vines Restaurant at Hollydene Estate Wines.”
“I want to recognise the outstanding finalists from the Hunter electorate in the 2026 Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards. This year, the Hunter electorate absolutely dominated these awards. We have had by far the greatest number of nominations and the greatest number of finalists anywhere across the region. And that comes to no surprise for those of us that know Hunter best. We know that, when it comes to hard work, innovation, resilience and community spirit, nobody does it better than the people and the businesses of the Hunter.”
“After completing the trek with her family, most people would have headed home for a rest—I know I would have—not Katrina. She turned around and did it all again, this time leading a group of Hunter women as part of her business, Women Embrace Adventure. Katrina is one of those quiet achievers who does so much for our community. She inspires women to build confidence, stay active and support one another. She's an incredible mum, a fantastic local businesswoman, and someone the Hunter is very, very proud to have in our community. Thank you, Katrina, for what you're doing for our community. That would have been bloody hard doing base camp twice.”
“I want to recognise an incredible woman from Kilaben Bay who's making a real difference in our community through adventure, fitness and mental resilience. Katrina Croquett has just completed something most of us wouldn't even dream of attempting: trekking to Everest Base Camp twice, back to back through the Himalayas. That's more than 260 kilometres through snow, ice and mud and brutal high altitude conditions. What I love most about Katrina's story is why she did it. Her first trek was with her husband and her boys, Luke, Jake and Tyler. She wanted to show her sons the importance of getting out of your comfort zone, setting hard goals and backing yourself in. She wanted them to see that strong physical and mental health comes from being challenged and from discipline and resilience.”
“Thank you for the service you give to this beautiful country, thank you for your commitment and thank you for choosing to call the Hunter home even though it may only be a small part of your career there. To you, Speaker, and to everybody in this building: thank you to you all. Have a happy Easter. To all Australians and everyone in the Hunter: have a happy Easter.”
“Looking ahead, it is vital that we continue to support investment in the Lone Pine Barracks and ensure it remains a premier training facility for decades to come. That means modern infrastructure, quality accommodation for personnel and their families, and strong partnerships with local councils, businesses and community organisations. It also means recognising the value of defence to regional Australia. The Singleton Army base strengthens the Hunter economy, it strengthens our community and it strengthens Australia. To the soldiers, instructors, civilian staff and families connected to Lone Pine Barracks: thank you. Thank you for all you do.”
“And, yes, we're also proud of the slightly less well known but much appreciated feature of the Lone Pine Barracks: it's remarkable wine cellar. Only in the Hunter could you have one of the country's most important training bases sitting in the middle of one of Australia's premier wine regions. The officer's mess wine cellar at Singleton showcases the very best of the Hunter Valley wines and reflects the region's long and proud winemaking history. It's a reminder that the Army base is not isolated from its surroundings. It is connected to the culture, the industry and the identity of the Hunter. When visiting Defence personnel and dignitaries experience that cellar, they experience the Hunter. They taste our region. They take a piece of it with them. It's a small but symbolic example of how Defence and community are intertwined.”
“Beyond the dollars and cents, Lone Pine Barracks represents something even more important: service to this beautiful country. The soldiers who train at Singleton go on to serve in peacekeeping missions, humanitarian operations and combat deployments. They respond to natural disasters, support flood and bushfire recovery efforts, and stand ready whenever Australia calls. We saw that firsthand during the recent disasters, when Defence personnel stepped up to help communities right across New South Wales. Many of those soldiers trained in Singleton, and the Hunter is extremely proud of that. We are proud that our region plays a direct role in preparing the men and women who defend our nation. We are proud that Singleton is synonymous with professionalism, discipline and excellence in infantry training.”
“When Defence invests in infrastructure upgrades at Lone Pine Barracks, that work flows to Hunter tradies and to Hunter businesses. When soldiers and their families settle in the area, it supports our real estate market, our rental sector, our retail sector and our hospitality venues. In a regional economy like ours, built on mining, agriculture, viticulture, thoroughbreds, manufacturing and tourism, Defence provides stability. It provides steady employment and long-term investment. That matters. It matters for young people in the Hunter who are considering a career in the ADF. It matters for families who rely on the certainty of Defence employment. It matters for Singleton businesses who know that the presence of the Army base underpins economic activity in our town.”
“Every year, thousands of recruits, instructors and Defence personnel live, train and contribute to life in Singleton. They rent homes. They buy groceries. They join local sporting clubs. Their kids attend our schools and their families volunteer in our community groups. These are not separate from Singleton. They are Singleton. The economic contribution of the Singleton Army base to the Hunter region is significant. Defence investment supports local jobs directly on base and indirectly across our beautiful region. Local contractors provide maintenance, construction, catering, logistics and specialist services. Small businesses supply everything from equipment to uniforms to fresh produce. The ripple effect is real.”
“Today I want to speak about an institution that is woven into the fabric of the Hunter and the Upper Hunter: the Lone Pine Barracks, home to the Australian Army in Singleton. For many Australians, Singleton is a name and a highway sign between Newcastle and the Upper Hunter. For those of us who live there, it's a proud military town. At the heart of it sits Lone Pine Barracks, one of the most important army training bases in the country. For decades, generations of soldiers have marched through those gates to begin their careers in service of our wonderful nation. It is the home of the School of Infantry and plays a critical role in training the men and women who go on to serve Australia both here and overseas. Lone Pine Barracks is more than a training ground. It's more than a workplace. It's part of our community.”
“You can see why their numbers are going down, down and down in the polls. You can certainly see it. You guys need to have a good hard look at yourselves and think about what Aussies want, because Aussies want us to work together. The people of the Hunter want us to work together and actually do better for them, instead of being up here arguing over petty little things.”
“So, yes, this is a challenging time, but what matters is how we respond. And this government is responding by listening to Australians and acting on their interests. That's what leadership looks like: not noise; not politics; just getting on with the job. That's what I'll continue to do for my community. My community is telling me, every single day that I'm speaking with them, that they actually want us and the people on the other side from us to work together on this. We, right now, are in a national crisis. It's not something that we ever should be arguing about. This is the second time in less than five months that we've been in a situation where we should be working together, and it's utterly disgusting that those opposite are playing political games with people's lives right now. It is putrid.”
“They know it doesn't help them pay their bills. They know it doesn't help them make their fuel cheaper. They know it doesn't make their lives easier. What helps is action. What helps is listening. What helps is getting on with the job. And that's exactly what this government is doing. I've seen it firsthand. I've taken concerns from my community straight into conversations with the Prime Minister and ministers, and I've seen those concerns turn into real decisions. That matters, because it shows people that their voice travels from their street to their local member and through to the decisions at the highest level. That's what good governments do. That's what people expect. That's what we are delivering, because it's about keeping Australia moving and supporting communities like mine.”
“And we're working with states and industry and our international partners to make sure fuel keeps getting to where it's needed most. At the same time, we're continuing broader cost-of-living support, whether it's tax cuts, cheaper medicines or strengthening Medicare. Now, that didn't happen in a vacuum. That happened because people spoke up and because this government is all about listening and acting. And that's the difference, because what Australians expect in times like this is not noise. They expect us to step up. They expect us to work together. They expect us to focus on them. Instead, what they're seeing from those opposite is the same old behaviour: oppose everything; knock everything; offer nothing—and that's at a time when Australians just want us to get on with the job. People see straight through that.”
“The important thing is they are being listened to and action is being taken. That's how this government works. We listen and we act because this situation of the conflict in the Middle East is pushing up fuel prices right across the world, and that is not something that we can control, but what we can control is how we respond. What I've seen and what my community is seeing is a government that is responding. We've halved fuel excise for three months, taking off more than 25c per litre of fuel. That's relief straight up. That's money straight into people's back pockets. We've cut the heavy vehicle road user charge to zero, because we know that, when transport costs go up, everything else follows. We're cracking down on petrol companies doing the wrong thing, with tougher penalties and real enforcement.”
“The one thing I'll say about the people of the Hunter is this: they will always let you know exactly how they're feeling—thank you for that, too. They'll tell you straight up that fuel prices are hurting and cost of living is tough, and they just want to know what's being done about it. I've heard it from small business owners, tradies and families juggling mortgages and groceries all saying the same thing. They do not expect miracles, but they do expect us to take them seriously and do something practical. I've had people say to me: 'Just keep it simple. Just listen and do what you can.' That's exactly the approach I've taken. Last week I took those conversations directly to the PM. I've spoken with the relevant ministers as well, and I've made sure those voices are being heard.”
“When people in my community talk to me at local events, at mobile offices, at Cessnock, Singleton or Morisset Bunnings, they're not interested in political games. They're not interested in motions like this. They're not interested in cheap political pointscoring. What they are interested in is very simple. They want us to get on with the job. They want us to listen. They want us to act. In times like this, when a crisis is coming from beyond our shores, Australians expect their government to step up and lead with practical action. Right now people are feeling the pressure. They are seeing it every time they fill up the car. They are seeing it in their businesses. They are seeing it at their kitchen table when they're working out what the week ahead looks like. That's what's been driving the conversations I've been hearing back at home.”
“My question is to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. How is the Albanese Labor government delivering support to our farmers, producers and exporters to keep our food production strong and to help manage the impacts of the conflict in the Middle East?”
“And of course, it wouldn't be complete without mentioning Hairy himself—a proud Scotsman, often in a kilt, piercings on display, bringing character, humour and a touch of Scottish spirit to the Hunter. As they say: 'Aye, he's no backward in coming forward.' This milestone is a testament to their hard work and the support of the Cessnock community. It shows what can be achieved when passion meets perseverance. So I congratulate you, Hairy and Hailee, on your first year and a great success story. I wish you continued growth in the years ahead. And lang may yer lum reek, which means, 'Long may your chimney smoke.' Cheers.”
“I want to recognise a remarkable local success story in Cessnock: the Hairy Scotsman and Hailee Barber, who recently celebrated one year in business. Starting a small business is never easy. It takes courage, resilience, long hours and no shortage of determination. The early mornings and the late nights are moments where you wonder if it's all going to come together. Yet, as the Scots would say, 'Nae pain, nae gain,' and this past year proves exactly that. In just 12 months, Hairy and Hailee have built more than a barber shop. They've created a community hub, a place where locals can walk in a bit rough around the edges and walk out feeling like a new person, often with a fresh fade, a cupcake and perhaps even a cold beer in hand.”
“By reducing tariffs on imports from the EU, it will also lower costs for businesses and provide Australians with access to a wider range of more affordable goods, from machinery to vehicles and everyday household products. This agreement is about more than trade figures and tariff schedules. It's about people. It's about winemakers in the Hunter looking to expand into new markets. It's about farmers seeking a fairer price for their product. It's about the worker who benefits from new jobs created by increased export and investment. It's about ensuring that all Australia remains competitive, resilient and prosperous in a rapidly changing global economy. In times of turbulence, we do not turn inward; we reach outward. We build stronger partnerships. We open new doors and we back Australian industries to succeed on the world stage.”
“Attracting investment will drive new projects, industries and jobs in regions like the Hunter. Under this agreement, investment flows between Australia and the European Union will become easier, helping to unlock that potential. We also know that modern economies are not built on goods alone. Services, from education and tourism to financial and professional services, are a growing part of Australia's export story. This agreement creates new opportunities for Australian service providers by making it easier to operate in the European Union, including through streamlined recognition of professional qualifications and improved mobility of workers. That means more opportunities for Aussies to take their skills to the world and bring that experience back home. This agreement will also deliver benefits to Australian consumers.”
“It means greater diversification for export markets, something that is critical in today's global environment. It means reducing reliance on a single trading partner and strengthening economic resilience. It also means creating more well-paid jobs right here at home. The benefits do not stop at agriculture. The Hunter is also a region at the forefront of Australia's energy transition. From traditional energy exports to emerging industries like hydrogen and critical minerals, the region is positioning itself as a key player in the future of global energy. This agreement supports that transition by eliminating tariffs on Australian energy and resources exports, including critical minerals and hydrogen, and by providing greater certainty for investors. That is crucial.”
“This agreement will change that by removing tariffs on Australian wine exports, helping our winemakers compete more effectively in a valuable and high-income market. That means more opportunities for our vineyards, more certainty for our producers and more jobs flowing through local communities, from cellar doors to logistics and hospitality. It's not just wine; this agreement delivers significant benefits across the broader agriculture sector as well. It removes tariffs on products such as dairy, grains, horticulture, honey and processed food, while improving access for beef and sheepmeat through expanded quotas. For farmers across the Hunter and regional New South Wales, this opens a market that has been effectively closed for decades.”
“It will eliminate tariffs in a vast majority of Australian exports, making our products more competitive, affordable and accessible across Europe. For regions like the Hunter, this is an absolute game-changer. The Hunter is one of Australia's great economic regions. It is diverse, resilient and proud. It is home to not only world-class coal and energy exports but also to thriving agriculture, advanced manufacturing, tourism, Australia's finest thoroughbreds and one of the most iconic wine regions in this country. We are known for wines, mines and equines. Hunter Valley wine is recognised globally for its quality, heritage and unique character, but, despite that reputation, access to European markets has not always been straightforward.”
“The conclusion of negotiations on a free trade agreement between Australia and the European Union is not just another trade deal; it's a landmark agreement that opens the door to one of the largest, wealthiest markets in the world—450 million people and a combined economy worth around $30 trillion. At a time when global trade is becoming more uncertain and competitive, this agreement sends a clear message: Australia is outward looking, confident and committed to strengthening partnerships with like-minded economies. For too long, many Australian industries, especially in agriculture, have faced barriers to the EU market. Tariffs, quotas, complex regulations have made it difficult for our producers to compete on a level playing field. This agreement changes that.”
“I move: That this House: (1) recognises: (a) the conclusion of negotiations between Australia and the European Union (EU) to secure a free trade agreement, which will: (i) deliver significant economic benefits to Australian consumers, workers, producers and exporters by opening the doors of the EU's $30 trillion economy and 450 million consumers; (ii) eliminate tariffs on almost all Australian exports to the EU; (iii) guarantee new and significant market access for Australian farmers and producers, creating more well paid jobs here at home; and (iv) reduce costs for Australian consumers and businesses by making imports from the EU cheaper by cutting tariffs; and (b) that the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement will make EU investment in Australia easier, creating more jobs and supporting economic growth; and (2) notes that in times of turbulence in global trade, Australia is strengthening our partnerships across the world.”
“We've made medicines cheaper and we've put more into Medicare than ever before, delivering 137 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics. We're helping bring down power bills with Cheaper Home Batteries, and we're backing apprentices and students with real support. We're focused on easing the pressure for Australians, but those opposite, well, they just keep focusing on themselves. Still divided, still out of touch, they're more interested in political games and headlines than actually helping Aussies pay their bills. We're getting on with the job and delivering for every single Australian in this country.”
“Today marks 12 months since our government delivered tax cuts for 14 million Aussies. That's real help with the cost of living. You see, we have a simple view: if you work hard, you should earn more and keep more of what you earn. But here's the thing: this time last year, those opposite voted against it. The Leader of the Opposition, who was then shadow treasurer, led the charge. They voted no to tax relief. They voted no to helping Australians doing it tough. It gets worse. On Friday, it will be one year since those opposite said that if they won the last election they would put tax up for every one of those Australians. Higher taxes, less help—that's their plan. While they talk, we deliver. We're cutting into income tax this year and again next year. We've cut student debt.”
“I am proud of the $32 million package we have delivered. As a Labor MP, I am proud of our investment in women's health, in Medicare, in hospitals, in skills and in homes. As the member for Hunter, I am proud that families in places like Cessnock, Kurri, Singleton and Lake Macquarie are already seeing the benefits. These bills are about building a healthier, stronger, fairer Australia. That is what Labor stands for, that is what Labor delivers, and that is what we'll keep delivering in this term and beyond. I commend the bills to the House.”
“They also see it in everyday things that matter most—kids getting better support at schools, older Australians being looked after in aged care and young people getting a fairer go when it comes to jobs and housing. This is what Labor governments deliver: practical, fair, responsible outcomes that make life better for working people. The 2025-2026 appropriation bills are about keeping our economy strong, repairing the budget and delivering services Australians really rely on. We are continuing the fight against inflation while making sure Australians are supported through cost-of-living pressures. We are providing responsible cost-of-living relief, and we are building for the future. At the centre of all this is Medicare, making sure Australians can see a doctor, get the care they need and look after their health without breaking the bank.”
“This is responsible nation building—investments where it matters, savings where we can and always putting Aussies first. People in the Hunter know what responsible government looks like because they are seeing the results on the ground. They are seeing it in bulk-billing at our GPS. They are seeing it at the new urgent care clinics. They are seeing more TAFE opportunities, more apprenticeships and more homes being built. They see it in better support for Men's Sheds and mental health services. They see it in cheaper medicines and stronger hospitals. They see it in investment in jobs and industries of the future, whether that is clean energy, advanced manufacturing, green metals or our traditional industries as well.”
“That is practical support that helps people stick with their training, stay in the industry and deliver the homes of the future. I will say this bluntly. The other side never believed in TAFE. They cut it, they hollowed it out, and they pushed people into expensive private providers. We are rebuilding it because this government backs skills, backs training and backs Aussie workers. This budget is also about homes, jobs and a future made in Australia. We are taking action to ensure Australian homes are prioritised for Australians, including measures to limit foreign purchases of existing homes. We are making Help to Buy bigger and fairer. We are investing in green metals, clean energy and the future industries. We are cutting reliance on consultants and labour hire, saving taxpayers billions of dollars.”
“It gave me a trade, a career and a future, and it's still doing that for thousands of young Aussies today. That is why this government has made fee-free TAFE permanent. Skills are the backbone of our economy, tradies keep the lights on, build the houses, fix the machines and keep our economy moving. So many nurses, aged-care workers and disability support workers get their start at TAFE as well. In the Hunter, I meet young people taking up fee-free TAFE to become sparkies, chippies, plumbers and nurses. They are the workforce of the future, they build the homes Australians desperately need, and they will staff the hospitals, aged-care homes and childcare centres that our communities rely on. We're also providing up to $10,000 for eligible apprentices in housing construction trades.”
“That is changing under this government, and I know women in my electorate are noticing. From Kurri Kurri to Morisset, from Broke to Cameron Park, women are telling me they finally feel like their health is being taken seriously. As Special Envoy for Men's Health, I want to be absolutely clear: men's health and women's health are not in competition. We rise together. Supporting women's health makes our community stronger. Supporting men's health does the exact same thing. That is the vision underpinning our investment, and that is what Labor governments do. We invest in people. We put health care first. We back the services that Australians rely on every single day. This budget is also about the future—a future built by skilled workers. I left school at 15 to become a fitter. I know firsthand how much opportunity TAFE provides you with.”
“Our investment is about sending a message: your health matters, your mate's health matters and your government backs you in looking after it, as well. I also want to highlight women's health, because the two go hand in hand. This government has put record funding into women's health. When women are healthy, families are healthy and communities are strong. We are expanding access to reproductive services. We are funding more endometriosis clinics. We're improving menopause care and research. We are backing in more Medicare support for women's health services across the country. For the first time, women's health is not a side issue; it's a centrepiece of Medicare reform. This is about fairness. For decades, women were told to just put up with endo pain. For decades, menopause was ignored.”
“It helps expand suicide prevention and mental health support, and it helps address the barriers men face in accessing the right care at the right time. In the Hunter, I've seen this up close. I've visited men's sheds from Cessnock to Singleton to Lake Macquarie. I've spoken with blokes who say that without their shed they would be isolated, depressed or even worse. These places save lives, and government is backing them in. We are also talking openly about things blokes often avoid—prostate checks, mental health, heart health. I often say to blokes in the Hunter, 'It's not weak to speak; it's actually strong.' Now, thanks to simple blood tests, there are no excuses when it comes to a prostate cancer check-up.”
“As colleagues are aware, I was asked to serve as the Special Envoy for Men's Health, and I take that responsibility very seriously. For too long men's health has not been front and centre in the national conversation. We know the statistics. Men die younger. Men take their own lives at higher rates. Men are less likely to access preventive health services. Too many blokes put things off, stick their head in the sand and think that going to the GP is not for them. We are determined to change that, and that's why we announced a dedicated $32 million men's health package, the most significant national investment in men's health in years. The package supports local men's sheds, which provide safe spaces for blokes to connect and look after each other. It supports targeted prostate cancer awareness and screening campaigns.”
“We have made medicines cheaper, because no-one should be splitting pills in half or skipping prescriptions just to make ends meet. We have also supported renters and first home buyers with practical housing measures. We have helped parents with cheaper child care and guaranteed preschool hours. We have backed apprentices with cash payments to keep them in training. Every part of this budget is about making life just a little bit easier, while still being responsible with the nation's finances. These are practical, responsible measures that make a real difference, while not adding to inflation, and they are part of a bigger plan—a plan that takes the pressure off households right now, while investing in the services and skills that make life better in the long run. I want to take a moment to focus on men's health.”
“If you're a pensioner living week to week, bulk-billing is the difference between getting care and going without. If you're a young apprentice with not much cash in your pocket, bulk-billing means you can see your GP without worrying about how you're going to pay the next lot of rent. If you're a single mum juggling work and kids, cheaper medicines and bulk-billing will mean that you can keep your family healthy without breaking the bank. That is what Medicare is all about. I know families are doing it tough right now, and that is why we have provided responsible cost-of-living relief across the board. We have delivered more energy bill relief. We have delivered tax cuts for every taxpayer. We have cut student debt by 20 per cent.”
“That means more families in the Hunter can see a doctor without worrying about whether they can afford it. It means pensioners, young families, apprentices, people out of work—every one of them—can get the care they need when they need it, without the stress of the out-of-pocket costs. That is Medicare working exactly the way it was designed to. And it is happening because this government has put money where its mouth is. I hear from families every week who tell me they can finally go into the GP again, that they're not having to put it off, that they are not sitting at home hoping the cough or the pain just goes away. That is the difference bulk-billing makes. That is the difference Labor makes. I want to be crystal clear: if you live in Cessnock, Singleton, Kurri, Toronto, Edgeworth, Wyee or Greta, Medicare matters to you.”
“That is a tripling of what we inherited from those opposite, who froze rebates and sent bulk-billing off a bloody cliff. We have increased funding for public hospitals. We have rolled out more Medicare urgent care clinics, taking the national total to 137. We are building up our health workforce with more doctors and nurses, and we're lowering costs for patients, particularly women, by expanding access, choice and affordability. In my electorate of Hunter, this is not an abstract comment. It is something families are seeing in real time. I want to acknowledge the doctors at Always Healthcare in Cessnock and Kurri Kurri, who have taken up the opportunity and are now fully bulk-billing patients just like the other 27 in the Hunter are doing right now. Every single patient who walks through their doors is bulk-billed.”
“In a time of global economic uncertainty, rising interest rates and geopolitical instabilities, Australia has remained resilient. That is not by chance; it is by design—balancing the budget, lowering the debt, investing in people and delivering the high-quality services that Australians deserve. These appropriation bills are about more than just numbers in columns; they are about priorities and they are about values. Once again, health is at the very heart of what this government is doing. We know our health system is under pressure, and that is exactly why these investments matter. Medicare is the centrepiece. It always has been for Labor governments and it always will be. In this year's budget, we committed to making sure that by 2030 nine out of 10 GP visits will be bulk-billed.”