Private health could spark double dissolution

The government could have another trigger for a double-dissolution election if the Senate rejects Labor plans to means test a private health insurance rebate.

MBF_logo_1205_B_sbs_1601716499
The federal government could have another trigger for a double-dissolution election by the end of Monday if the Senate rejects Labor plans to means test the 30 per cent private health insurance rebate.

The government needs the support of seven non-government senators to push through legislation that phases out the rebate for singles earning more than $75,000 and for families on over $150,000.

Labor argues the measure would save the budget $1.9 billion over four years and end a taxpayer subsidy to most well-off Australians.

The opposition has countered by saying the government is breaking an election promise not to tinker with private health insurance.

The Senate previously rejected the measure in September.

The government can use a second rejection to seek a double dissolution of both houses of parliament and an early election.


Share

1 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Download our apps
SBS News
SBS Audio
SBS On Demand

Listen to our podcasts
An overview of the day's top stories from SBS News
Interviews and feature reports from SBS News
Your daily ten minute finance and business news wrap with SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves.
A daily five minute news wrap for English learners and people with disability
Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS
SBS World News

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service
Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world