Treasurer Joe Hockey tonight stated that a GP Tax is a live option being considered by the Abbott Government.
On 730 this evening, the Treasurer was specifically asked to rule out a GP tax:
Leigh Sales: Are you going to have the courage to actually back these sorts of views up with action? Because at the moment every time it seems that something a bit painful is floated, like say a $6 co-payment if you go to a bulk billing doctor, it gets floated there’s a bit of a stink and then the Government rules it out.
Joe Hockey: We are not ruling things in or out. We are dealing with all the suggestions put forward in a methodical basis.
7.30 – 29 January 2014
“Joe Hockey has confirmed what we all know – Tony Abbott is looking to introduce a GP tax,” said Shadow Minister for Health Catherine King.
“No amount of weasel words from Liberal MPs can change what the Abbott Government is planning – Joe Hockey has said it loud and clear: a GP Tax is on the table.
“The Prime Minister promised before the election he wouldn’t introduce any new taxes.
“Now he is trying to sneak in a GP tax – a new tax every time you take your sick child to the doctor.
“Mr Abbott is asking Australian families to foot the bill for his broken election promises.
“All Australians should get the healthcare they need – not the healthcare they can afford.”