Health budget changes ‘shortsighted’, ‘sleight of hand’, leaders charge. Yesterday’s Budget release from federal Treasurer Joe Hockey confirmed what many expected: the introduction of a $7 co-payment. In addition, general patients will pay an extra $5 for Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme-listed ...

As state governments continue to slash their spending, they say front-line healthcare is safe – but the reality on the ground seems to be different. Flynn Murphy reports The catchcry “cuts will not affect front-line services” comes from every government ...