Big NDIS savings snagging on lone holdout state The federal government's frustration is growing over one state's refusal to sign on to one of its sweeping reforms to the NDIS. AAP · Sep 22
New cancer treatment gives lifeline to stranded women Women who suffer from breast cancer, endometriosis or other conditions that require ovarian suppression now have a new drug included on the PBS. AAP · Sep 17
Minister defends 'best practice' grant for sports club South Australian MP Mark Butler says he encouraged a council in his electorate to apply for a national grant to give its soccer club a home. AAP · Sep 16
A funny limp turns into giant steps against cancer A toddler's unexplained limp led to a devastating cancer diagnosis. Now thriving, her family is supporting a campaign raising vital funds for cancer research. AAP · Sep 12
NSW police seize 36 illegal ebikes on northern beaches that are now destined for the crusher Officers found one 14-year-old’s ebike was capable of hitting 90km/h. Owners have two weeks to appeal the seizure before the bikes will be crushed The Guardian - AU · Sep 12
Bed-block warning as emergency wards brace for impact The number of patients in hospitals who don't medically need to be there could rise to potentially catastrophic levels, a state health minister has warned. AAP · Sep 9
Gang violence fuels calls for action on cigarette tax The federal government is coming under increased pressure to act on links between the tobacco excise and a thriving black market fuelling organised crime. AAP · Sep 8
'Selfish race': former cop skeptical on tobacco tax cut A retired police veteran has suggested most smokers will still reach for a pack of illegal cigarettes if legal alternatives are made cheaper. AAP · Sep 7
Over 65s 'expensive target' in health insurance debate One of Australia's most senior GPs has warned the government's cost-cutting insurance rebate measures are likely to blow out, as people forgo treatment. AAP · Sep 4
'Eye-watering': minister stares down health funds plea Lobbying from state leaders has failed to unlock more money from the federal government to address the growing problem of aged care bed block . AAP · Sep 3
Will a not-for-profit takeover of private hospitals cut fees for patients? The truth about Hunter private hospital bids revealed. Newcastle Herald · Aug 31
Subsidised access to cancer-fighting drug expanded The federal government has expanded the range of cancers a drug will be subsidised to treat as part of its discounted medicines scheme. AAP · Aug 29
'Not a strong argument' to lower refugee intake numbers Federal ministers have defended the prime minister's decision to keep Australia's annual refugee intake on hold amid a migration overhaul. AAP · Aug 27
Cutting over-65s' rebate will add pressure on ACT's public hospitals: Libs Canberra Liberals urge federal rethink of planned health insurance rebate change. The Canberra Times · Aug 23
The Guardian - AU · Aug 22 A new scheme is about to replace the NDIS for children with autism. Why has Queensland refused to sign up? State’s premier and many parents have questions about the Thriving Kids program. But what happens when the NDIS funding stops?
AAP · Aug 20 Two-year extension on home support program for elderly Older Australians will retain basic support such as cleaning, gardening and transport under Labor's home care extension.
The Guardian - AU · Aug 18 Defence joins search for missing bushwalker – as it happened This blog is now closed
The Guardian - AU · Aug 18 Controversial NDIS bill passes Senate with ‘substantial’ amendments as Labor and Coalition strike deal David Pocock says legislation still includes ‘indiscriminate cut’ impacting thousands of participants but will pass lower house on Wednesday
The Guardian - AU · Aug 14 Heart, smarts and pragmatism: why health minister Mark Butler is suddenly a contender as a future PM Cabinet colleagues say the veteran politician’s carriage of the NDIS firestorm shows his political judgement and collaborative style
The Conversation · Aug 11 View from The Hill: government shuts down telehealth-for-VAD bill, defying Labor conference The government has blocked a crossbench attempt to allow telehealth to be used in voluntary assisted dying care – despite strong support for the measure at last month’s Labor national conference.
AAP · Aug 11 Labor keeps voluntary assisted dying services offline Doctors will continue to face significant financial penalties for delivering voluntary assisted dying care remotely as Labor knocks back reform efforts.
Newcastle Herald · Aug 10 Why your GP visit now costs more, despite a boost to bulk-billing rates Minister: 'It's good for patients' hip pockets and their health.'
AAP · Aug 9 Talks leave Labor odds-on to win gambling reform stoush Contentious gambling reforms are on track to pass parliament with bipartisan support, despite fears from opponents the changes don't go far enough.
AAP · Aug 2 Labor holds firm as seniors face $250 health cover hike Health Minister Mark Butler has defended a cut to private health insurance rebates for over-65s as he faces a revolt among states opposed to the change.
AAP · Aug 2 'Just a backbencher': minister defends charged MP role A senior Labor minister has defended the government's decision not to stand down an MP accused of assault from his role as a special envoy.