Delivering high quality health care services

In 2007-08 the Government will spend $51.8 billion on health and aged care.

A healthy, active Australia

Improved nutrition and physical activity will be promoted, including through an additional $124 million over four years for the Active After-school Communities Programme.

Greater focus on chronic and complex conditions

This budget will improve the treatment of Australians with chronic and complex conditions.

Enhanced access to dental treatment of up to $2,125 per year in Medicare rebates will be available to people with chronic and complex

conditions who are managed under a GP treatment plan. This will cost $378 million over four years.

In recognition of the more complex consultations involved, $291 million over four years will be provided to introduce two new Medicare rebates for the treatment of chronic and complex conditions by consultant physicians.

The Government has also committed $103 million through the Council of Australian Governments for risk assessments and treatment for those at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Medical research

$486 million in grants in 2006‑07 to support the construction of world‑class health and medical research infrastructure.

Better access to care

Initiatives will increase access to Australia's health care system, including $72 million over four years in Medicare rebates for extended out-of-surgery after‑hours care by GPs.

Combating illicit drugs

This budget provides $150 million over the five years from 2006‑07 to combat the use of illicit drugs, including methamphetamines such as 'ice'.