AIDA welcomes $8.5 Billion Prioritisation of Primary Health Care Funding in Budget
The commitment to significantly increase funding for bulk billing access in the federal budget, announced on Tuesday 25th March, is welcomed by the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association (AIDA). As the national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors and medical students across Australia, AIDA acknowledges this major investment will potentially service areas in need with more access to GP bulk-billed care.
“Primary health care is a fundamental right, and improved access for First Nations people across Australia is critical to improved health outcomes” Dr Jonathan Newchurch, AIDA President said.
“However, it is important to acknowledge that the changes advantage shorter consultations, therefore AIDA cautions that this does not cause a disincentive for longer consultations, which are fundamental for chronic disease and complex care management.”
While it won’t meet the needs and overheads of all GP practice types, we recognise this is significant progress and welcome the prioritisation of primary health care services in the budget.
AIDA also welcomes another $689 million pledged from January 2026 to reduce the maximum cost of many medicines.
“Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme is a crucial component of our universal healthcare system, and we are pleased to see it will continue to provide even more affordable access to essential treatments, at no more than $25 for a PBS medicine,” said Dr Newchurch.
The commitment to increase the number of medical places at universities focused on primary health care is also a welcome priority. With an additional 100 medical Commonwealth Supported Places per year from 2026, increasing to 150 per year by 2028, and demand driven places for First Nations students to study medicine ($48.4 million). Our Indigenous medical workforce is such a valuable asset to the healthcare system, they bring a unique understanding that all of Australia can benefit from, particularly Indigenous people.
Nonetheless this funding will not directly address the significant disparity between the number of First Nations students entering medicine (4.2%) versus those graduating (below parity at 2.3%).
Similarly, AIDA acknowledges the $37 million for upgrades to potable water supply in the Torres Strait. Energy poverty and access to drinking water are some of the social determinants of health that disproportionately impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ health and wellbeing.
AIDA also welcomes the $9.2 million over three years to states and territories to deliver improved monitoring and detection of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease and provide education and training for health care providers, individuals, families and Communities. There are direct impacts and worsening health outcomes as a result of climate change and inadequate housing. Preventative measures are needed to address these real and significant issues that affect the wellbeing of First Nations people on a daily basis. Additionally, the $3.5 million to extend the preventative health program, Deadly Choices will contribute to the uptake of ‘715 Health Checks’. This investment in preventative and primary care focusing on key areas of risk, including early detection of common and treatable conditions, will help to address major contributors to First Nations illness.
While AIDA welcomes these support measures to improve access to primary healthcare and medicines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, only five of the 19 Close The Gap targets are on track to be met, while six are improving. AIDA urges governments to address the social, economic and political determinants of health with more effort and intensity. For more than 25 years, AIDA has been committed to working with governments to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors are not only increasing in numbers but thriving in the health system to ensure best outcomes in Indigenous health and health across Australia.
AIDA’s vision is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have self-determination, and are empowered to promote the strength of First Nations led-solutions, to improve health outcomes for our people.
ENDS
About AIDA
The Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) is the peak professional body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors and medical students. AIDA’s purpose is to strengthen the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce, from students to specialists, through advocacy, leadership, and cultural mentorship. We also continue to work towards and advocate for a culturally safe Australian healthcare system, free from racism, and with accountability measures in place.
Our vision is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have self-determination and equitable health and life outcomes in a culturally safe health system.
26 Mar 2025
Media Release