Dental into Medicare and see the GP for free 

If you’re worried about the cost of going to see a doctor, or you’re putting off going to the dentist, you’re not alone. 

It’s now more expensive to see the doctor than ever before, and harder than ever to find a doctor who will bulk bill. 

Here in Melbourne, it now costs on average $51.51 in out-of-pocket costs to see a doctor, according to a new report by the independent health directory Clean Bill. 

Only 13.2 per cent of all clinics in Melbourne now bulk bill, down 10 per cent over the past two years. 

People are also skipping essential dental procedures because they can’t afford it. An Australian Dental Association survey found 61 per cent of people delayed dental treatment in the past 12 months, with affordability the main reason.

In a wealthy country like ours, everyone should be able to afford the basics, like healthcare.

We can do something about it. There is a federal election on the way, and experts are predicting a minority government.

Because Melbourne voted Greens, last time there was a minority government the Greens got dental into Medicare for kids. More than three million families have been able to use their Medicare card at the dentist for their children, thanks to Melbourne voting Greens.  

This election, with a minority government, the Greens will keep Peter Dutton out and get Labor to act on healthcare. 

I have released costed policies to get dental and mental health into Medicare, and also to see the GP for free, by building local free healthcare centres and lifting the bulk-billing incentive. With one in three big corporations currently paying no tax, we’ll tax the big corporations to fund it.

Labor’s recent decision to adopt part of our “GP for free” plan shows Greens pressure works, and we’ll keep fighting to make sure everyone can afford the healthcare they need.

Last minority government, Melbourne got dental into Medicare for kids – this time, let’s get it for everyone! •