Stop reducing private health rebate for Australians over 65
The issue
As a passionate advocate for the rights and welfare of older Australians, I am compelled to address the recent decision by the Australian Federal Government to reduce the private health insurance rebate for those over the age of 65. This move is not only unfair but also unjust, especially in light of the current cost of living crisis affecting the entire nation.
Older Australians have paid their dues, contributing a lifetime of taxes and service to the prosperity of our country. They are the very people who have shaped the society we live in today, yet they are now being penalised, facing financial strain and insecurity when they should be enjoying their golden years with dignity and peace of mind.
The reduction in rebates will inevitably pressure many seniors to relinquish their private health cover, which will only further strain our already overburdened public healthcare system. This creates a vicious cycle that affects all Australians, from increasing waiting times to the potential deterioration of healthcare services. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, public hospital waiting times for elective surgery have been steadily increasing, with median waiting times reaching 39 days in recent years. The situation could worsen as more seniors are forced to rely on the public system.
The government must recognise that fair policy-making is essential for all Australians, particularly the elderly who are most vulnerable to these changes. Maintaining the current rebate for those over 65 is a necessary step to ensure that older Australians retain access to the choices and security they deserve.
We urge the Australian Federal Government to reconsider this harmful policy and safeguard the health and dignity of our senior citizens. There are alternatives that could support sustainability in healthcare funding without sacrificing the wellbeing of our older population. For instance, exploring ways to reduce administrative costs in healthcare or incentivising preventative health measures could provide the necessary funds without such detrimental impact.
Please join me in advocating for justice and support for our elders by signing this petition. Let's show the government that Australians stand together for fair and compassionate policies that honour the invaluable contributions of our seniors.
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The issue
As a passionate advocate for the rights and welfare of older Australians, I am compelled to address the recent decision by the Australian Federal Government to reduce the private health insurance rebate for those over the age of 65. This move is not only unfair but also unjust, especially in light of the current cost of living crisis affecting the entire nation.
Older Australians have paid their dues, contributing a lifetime of taxes and service to the prosperity of our country. They are the very people who have shaped the society we live in today, yet they are now being penalised, facing financial strain and insecurity when they should be enjoying their golden years with dignity and peace of mind.
The reduction in rebates will inevitably pressure many seniors to relinquish their private health cover, which will only further strain our already overburdened public healthcare system. This creates a vicious cycle that affects all Australians, from increasing waiting times to the potential deterioration of healthcare services. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, public hospital waiting times for elective surgery have been steadily increasing, with median waiting times reaching 39 days in recent years. The situation could worsen as more seniors are forced to rely on the public system.
The government must recognise that fair policy-making is essential for all Australians, particularly the elderly who are most vulnerable to these changes. Maintaining the current rebate for those over 65 is a necessary step to ensure that older Australians retain access to the choices and security they deserve.
We urge the Australian Federal Government to reconsider this harmful policy and safeguard the health and dignity of our senior citizens. There are alternatives that could support sustainability in healthcare funding without sacrificing the wellbeing of our older population. For instance, exploring ways to reduce administrative costs in healthcare or incentivising preventative health measures could provide the necessary funds without such detrimental impact.
Please join me in advocating for justice and support for our elders by signing this petition. Let's show the government that Australians stand together for fair and compassionate policies that honour the invaluable contributions of our seniors.
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Petition created on 15 October 2026