THE HON MARK BUTLER MP

MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND AGED CARE

THE HON STEPHEN JONES MP

ASSISTANT TREASURER

MINISTER FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES

MEMBER FOR WHITLAM

MEDIA RELEASE

Since January 2023, residents in the electorate of Whitlam have saved more than $1.9 million on cheaper medicines, with savings set to grow following an expansion of the number of medicines eligible for a 60-day script.

The Albanese Labor Government is doubling the number of medicines available for a 60-day script, with a total of 184 medicines now eligible as of 1 March 2024.

This means locals with ongoing health conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, breast cancer and menopause will now be able to receive a two-month supply of their medication for the price of one script.

Australians without a concession card will save up to $189 per medicine, per year. Pensioners and concession cardholders will save up to $46.20 per medicine, per year.

Locals have already been taking advantage of 60-day scripts, with over 19,500 60-day scripts dispensed between September 2023 and January 2024.

Nationally, Australians have already saved over $11.7 million on almost 3 million 60-day scripts in the same time period.

Every dollar the Government saved from 60-day prescriptions has been returned to pharmacies, with new programs and payments to provide more services to Australians.

Together, these investments have already seen an extra $50 million flow into pharmacies.

You can find the full list of medicines at: www.health.gov.au/cheapermedicines

Quotes attributable to Minister Mark Butler:

“Cheaper medicines have helped Australians save almost $280 million since January last year, with more savings to come in 2024.

“Another 100 medicines are now available for a 60-day script, saving time and money for millions of Australians with a stable ongoing health condition, so they don’t have to choose between their health and paying the bills.

“The Albanese Government is continuing to make medicines cheaper so that all Australians can access the medication they need."

Quotes attributable to Member for Whitlam Stephen Jones:

“60-day scripts are saving locals money, as well as unnecessary trips to the GP. It’s all part of our Government’s cost of living relief for Australian families.

“I’m pleased additional medicines are now available for 60-day scripts, because I know this will benefit many in our community.”

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