The Australian Greens will not be supporting the motion to disallow 60 day dispensing, as moved by the Liberals.
Following consultation with consumers and health care providers, the Australian Greens Party Room supports the community’s access to cheaper medicines, which will come into effect from the 1st September 2023.
As stated by Senator Jordon Steele-John, Australian Greens spokesperson for health:
“We’ve heard from the community that their priority is cost of living relief, additionally the move to 60 day dispensing will support disabled and chronically ill people as they will undertake fewer trips to the pharmacist.
“We are incredibly proud that after years of the Greens calling for the change, the government has agreed to support better access to medicines for people with opioid dependency.
“Through our negotiations, the Greens have pushed the Government to announce measures that will provide additional support to regional and rural pharmacies, along with a commitment to bring forward the negotiation on the next Community Pharmacy Agreement.
“We strongly encourage the Minister to commence negotiations on the Community Pharmacy Agreement in good faith with the sector, and implement an updated agreement that prioritises measures to support the communities access to community pharmacies.
“The Greens are committed to making a more universal and accessible healthcare system for all of the community and we will continue to push for reform that achieves this.”
