The proposed changes were due to begin on 1 April 2027.
On Wednesday, 14 October, the Senate voted to remove the Bill from its agenda because it did not have enough support to proceed.

The next day, 15 October, the Government reintroduced the Bill to Parliament, despite not currently having the support needed for it to pass the Senate.

For now, the proposed changes are not in effect. The Senate's decision made on Wednesday, 14 October, remains a positive sign that there is significant opposition to the proposed change.

While we don’t expect the Bill to pass in its current form, it remains a possibility. The Government may also seek to negotiate changes to the Bill, including protections for pensioners, to secure additional support.

We’re continuing to monitor developments closely and will contact you directly if anything changes that could affect your cover or rebate.

The Government helps cover the cost of private health insurance through the Private Health Insurance (PHI) rebate, which is currently higher for older Australians. People aged 65 to 69 can receive up to 28.337%, while people aged 70 and over can receive up to 32.385%.

Earlier this year, the Government proposed removing this higher rebate for people aged 65 and over and replacing it with the lower base rebate for Australians under 65. This would have meant many older Australians paying more for their cover, particularly pensioners and others on fixed incomes.

Westfund advocated on behalf of members throughout this process, focusing on affordable access to private healthcare and the broader impact on public hospitals and regional services.

Your cover and your rebate remain unchanged for now. There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to review your policy or make any decisions based on this bill.

We will keep you updated as things develop, and we are always here to talk through your cover and answer any questions you have.

As a not-for-profit health fund, we put people over profits. Looking after your interests will always come first.

We were proud to stand alongside our members, Members Health Alliance and other industry organisations, doctors, hospitals, community groups, and other health funds in this effort. Our advocacy will continue, and we will remain watchful on your behalf.

Many members contacted their Member of Parliament, signed our petition, or shared their personal story. Each of those actions helped make the case for a fair outcome. We are genuinely grateful to everyone who took the time to get involved.