STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms PAYNE (Canberra) (13:53): Recently, I attended the market days at ANU and University of Canberra, and I also visited the Australian Catholic University here in Canberra, where I heard about what the Albanese government's paid prac support means to students. Among them were Harsi and Caitlin from the Canberra Student Pharmacy Association, who spoke about the challenges of lengthy practical placements and the difference the support will make.

For many healthcare students, placements require hundreds of hours away from paid work and, in many cases, away from home. These commitments can place significant financial pressure on students preparing for the professions that our communities rely on. That's why the Albanese government is expanding the Commonwealth paid prac payment to students studying 10 additional frontline health professions, including pharmacy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, paramedicine, radiography and clinical psychology among others.

This builds on support already available to eligible teaching, nursing, midwifery and social work students. This is real cost-of-living relief. It means students can focus on gaining the skills and practical experience they need to complete their studies and serve our communities, rather than worrying about making ends meet.

By backing students today we are strengthening the healthcare workforce Australia will rely on tomorrow.