NEWS THAT MATTERS

Moves to save General Practice

The Opposition last week said it will move an amendment in Parliament to provide an immediate amnesty from payroll tax on payments to GPs and other health practitioners to ensure that essential medical clinics, especially in regional NSW, are not forced to close.

30 August 2023

 

THE NSW Government has now announced it will pause payroll tax audits for 12 months, which many GP clinics on the Central Coast and in the Hunter could benefit from.

 

There will also be a 12 month pause on tax penalties and interest accrued on outstanding payroll tax debts incurred before and at the commencement of the 12-month period.

 

The move will ensure practices can continue to serve their community and will allow for ongoing consultation with GPs, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and Australian Medical Association to find a long-term solution.

 

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley and Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris welcomed the plan, which was announced today by Minister for Finance, Courtney Houssos.

 

Minister for Finance, Courtney Houssos said, “This matter is historic and dates back to before 2018. Its resolution has been hampered by multiple court hearings and the neglect of the previous Coalition government. We understand this neglect has created great uncertainty in the GP community.

 

“That is why we will need time to satisfactorily resolve the matter.

 

“We also want time to assess the effects of the bulk-billing changes being introduced federally by the Albanese Government.”

Local practices already face rising costs due to the former federal Liberal Government’s decision to freeze rebates.

 

The NSW Government acknowledges further cost pressures could put pressure on GPs and already-stretched hospital emergency departments.

 

Any threat to healthcare accessibility and bulk-billing rates is a concern and that is why the Government has acted.

 

Member for Swansea and Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said, “Many of our GP practices are small, family-run businesses, and our area already has one of the lowest bulk-billing rates in the state.

 

“This is an important announcement for local clinics and patients.

 

“Everyone knows there’s a crisis in retaining GPs in regional areas. This will help doctors in our region.”

 

The pause to payroll tax audits will be implemented through an amendment to the Revenue, Fines and Other Legislation Bill.

 

Member for Wyong and Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris said that this was a win for the Coast, we can’t afford to lose our essential services and we can’t afford extra pressure on our hospital system.

 

“I know our community relies on affordable and accessible healthcare, that’s why rebuilding and restoring our essential services is a priority for this government,” Mr Harris said.

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