Dr Dennis Jensen MP

Several of my constituents have been hung up on when telephoning the Minister for Health, Nicola Roxon’s office.
Tangney residents were ringing to voice their concerns about the Gillard Government’s plan to dramatically change the 30% Private Health Insurance Rebate.

They all have the right to inform the Minister’s office of their concern without being hung up on.

One of my constituents, Mr Charlton from Attadale called the Prime Minister’s office and was transferred to the Minister for Health, Nicola Roxon’s office. Mr Charlton was lucky enough to have his concerns heard but was “unhappy” with his experience with both the Prime Minister’s and Minister Roxon’s offices and found the explanation for the repeal of the rebate unsatisfactory.

I have expressed my concerns and those of 1687 Tangney residents who signed petitions against the governments repeal of the Private Health Insurance Rebate to Shadow Minister for Health and Ageing Peter Dutton when in Canberra.

Deputy Opposition Leader Julie Bishop presented the Tangney petitions to Parliament along with others from Australia wide totalling 35 000.Western Australia has one of the highest rates of health insurance in the country.  Over half of all West Australians have private hospital cover and many more have cover for ancillary services. Our state has a great deal to lose if this measure is passed.  

 This is yet another set back for families in Tangney already struggling with increased cost of living pressures from a Government that has lost its way. I along with my Coalition colleagues will continue to fight for affordable private health.

The Coalition will continue to oppose bad Labor policy and we are committed to ensuring all Western Australians have access to affordable healthcare.