SENIORS ENCOURAGED TO SIGN ONLINE PETITION TO RESTORE PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE REBATE

Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is encouraging local seniors to add their name to an online petition calling on the Albanese Government to restore the private health insurance rebate for older Australians.

The paper version of the petition has already received an encouraging response from the community, and residents can now add their support online following the petition’s approval by the Parliament’s Petitions Committee at:

https://www.aph.gov.au/e-petitions/petition/EN10102

Ms Penfold said many older Australians in Lyne had done the right thing by taking out private health insurance, only to be hit with rising premiums and less support.

“Many seniors are already under real pressure from the cost of living,” Ms Penfold said.

“They have worked hard, paid their taxes, and made responsible decisions to look after their own health needs.

“But every time private health insurance becomes less affordable, more people are forced back into the public system.

“That puts even more pressure on local hospitals like Manning Base, Port Macquarie Base and Maitland Hospital.”

Ms Penfold said restoring stronger support for seniors with private health insurance was a practical way to help older Australians and reduce pressure on already stretched hospitals.

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“This is about fairness,” Ms Penfold said.

“Seniors should not be punished for trying to take responsibility for their health care

“I encourage people across Lyne to sign the petition and send a clear message that older Australians deserve better.”

You can sign the paper version in my Taree and Wauchope offices or at my regular Mobile Offices, and of course now online. The online version is open until 22 July 2026.

ENDS

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