QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator MARIELLE SMITH (South Australia) (14:56): My question is to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator McAllister. We on this side of the chamber know how important it is to ensure that Australia has the health workforce we need now and into the future. A strong Medicare and aged-care system only works because of the frontline workers who deliver it.

Last month, the Albanese Labor government announced it would expand the Commonwealth prac payment to more frontline health professionals. Minister, can you tell us how the government is strengthening our future health workforce and easing the financial pressure on students studying these important courses and professions?