The Latest Breaking News from Mark Butler

Labor backbenchers call for pandemic supports to continue as PM announces snap national cabinet meeting

Exclusive: Federal Labor MPs join NSW Labor leader Chris Minns in calling for Albanese government to rethink decision on Covid policies

The Guardian - AU · Jul 14, 2022

Morning mail: Covid deaths in aged care, record rents, brutal and brilliant State of Origin decider

Thursday: Almost 100 aged care residents are dying from coronavirus each week. Plus: should Australians cut down on charcuterie?

The Guardian - AU · Jul 13, 2022

Politics with Michelle Grattan: Health Minister Mark Butler warns COVID wave will worsen

With COVID cases surging in a new wave and half the winter still ahead, the news from Health Minister Mark Butler isn’t good.

The Conversation · Jul 13, 2022

Health authorities urge government to extend free RAT scheme for vulnerable Australians

Around 5.6 million vulnerable Australians received free RATs under the scheme the Albanese government is wrapping up, but those providing the tests are urging the government to reconsider.

ABC News · Jul 12, 2022

GPs, pharmacists urge free test extension

Medical experts want the government to extend the free rapid test program for concession card holders, saying scrapping it sends the wrong public message.

AAP · Jul 12, 2022

COVID-19 antiviral treatments are on the table for more Australians. What are antivirals and how do they help stop the spread of coronavirus?

More than 73,000 Australians have already benefited from COVID-19 antivirals, but what exactly are they and how do they ward off the virus?

ABC News · Jul 11, 2022

Long-COVID sufferers unable to access disability payments say they need more support

Australians with long COVID have had their lives turned upside down, but there is very little support or relief available. Sufferers say that needs to change.

ABC News · Jul 11, 2022

Vaccines and antivirals not enough to combat Australian Omicron surge, experts warn

Doctors accuse government of ‘mixed messages’ as hospitalisations rise, saying they should be open to more preventive measures

The Guardian - AU · Jul 11, 2022

What are Covid antiviral treatments and who in Australia is eligible for them?

Health authorities have expanded access to oral antivirals for coronavirus in Australia. Here’s what you need to know

The Guardian - AU · Jul 11, 2022

Health experts say COVID-19 complacency has restricted freedoms of the immunocompromised and elderly

Debate is once again raging about mask mandates, as health experts warn COVID-19 fatigue and complacency is costing the most vulnerable Australians.

ABC News · Jul 10, 2022