Labor Candidate for Forde, Brett Raguse, said today that Labor knows that health costs are a huge pressure on already tight family budgets.

“That’s why we will work to tackle rising health costs – and support working families wherever we can” Mr Raguse said.

In Forde over 27% of the community has health insurance, which has become increasingly expensive under the Howard Government. We know this puts pressure on the family budget so we support the 30% Private Health Insurance rebate that helps relieve this pressure.

This week, Labor confirmed that it will also support the higher 35% rebate for those over 65 and the 40% rebate for those over 70. Labor understands that many Australians rely on private health insurance to secure their health care and the rebate makes it affordable for them.

“Labor is committed to supporting Australians who make that choice” Mr Raguse said.

But just as importantly, we must invest properly and strongly in the public system to ensure all Australians get the care they need, when they need it.

Families in Forde also deserve to know what medical fees they’ll be paying before they go into hospital. That’s why Labor will consider acting to compel doctors to keep their patients informed.

Too often, patients are treated – and then hit with unexpected fees afterwards.

Labor is committed to helping working families facing tight budgets. We know that health costs are a major pressure, and we’re committed to supporting the people of Forde to meet and plan for those costs.

Mr Raguse said “Families in Forde deserve to get the help they need, when they need it”.