Consumers Health Forum of Australia
Next Government Urged to Boldly Reform Healthcare
The Consumers Health Forum of Australia (CHF) is urging the returned Labor government to seize the first 100 days of its second term to make healthcare more affordable, accessible, and consumer-focused.
Australians on the weekend have clearly voted for reform and investment into healthcare. As Australians grapple with the rising cost of living, long wait times, and a complex health system, CHF stresses that urgent action is needed to ensure people can afford the care they require, when and how they need it.
The government was re-elected on a promise of healthcare reform and investment. Now we want to see these promises delivered. Importantly the voices and needs of healthcare consumers must be involved as the government’s election promises are rolled out,” Consumers Health Forum CEO Dr Elizabeth Deveny said.
CHF is calling on the Albanese Government to prioritise:
“People want care they can both afford and access. Access is just as important as cost, and for those in rural and regional areas, it can be the bigger challenge,” Dr Deveny said.
CHF is also urging the federal government to work closely with consumers when delivering these reforms.
“We’re not calling for another round of consultation. We’re asking for shared responsibility – reform that includes the voices of those who use and pay for the system. These voices should be heard clearly,” Dr Deveny said.
“The next 100 days are a real opportunity. That means working together, across government, clinical and industry groups, departments, communities and trusted peaks like CHF, to reshape a system that better reflects what matters most to the people it’s meant to serve.”