The Latest Breaking News from Mark Butler

More than half of eligible Canberrans yet to have latest COVID jab

A "better" Omicron-specific vaccine will be available in coming weeks, the Health Minister said.

The Canberra Times · Sep 26, 2022

Migraine, ulcer treatments to be cheaper

Australian patients will save up to $130 million with new medicines being listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from the beginning of October.

AAP · Sep 26, 2022

COVID-19 mask mandate on NSW public transport to be scrapped from September 21

It's one of the last COVID-19 rules still being enforced in NSW, but Premier Dominic Perrottet says now is the time to change track.

ABC News · Sep 19, 2022

First multi-strain COVID-19 vaccine approved for use in Australia after government backs Moderna shot

Unlike other approved vaccines, which only target the original Wuhan strain, this one also targets the original Omicron BA.1 strain.

ABC News · Sep 12, 2022

Docs want details on cosmetic crackdown

A ban on patient testimonials and minimum hygiene standards are some of the reforms on the cards to rein in Australia's "cosmetic cowboys".

AAP · Sep 2, 2022

CSIRO report urges government to prepare for when the next pandemic hits

The CSIRO has outlined 20 recommendations for how Australia can be better equipped for when the next pandemic rears its ugly head.

The New Daily · Aug 30, 2022

Health workforce shortages could hold back expansion of Grampians Health services

Enticing trained nurses back to work, recruiting international professionals and hiring university students are part of an immediate approach to fill vacancies within health care.

ABC News · Aug 23, 2022

Former PM says he did not misuse secret ministerial powers – as it happened

This blog is now closed

The Guardian - AU · Aug 22, 2022

General practices are struggling. Here are 5 lessons from overseas to reform the funding system

New federal Health Minister Mark Butler says primary care is “in worse shape than it’s been in the entire Medicare era” and has made it his top health priority.

The Conversation · Aug 22, 2022

It’s getting hard to find a GP – these doctors explain why

Doctors say staff shortages and unsustainable funding arrangements are making it harder for patients to receive the care they need.

ABC News · Aug 19, 2022