QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator McALLISTER (New South Wales—Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme) (15:02): We had no choice but to make these investments. The future of Medicare depended on it because the coalition had a clear plan to demolish Medicare by neglect. Under the coalition, bulk-billing was in freefall.

The rate for children and concession cardholders was just 75.6 per cent because the coalition's six-year freeze ripped billions of dollars out of Medicare. The AMA estimated that the coalition would've taken $8.3 billion out of Medicare by 2027-28. So, while we are working to expand access to universal health care, those opposite haven't learned the lessons.

They have not learned a single thing. The Liberal Party, the National Party and One Nation have never valued universal health care. They voted against cheaper medicines, they all represent a huge threat to Medicare and, in their chaotic competition for supremacy, the last thing they have in mind is the Australian people.

Senator Wong: I ask that further questions be placed on the Notice Paper.