POLITICS
Record jump in Bulk Billing brings relief
Australians are gaining improved access to affordable healthcare, with new data showing more than 3,400 Medicare bulk billing practices now operating nationwide. The increase follows the Federal Government’ s major investment in strengthening Medicare, with almost 1,300 practices returning to bulk billing after previously offering mixed billing services.
Locally, residents in the Greenway electorate now have access to 29 bulk billing practices, including seven that have recently made the switch. This is part of a broader trend across New South Wales, where GP bulk billing rates have risen to 85.3 per cent.
Nationally, the bulk billing rate has climbed to 81.4 per cent in just three months— the largest quarterly increase in 20 years, excluding the COVID pandemic period. Australians aged 16 to 64 have seen the biggest gains, with a 6.9 percentage point rise, the highest increase ever recorded for that age group.
As a result, around 96 per cent of Australians now live within a 20-minute drive of a registered bulk billing practice, improving access to essential healthcare services.
The turnaround follows changes introduced in October 2023, when incentives for GPs were tripled for bulk billing children under 16 and Commonwealth concession card holders. Since then, more than 90 per cent of visits for these patients are now bulk billed. Further incentives introduced in November also support practices that bulk bill all patients.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said the investment is delivering on its promise to strengthen Medicare and make healthcare more accessible.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland said the improvements are already benefiting North West Sydney residents, with more local practices returning to bulk billing.
Australians can locate their nearest bulk billing GP by visiting health. gov. au / bulkbilling.
Find Your Voice at Mount Druitt Koori Toastmasters
A passionate group of locals in Mount Druitt is helping community members find their voice, build confidence, and grow as leaders. Mount Druitt Koori Toastmasters, part of the global Toastmasters International network, provides a welcoming and supportive environment where people can develop communication and leadership skills.
Founded in 1924, Toastmasters International is a worldwide educational organisation dedicated to improving public speaking and leadership abilities. Millions of people— from students and job seekers to business owners and community leaders— have benefited from its structured and supportive programs.
Mount Druitt Koori Toastmasters offers a culturally respectful space that celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices while welcoming everyone. It is a place where stories are shared, confidence is built, and personal growth is encouraged.
Members learn through practical experience, delivering prepared speeches, participating in impromptu speaking sessions, and receiving constructive feedback. The club also helps develop leadership skills,
with members taking on roles such as Chairperson, Evaluator, and Timekeeper. These experiences strengthen teamwork, organisation, and confidence— valuable skills in both professional and community settings.
Clear communication is one of the most sought-after skills in today’ s workplace, and Toastmasters helps members present ideas confidently, lead discussions, and seize new opportunities. Beyond the podium, members often experience improved selfesteem, stronger listening skills, and greater confidence in everyday life.
One of the club’ s greatest strengths is its supportive atmosphere. There is no pressure to be perfect— only encouragement to improve. Guests are welcome to attend meetings, observe, and experience the environment firsthand, with no obligation to speak.
Whether you want to share your story, advance your career, or simply build confidence, Mount Druitt Koori Toastmasters provides the tools to help you succeed.
Meetings: 2nd and 4th Thursday, 7.00pm – 8.30pm
Location: Rooms 3 & 4, Mt Druitt Hub, 9 Ayres Grove, Mount Druitt
Phone: 0493 738 750 22 ISSUE 60 // MARCH 2026 theindependentmagazine. com. au BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT