Story perspectives

Australia Implements Prescription Cost Caps and New Health Initiatives

12/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

From January 1, 2026, Australia will cap prescription costs under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme at $25.
Pensioners will continue to pay $7.70 for prescriptions until 2030.
A 24/7 Medicare phone service will connect patients with providers.
In Queensland, the government will launch a child sex offender register and amend double jeopardy laws.
Victoria will provide free public transport for under-18s and seniors on weekends and raise congestion levies.

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Story summary

From January 1, 2026, Australia will cap prescription costs under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme at $25.
Pensioners will continue to pay $7.70 for prescriptions until 2030.
A 24/7 Medicare phone service will connect patients with providers.
In Queensland, the government will launch a child sex offender register and amend double jeopardy laws.
Victoria will provide free public transport for under-18s and seniors on weekends and raise congestion levies.