Coalition Supports Better Access

17/08/10

The Coalition strongly supports the Better Access program and the roles of social workers and occupational therapists in that program.

The Rudd-Gillard Government introduced measures in the last Budget that would have stopped social workers and occupational therapists providing treatment under Medicare. It has since been forced to defer this action - another example of an ill-conceived healthcare measure.

The Better Access program was introduced by the former Howard Coalition Government as part of the biggest ever funding commitment to mental health services of $1.9 billion in 2006.

At this election the Coalition has committed to provide $1.5 billion to expand frontline services to cut the burden of mental health disorders within Australia.

The Coalition remains committed to the Better Access program and will continue it in government - ensuring therapists and social workers continue to provide valuable treatment and support to patients with mental health disorders.