Greens block private health rebate cuts, demand changes to protect low-income seniors

The government’s plan to withdraw the private health insurance rebate for Australians 65 and older, projected to free $3 billion for aged-care initiatives, faces strong opposition from the Greens, who say the change would impact over two million people with incomes below $37,000. Greens health spokesperson Jordon Steele-John called the proposal cruel and warned it could force seniors to choose between health care and basic living costs.

The party is reportedly considering amendments, including a pensioner exemption. The Coalition has already pledged to block the legislation in the Senate, leaving the government dependent on Green support. Data from the health department and the Parliamentary Budget Office show that about $1.6 billion of the savings would be reclaimed from pensioners, intensifying criticism. While some health economists argue the impact would be minimal, the parliamentary inquiry’s report highlighted worries about higher costs for older Australians and pressure on the public health system.