The Latest Breaking News from Mark Butler

Medicare fraud and non-compliance costing taxpayers up to $3bn, review finds

Government-commissioned report argues structural reform is essential and requires a simpler, clearer billing system

The Guardian - AU · Apr 4, 2023

COVID-19 antiviral eligibility criteria have changed. Here's who can get Paxlovid on the PBS

An additional 160,000 Australians are now able to access subsidised COVID-19 antiviral treatments after the federal government expanded eligibility criteria under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

ABC News · Mar 31, 2023

COVID-19 leave payments ending for thousands of workers in high-risk settings

Thousands of workers in high-risk settings who miss work because they have tested positive for COVID-19 will soon no longer be eligible for federal financial support.

ABC News · Mar 30, 2023

TGA review strengthens case for much tighter vape restrictions at the border

On Friday, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) updated its review of proposed reforms to the regulation of nicotine vaping products. It reported the federal government is now “actively considering” the TGA’s advice.

The Conversation · Mar 27, 2023

Australian teenagers urge government to help them break vaping addiction

Submissions to the TGA include comments from 13-19-year-olds who want restrictions in place to help them with nicotine addiction

The Guardian - AU · Mar 26, 2023

GP advice can help you quit, not vapes: doctors

Doctors have joined the call for stricter e-cigarette regulations amid concerns Australia's successful smoking cessation efforts are being thwarted.

AAP · Mar 24, 2023

‘Overwhelming’ support for regulation of vape imports amid ‘health emergency’, TGA reports

Experts call for higher restrictions on e-cigarette imports while health minister accuses industry of making ‘new generation of nicotine addicts’

The Guardian - AU · Mar 23, 2023

Kids ingesting nicotine reason for vaping crackdown

Health Minister Mark Butler is examining changes to vaping laws after news children under four have been reported to poisons hotlines for ingesting nicotine.

AAP · Mar 22, 2023

Relief for diabetes sufferers with fast-acting insulin Fiasp to remain on PBS until September

Fast-acting insulin Fiasp has been a "game changer" for Daniel Webb in managing his type 1 diabetes. The drug was about to be removed from the PBS, but a temporary solution has been found.

ABC News · Mar 22, 2023

Afternoon Update: NSW election campaign gets messy; Uganda’s homosexuality death penalty; and polygamy killing male elephant seals

State politics heats up as Dominic Perrottet prepares to clash with Chris Minns in the final leaders’ debate

The Guardian - AU · Mar 22, 2023