The Labor Government led initiative has set the maximum price for a PBS prescription at $25 for those without a health or concession card, from January 2026. It represents a reduction of $6.10 per prescription and will provide much needed cost of living relief for patients across Australia, said Pharmacy Guild of Australia National President Professor Trent Twomey.
Prime Minister Albanese made the announcement in a speech at Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference and Trade Expo, last week. It was matched by Shadow Health Minister Anne Ruston. The announcement followed a coalition of more than twenty health and community groups joining together to press the government to act to make medicine more affordable.
“Health is at the heart of this election” said Professor Twomey. “We know from next January things will get easier for patients who have been struggling to afford their medicine. Reducing the price of medicine is an effective cost of living measure.
“If patients take their medicine, they are less likely to have complications or end up in hospital. This is an important election commitment that will make a real difference to the health of patients.”
Local community pharmacies play a key role in ensuring the health and wellbeing of patients. They are increasingly returning to their role managing and treating everyday health conditions and managing long term or chronic conditions.
“Community pharmacies are open longer hours and over the weekend, making them a convenient and affordable destination to get the treatment patients need” added Professor Twomey.
“As trained clinicians, pharmacists play a significant role in managing and treating everyday health conditions as well as the long-term management of chronic conditions like hypertension, asthma and diabetes.”