Opposition Accuses Government of “Bullying” GPs Over Bulk Billing Push
12 Jun 2026
Opposition Accuses Government of “Bullying” GPs Over Bulk Billing Push
Source: RACGP newsGP
Debate has intensified in the Australian Parliament over the Federal Government’s push to increase bulk billing, with the Opposition accusing some Labor MPs of using “coercive tactics” against general practitioners.
Concerns were raised during a Senate Estimates hearing, where Opposition senators questioned whether GPs were being pressured into adopting a universal bulk billing model, despite claims that participation is voluntary.
The issue has also been linked to financial pressure on some practices, including a remote Western Australian clinic that recently closed after saying the costs of operating a fully bulk-billed service exceeded available funding.
During the hearing, Shadow Health Minister Anne Ruston asked whether more than 30% of GP practices could be financially worse off under a full bulk billing system. Officials from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing responded that modelling showed some practices would not be better off, particularly those charging higher out-of-pocket fees.
They added that out of 6,600 practices analysed, around 4,800 were expected to potentially benefit from joining the program over time.
Senator Ruston also raised concerns about MPs writing to local clinics questioning why they were not bulk billing, describing the approach as pressure on GPs.
Federal Finance Minister Katy Gallagher rejected the criticism, stating that MPs engaging with local practices was part of their normal responsibilities and not bullying. She said many MPs have been communicating with general practices about government support and efforts to increase bulk billing rates.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said there is growing concern within the profession, warning that some practices feel uncertain about government expectations.
He said Medicare rebates are not keeping pace with rising costs, adding pressure on general practice and contributing to reduced funding share over time.
Dr Wright also referenced research published in the Medical Journal of Australia, showing that the share of health spending directed to general practice has fallen from around 8% two decades ago to about 5.5% in recent data.
He said the trend reflects a broader shift in health funding away from primary care and is contributing to sustainability challenges for many practices.
Opposition Accuses Government of “Bullying” GPs Over Bulk Billing Push
Source: RACGP newsGP