Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Mid this year, I gave birth to my first child at Dandenong Hospital, where I experienced firsthand the peace of mind that comes from a strong public health system supported by Medicare. There were no bills, no gap fees—just compassionate, high-quality care and the freedom to focus on my son, not my finances.

That experience reminded me what Medicare truly stands for—the simple but powerful idea that no Australian should ever have to choose between their health and their wallet. The Albanese Labor government's expansion of bulk-billing incentives is delivering on that promise. It is the single-biggest investment in Medicare in more than 40 years, ensuring Australians can see a GP with their Medicare, not their credit, card.

Recently I visited Our Medical Cranbourne and Clyde North Medical Centre, which is now bulk-billing every patient. Doctors told me this change has meant that more locals are coming through the door seeking care earlier and without fear of cost. Already, 23 GP clinics across Holt have signalled their intent to become fully bulk-billing practices. This is the Australia we are building, where health care is accessible, affordable and universal.

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