The Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt MP has renewed calls for Labor to scrap the cut to the private health insurance rebate for Australian’s aged over 65.
This morning, Labor’s Health Minister Mark Butler reintroduced the failed policy after the Senate voted to block Labor’s Private Health Insurance tax grab.
Mr Batt said instead of listening to the strong opposition, the Government has doubled down, and this bad policy is back on the table.
“For months, I’ve been out listening to over 65’s in Hinkler where around 26,300 seniors face the prospect of private health insurance bills rising,” Mr Batt said.
“These are people who have worked hard, paid their taxes, and paid for private health insurance all their lives.
At the very time they need that insurance most, Labor is hell-bent on making it more expensive. It is simply unfair for Labor to punish older Australians by reducing the private health insurance rebate.”
Mr Batt said the Coalition team supports choice.
“That’s why I’ll keep fighting to stop Labor’s cut to the private health insurance rebate.
This government is making a habit of reversing bad decisions so let’s hope they scrap this one.
In Hinkler, there’s already enough pressure on cost of living and our public hospitals – let’s not make it worse.”
Mr Batt has praised everyone who signed the petition and contacted his office in opposition to the slashing of the rebate for over 65’s.
“Thank you for making your views heard. The Coalition will continue to fight to fix the economy and protect Australians’ way of life,” Mr Batt said.