RACGP Calls for Evidence-Based Medicare Rebates
23 Feb 2026
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said GPs need long-term certainty that their practices remain sustainable, and that Medicare rebates accurately reflect the cost of delivering care.
“An independent pricing authority would set fees based on evidence, value and cost, rather than political agendas,” Dr Wright told newsGP. He added that such a move could also give GPs confidence to adopt fully bulk-billed care, as encouraged by the Government.
A 2023 newsGP poll found more than 80% of respondents supported the creation of a statutory body to determine Medicare rebates. The RACGP’s call forms part of its 2026–27 pre-Federal Budget submission and aligns with the Government’s 2024 Scope of Practice Review recommendation.
Federal Health and Ageing Minister Mark Butler said the Government is “not ready to hand off responsibility” for Medicare fees, emphasising Medicare remains a priority and the Government aims to strengthen the program.
Dr Wright highlighted that Medicare rebates have historically failed to keep up with inflation, with freezes imposed under multiple governments. He said setting rebates based on evidence rather than politics is essential to future-proof the system.
Recent data from the Blue Report by Cleanbill shows that 40.2% of general practices now offer full bulk billing, up from 20.7% the previous year. However, gap fees continue to rise, with 7.7% of Australians delaying GP visits due to cost in 2024–25.
The RACGP’s budget submission also recommends:
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Targeting funding for patients with complex healthcare needs
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Building the general practice workforce
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Promoting equitable health outcomes through research-informed care
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Preventing the health impacts of racism
Dr Wright said the changes are critical to ensuring universal healthcare remains accessible and sustainable for all Australians.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: newsGP