Leader of the Opposition and Member for Maribyrnong, Bill Shorten said local residents were rightly concerned about the future of Medicare with just weeks until the Abbott Government’s Federal Budget.

 

“Again and again, the Abbott Government has refused to rule out a new $6 tax on GP visits. This is a government that has a clear agenda to undermine Medicare - and therefore the health and wellbeing of every Australian,” Mr Shorten said.

 

“But local residents can tell Tony Abbott to keep his hands off, by signing the Save Medicare petition at www.savemedicare.org.au.”

 

Mr Shorten said the proposed tax would make it harder for local residents to see their GP, increase pressure on family budgets and put additional strain on public hospitals and emergency wards.

 

“Medicare and bulk billing are founded on the principle that every Australian should have access to the health care they need, not just the healthcare they can afford. But clearly the Abbott Government doesn’t share this belief.”

 

“A $6 tax would hurt the most vulnerable in our community, forcing them to bear the brunt of the Abbott Government’s cuts agenda.”

 

“But Labor is the party of Medicare, and Labor will fight to ensure the future of Medicare.  I urge local residents to join that fight, by adding their name to the petition.”