Statement on Federal Budget 2016-17

The George Institute for Global Health issued the following statement from Executive Director Vlado Perkovic on the Australian Government’s Federal Budget 2016-17.

“The Federal Government plays an enormously important role in supporting an Australian health system that delivers high quality, affordable and accessible healthcare.

“We’ll be reviewing the budget closely in coming days and weeks, but in our initial review, we applaud the Government’s continued commitment to the Medical Research Future Fund; the roll out of the Healthier Medicare reforms, specifically the Health Care Home pilot for chronic care and the alternative payment system for GPs this will include; and the continuation of the MBS Review to identify efficiencies within Medicare.

“Additionally, the increased funding for the Health Star Ratings, the additional resources to fight Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and the emphasis on integrated healthcare and innovation, including the roll out of MyHealth Record, are welcome, targeted approaches.

“We look forward to engaging further with the Government and all interested stakeholders, as we will continue to push for initiatives around smart and effective evidence based treatments, creating a quality health system, and ensuring broader health equity and access, particularly for disadvantaged populations.”