Statement

I am honoured and delighted to be reappointed as Minister for Health.



Every day I see the amazing work of our doctors, nurses and medical researchers in helping to protect patients and save lives.



Our task as a Government will be to support our patients and medical community in the ongoing implementation of the Long Term National Health Plan with its emphasis on guaranteeing Medicare and support for our Hospitals.



In particular I will focus on delivering new medicines through the PBS, the deep shared passion with the Prime Minister of further strengthening our support for mental health and in particular youth mental health and suicide prevention and delivering our 10 year Medical Research Strategic Plan.



I look forward to working with Senator Richard Colbeck on the vital work of caring for our seniors and implementing the reforms of the Royal Commission into Aged Care.



It is a particular privilege to assist the Prime Minister in helping to frame the national policy agenda through the work of Cabinet and our capable and dedicated public service.



I also congratulate Ken Wyatt on his appointment as Minister for Indigenous Australians and Senator Richard Colbeck as Minister for Sport, Aged Care and Senior Australians.