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2mo ago

Labor Promises $644 Million for 50 New Medicare Urgent Care Clinics

The Albanese government plans to expand its bulk-billed urgent care network if re-elected, aiming to improve access to non-emergency healthcare across Australia.

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The outside of a commercial building with Medicare Urgent Care Clinic signage
The $644 million proposal aims to deliver extra clinics in every state and territory, but Australia's peak body for GPs has raised concerns about whether the facilities will offer taxpayers value for money.

Overview

  • Labor has pledged $644 million to establish 50 additional bulk-billed urgent care clinics, increasing the total network to 137 clinics nationwide.
  • The new clinics are designed to provide walk-in care for minor injuries and illnesses, helping to ease pressure on hospital emergency departments.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that 80% of Australians would live within a 20-minute drive of a clinic once the expansion is complete by mid-2026.
  • The initiative is part of Labor's broader $8.5 billion Medicare commitment, which also includes plans to achieve universal bulk-billing for most GP visits by 2030.
  • While the opposition has expressed support for bulk-billing reforms, concerns have been raised about expanding the clinic network before completing a full performance review.