On 3 March 2015, the Minister for Health and Minister of Sport, the Hon Sussan Ley MP, announced the $5 rebate reduction and optional co-payment for GP consultations, scheduled to commence on 1 July 2015, will no longer proceed.
The Minister for Health will continue to consult with doctors and the community around the country to come up with sensible options to deliver appropriate Medicare reforms to build a strong and sustainable Medicare.
The Government announced it will be proceeding with its pause on indexation of Medicare rebates for GP and non-GP items while it works with stakeholders to develop future policies.
Further information can be found at Medicare consultation.