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        <title>Medibank Newsroom</title>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank and parkrun celebrate 10-year partnership]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-and-parkrun-celebrate-10-year-partnership</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank and parkrun celebrate 10-year partnership]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank is celebrating its 10-year partnership with parkrun Australia, marking a decade of bringing local communities together every Saturday morning to walk, run, volunteer or spectate while supporting both physical and mental wellbeing.
A major partner since 2016 and presenting partner since 2022, Medibank has supported parkrun’s growth to more than 550 locations nationwide with over 1.3 million local participants and 204,000 volunteers.
The impact of the partnership can be seen not only in participation numbers, but in the role parkrun plays in supporting healthier, more connected communities. parkrun is increasingly being recognised as part of ‘social prescribing’ where health care extends beyond clinical treatment to include community-based activities that can help improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Medibank Chief Executive Officer David Koczkar said the long-standing partnership forms a key part of Medibank’s commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of all people in Australia.
“Our 2030 vision is to deliver the best health and wellbeing experience for Australia, an ambition that is shared with parkrun,” said Mr Koczkar.
“Not only does parkrun create the opportunity for regular movement, it provides a place for people to form meaningful social connections, which play a key role in supporting mental fitness.
“Over the years, we’ve expanded our support for parkrun communities, from rewarding our members for participating in parkrun through Live Better Rewards to offering free health checks as part of our Medibank Live Better van tours, we’re proud of the impact of our work together.”
parkrun Asia Pacific’s Managing Director Renee Gimbert said the partnership had played a significant role in its national growth.
&quot;We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support that Medibank has provided to parkrun Australia over the past 10 years,” said Ms Gimbert.
In that time, we have launched 380 new locations and extended our health and wellbeing impact by introducing parkrun to correctional facilities, military bases and universities.
“Thanks to Medibank's contribution, we launched 40 parkruns in 40 weeks in 2018, kicked off a national parkrun road trip in 2023 and have shared countless stories from people whose lives have been changed by the parkrun community.”
The milestone was celebrated on Saturday 27 June at Curl Curl parkrun where more than 600 participants gathered to enjoy a free breakfast, massages, give-aways and live music, celebrating the role parkrun plays in helping people stay active and connected.
parkrun is a community-led organisation helping more than 1.3 million participants across Australia stay active, connected and energised in the outdoors. Held every Saturday morning at over 550 locations around Australia, parkrun is a free 5km community event that sees up to 100,000 walkers, runners and volunteers participating each week.
Medibank Live Better vans not available at all parkrun locations. View the Medibank vans upcoming visits here.
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                                    <author>sharna.rhys-jones@medibank.com.au (Sharna Rhys-Jones)</author>
                                <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Canberra mental health hospital delivers game changing results with nation leading model of care  ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/canberra-mental-health-hospital-delivers-game-changing-results-with-nation-leading-model-of-care</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[New data from Deakin Private Hospital confirming it is leading the way nationally in transforming how Australians receive mental health treatment]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[A groundbreaking mental health care model in Canberra is delivering impressive results, with new data from Deakin Private Hospital confirming it is leading the way nationally in transforming how Australians receive mental health treatment.
More than 1,300 patients have now been treated with this innovative model, which focuses on shorter hospital stays combined with intensive, wraparound care in the community. This shift in model is supporting significantly better long-term patient outcomes, prioritising care beyond hospital walls, supporting patients in their homes, alongside their families and communities, where real-life recovery happens.
Traditionally, private mental health readmission rates remain alarmingly high, with over 45% of psychiatric patients readmitted to hospital within 12 months, according to Medibank data.
At Deakin Private Hospital, readmission rates have consistently outperformed this standard, the average readmission rate at Deakin Private Hospital over the past 12 months has been 22%.
Practicing psychiatrist and Medibank Chief Medical Officer Andrew Wilson said the results highlight a critical shift in mental health care delivery. “This is exactly the direction mental health care needs to take in Australia. Shorter hospital stays combined with comprehensive, ongoing support in the home environment leads to better outcomes for patients,” Dr Wilson said.

Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in real life—at home, with family, with friends, and within the community. This model recognises that and wraps care around the patient in a way we haven’t seen at scale before. We are seeing patients not only stabilise more effectively but maintain their progress because they are supported where they actually live their lives.

The integrated model combines inpatient care, day programs, telehealth, and in-home clinical support, ensuring continuity of care well beyond discharge. Patients may begin with a short hospital stay before transitioning to structured, high-frequency support at home, including clinician visits and regular virtual check-ins.
Dr Wilson said the model reflects a broader transformation underway across the health system.
“This is part of a much-needed transition in healthcare, moving away from episodic, hospital-centric treatment toward continuous, patient-centred care,” he said.
“For many patients, especially those with trauma-related conditions, being treated at home with the right clinical and practical supports leads to better engagement, better recovery, and ultimately a better quality of life.”
This mental health model is being replicated nationally, with similar approaches implemented at iMH’s other hospitals, Nundah Private Hospital in Brisbane and Hirondelle Private Hospital in Sydney, expanding access to this innovative style of care for more Australians.
With demand for mental health services continuing to rise, the results from Canberra demonstrate a scalable, sustainable model that can re-shape mental health care across the country.
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                                    <author>alice.ross@medibank.com.au (Alice Ross)</author>
                                <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[On the darkest day of the year, Medibank urges Australians to check in on mental health as it shares six tips to lift your mood  ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/on-the-darkest-day-of-the-year-medibank-urges-australians-to-check-in-on-mental-health-as-it-shares-six-tips-to-lift-your-mood</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank is reminding Australians that low mood, fatigue and social withdrawal are common in winter, and that simple lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[As Australia reaches its winter solstice this weekend – the shortest day and longest night of the year – Medibank is reminding Australians that low mood, fatigue and social withdrawal are common in winter, and that simple lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference.
The winter solstice falls on this Saturday 21 June, the point at which Australia experiences its least daylight hours of the year. For many Australians, winter is also the peak of the season’s toll on mood, energy and motivation.
While the ‘winter blues’ is a widely used term, Medibank wants Australians to understand the difference between the ordinary sluggishness that winter can bring and a more serious condition: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a clinically recognised form of depression that fluctuates with the seasons.
Medibank’s Group Medical Director Dr Shona Sundaraj said the winter solstice is a natural moment to pause and check in with yourself and those around you.
&quot;We’re encouraging everyone in Australia to check in on their mental health this weekend. It’s important to understand the difference between a lower winter mood and knowing when to seek help,&quot; Dr Sundaraj said.
“It is not unusual to feel a little unmotivated, sleepier than usual, or drawn to comfort food when the cold sets in. But for some Australians, seasonal changes trigger something more significant.  Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons.
“SAD is a condition that is well known in the northern hemisphere – where long periods of darkness drive seasonal depression – research has also identified an association between mood, behaviour and seasonal changes in Australia, with the highest prevalence observed in Tasmania.”
Winter blues vs Seasonal Affective Disorder: know the difference
Seasonal Affective Disorder symptoms typically begin with persistent lack of energy and fatigue that can start in the late autumn or winter and ease off with the warmer months starting. It can also include:

Sleeping excessively or struggling to wake in the morning
Overeating, particularly cravings for carbohydrates
Unexplained weight gain
Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed

Medibank’s six tips to lift your mood this winter
Medibank’s health experts recommend these practical steps to support mood and mental wellbeing through the colder months:
Get moving: Exercise has a direct impact on serotonin levels and sleep quality. Even a yoga session, a swim at an indoor pool, or a stretch at home can shift your mood when heading outside feels unappealing.
Chase the sun: On clear days, get outside. Roll up your sleeves and take a brisk walk to catch winter sunshine and top up vitamin D. Even pottering in the garden or cycling to work can make a difference. Check UV levels via the Bureau of Meteorology or the Cancer Council’s free SunSmart app.
Try guided meditation: Guided meditation apps and mindfulness programs that take as little as 10 minutes. Think of it as a few moments to refocus, rather than a discipline to master.
Ease back on alcohol: Alcohol can worsen low mood. Limiting alcohol intake or trying Dry July could improve sleep, energy and mental clarity.
Eat for your mood: A balanced diet supports mental health. Reach for complex carbohydrates — green vegetables, wholegrains and legumes — which slow sugar absorption and may increase serotonin levels.
Set your body clock: Sleep and mood are tightly linked. Go to bed when you’re tired, wake at a consistent time each morning, and resist the snooze button. Regularity helps ‘set’ your circadian rhythm and builds energy over time.
The science behind the slump
Reduced sunlight in winter is believed to disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm – its internal body clock. Spending more time indoors means less sunlight, which triggers the body to produce more melatonin (the sleep hormone) and less serotonin (the mood-regulating hormone). This hormonal shift has been linked to the core symptoms of SAD.
Serotonin is the body’s natural mood stabiliser – controlling feelings of wellbeing and happiness. Reduced serotonin levels are thought to contribute to depression.
When to seek help
If low mood, fatigue or withdrawal persists beyond a few weeks, or significantly affects daily life, it’s important to seek support. A GP is always a good starting point.
Medibank health insurance members have access to 24/7 Mental Health Support – speak with a mental health professional by phone or online, any time of the day or night, at no extra cost. Call 1800 644 325 or chat online.
Medibank’s Mental Health Hub also offers resources, tools and support services to help Australians on their mental health journey. Visit medibank.com.au/mental-health.
If you or someone you know needs immediate support, contact 000 in an emergency or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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                                    <author>kate.goggins@medibank.com.au (Kate Goggins)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[ahm partners with RISING 2026 ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/ahm-partners-with-rising-2026</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[ahm is proud to be the major partner of RISING 2026, Melbourne's flagship winter arts, music and culture festival. ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[ahm is proud to be the major partner of RISING 2026, Melbourne's flagship winter arts, music and culture festival.
RISING is a festival built on individuality, creativity and curiosity. Through art, performance, dance and unexpected moments, it invites people to explore what resonates with them – celebrating the many different ways people express themselves and experience wellness. 
At the heart of the partnership is the ahm Oracle – a unique, immersive activation designed to help festivalgoers discover their perfect RISING experience.
Located outside the Arts Centre Melbourne Theatres Building, the ahm Oracle acts as a playful concierge, guiding visitors through intuitive, tarot-style readings. Rather than prescribing a festival itinerary, the Oracle invites people to follow their instincts, offering personalised recommendations based on who they are. Users of the Oracle may also be rewarded with prizes such as event tickets, vouchers to restaurants or mystical readings.
ahm’s Head of Marketing, Samantha McLeod, said the ahm x RISING partnership reflects a shared commitment to champion individuality and remind Australians that there is no single way to feel good – only what feels right for them.
“We’re really excited to partner with RISING because it champions individuality in such a bold and creative way,” said Ms McLeod.
“Some people find joy in late-night gigs, others in quiet installations – and we love that. Our recently launched ‘People Things’ campaign is a nod to those quirks and choices that make each person’s experience completely their own.
“The ahm Oracle is a fun and unexpected way to connect people with the festival. Rather than telling people what they should see, it invites them to follow their intuition – making the experience feel more meaningful, more personal and ultimately more enjoyable.”
RISING Brand and Commercial Director Nicole Smith says, “Art and wellbeing have more in common than people think – both are deeply personal, and neither comes with a rulebook. ahm gets that. A festival like RISING can feel overwhelming, there’s so much on offer, it’s hard to know where to start. Rather than adding to that noise, our partnership with ahm is about stripping back the jargon and meeting people where they are. The ahm Oracle is the perfect expression of that – a cosmic nudge to find your way in.”
To extend the experience beyond the physical activation, ahm is also launching the digital ahm Oracle. This short, intuitive quiz allows audiences to explore their ideal RISING experience ahead of the festival, based on who they are, rather than what they think they should choose.
Location of ahm Oracle:
Arts Centre Melbourne, Theatres Building. 100 St Kilda Rd, Southbank VIC 3004.
Dates:
Thursday 28 May – Sunday 7 June 2026
Times:
Thu 4 June – Fri 5 June 4:00pm – 8:00pm
Sat 6 June 1pm – 8:00pm
Sun 7 June 2:00pm – 6:00pm
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                                    <author>sharna.rhys-jones@medibank.com.au (Sharna Rhys-Jones)</author>
                                <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank retains Gold Status at AWEI Awards, celebrating progress in LGBTQIA+ inclusion]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-retains-gold-status-at-awei-awards-celebrating-progress-in-lgbtqia-inclusion</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank retains Gold Status at AWEI Awards, celebrating progress in LGBTQIA+ inclusion]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank has proudly maintained Gold Tier Employer Status at the 2026 Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Awards, marking another year of meaningful progress in supporting and uplifting LGBTQIA+ employees, customers, and communities.
Medibank Group Lead – Policy, Advocacy &amp; Reputation and Chair of Medibank’s Diversity &amp; Inclusion Council, Meaghan Telford, said the recognition reflects Medibank’s sustained commitment to inclusion and focus on deepening connections.
“For us, it’s more than just meeting benchmarks. We’ve focused on strengthening our internal community and building capability and lasting change across our organisation.”
Over the past year, Medibank has continued to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ voices are heard, celebrated and supported.
Key moments included celebrations of IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia), and Trans Awareness Week, which featured a session with Commissioner Joe Ball.
Strengthening our internal community
Ms Telford said that while earlier efforts centred on achieving AWEI criteria, Medibank has shifted focus toward deeper connections through its Rainbow Collective Builders.
“We’ve increased the frequency of Rainbow Collective catchups to create more space for informal connection and storytelling, alongside delivering professional development opportunities tailored to LGBTQIA+ employees,” she said.
Ms Telford also acknowledged those driving this work.
“Juan Campos and Reah Saunders – our Rainbow Collective co-leads, along with Dan George and the Rainbow Collective Builders, have been instrumental in strengthening our community and embedding inclusion into everyday experiences across the organisation.”
A moment of pride – and momentum for the future
This year, Medibank was also named a finalist for Trans and Gender Diverse Inclusion in the Workplace, recognising the company’s growing impact in this important area.
“We’re proud to have been recognised as a finalist and will continue to champion safety and equality for the trans and gender diverse communities,” Ms Telford said.
Medibank has also maintained its external partnerships, including sponsoring the Trans Gender Victoria Gender Revel Gala for the second consecutive year, supporting broader community visibility and advocacy.
Ms Telford emphasised that the work is ongoing and embedded.
“Maintaining Gold Status is not a one-off. The initiatives and improvements we’ve made are designed to be permanent, delivering real, measurable change for LGBTQIA+ employees and customers,” she said.
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                                    <author>dianne.wynne@medibank.com.au (Dianne Wynne)</author>
                                <pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 12:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank launches ‘All In’ Live Better Challenge for National Reconciliation Week]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-launches-all-in-live-better-challenge-for-national-reconciliation-week</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank launches ‘All In’ Live Better Challenge for National Reconciliation Week]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank is marking National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) by inviting customers to take meaningful action through a new Live Better challenge, inspired by this year’s theme, “All In”.
Medibank Group Lead, People, Spaces &amp; Sustainability, Kylie Bishop said the initiative was designed to support Australians to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, and perspectives through simple, everyday actions.
“Whether that’s reading, listening, attending events or engaging with community voices – it’s an opportunity for all of us to take action and be part of the change,” Ms Bishop said.
Launching in the My Medibank app on 1 June, the Live Better challenge is designed to make participation accessible and impactful, reinforcing the idea that even small steps can help build stronger connections and contribute to improved health and wellbeing.
Ms Bishop said the challenge reflected Medibank’s broader, ongoing commitment to reconciliation and aligned with the company’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
“Connection, understanding, and respect are essential to the wellbeing of all people in Australia. And it starts with listening, learning and acting, together.”
Throughout the week, Medibank will also share reconciliation-focused messaging across its retail network, to spark conversation and encourage participation among customers and communities.
“We’re encouraging everyone to get involved, highlighting that reconciliation is a shared responsibility,” Ms Bishop said.
Visit our website for more information about our Live Better challenges.
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                                    <author>dianne.wynne@medibank.com.au (Dianne Wynne)</author>
                                <pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank teams up with AFL’s Spud’s Game to drive action on mental health]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-teams-up-with-afls-spuds-game-to-drive-action-on-mental-health</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank joins Spud’s Game as the official health partner, building on its commitment to improve the mental health and wellbeing of Australians.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank today announced it will join Spud’s Game – the AFL and St Kilda Football Club’s marquee mental health awareness match – as the official health partner, building on its commitment to improve the mental health and wellbeing of Australians.
Spud’s Game, played annually since 2021 in honour of club legend Danny “Spud” Frawley, has become a powerful national platform that has sparked conversations about mental health, helped reduce stigma and encouraged people to seek support.
Medibank Chief Executive Officer David Koczkar said today’s announcement reflects Medibank’s commitment to improve mental health outcomes across Australia.
“As one of Australia’s largest health companies, we see the human cost of the escalating mental health crisis and want to play a meaningful part of the solution,” Mr Koczkar said.
“At Medibank, we believe mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness and we’re proud to support Spud’s Game that brings communities together around such an important cause, as almost half of us will face mental ill-health at some point in our life.
“Everyone involved in Spud’s Game - the AFL, St Kilda Football Club, the Danny Frawley Community, Black Dog Institute and Medibank - all share a deep commitment to improve mental health, reduce stigma and help Australians feel supported, connected and confident to seek help.
“Together, we’re working towards the same goal – making mental health and wellbeing a priority for every Australian and ensuring no one feels they have to go through challenges alone.”
As an official health partner of the AFLW over the past two years, Medibank is also thrilled that Spud’s Game this year coincides with the first AFL and AFLW double-header round and officially launching the AFLW season in 2026.
St Kilda Football Club CEO Carl Dilena said: “Spud’s Game has become one of the most important and powerful mental health initiatives in Australian sport, and in 2026 we’re incredibly proud to take it to another level alongside the Danny Frawley Community, Black Dog Institute, AFL, AFLW and our new partner Medibank.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Medibank as our Official Health Partner for Spud’s Game 6. Their genuine commitment to preventative mental health and community wellbeing aligns strongly with what we’re building, and we look forward to working together to make this year’s campaign bigger and more impactful than ever before.”
The partnership builds on Medibank’s recently announced $50 million additional investment in mental health, which is focused on prevention, early intervention and improving access to support for Australians.
As part of that announcement, Medibank announced it was collaborating with mental health organisations, including Black Dog, to work together to find solutions.
In 2024, Medibank announced a three-year partnership as an official health partner of the AFLW.
Spud’s Game will be played at Marvel Stadium on Sunday 9 August, starting with AFLW game St Kilda Saints v Carlton Blues at 4.35pm then the AFL St Kilda Saints vs Carlton Blues at 7.20pm.
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                                    <author>sharna.rhys-jones@medibank.com.au (Sharna Rhys-Jones)</author>
                                <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 13:30:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[FY26 Full Year Key Dates]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/fy26-full-year-key-dates</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank Private Limited (ASX: MPL) announces key dates in relation to the year ending 30 June 2026. ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank Private Limited (ASX: MPL) announces key dates in relation to the year ending 30 June 2026.
2026 Full Year Results Announcement: Thursday 20 August 2026
Following the release of the results, Medibank will hold a teleconference and webcast briefing for investors and analysts at 9:30am Melbourne time on Thursday 20 August 2026. The briefing will be delivered by David Koczkar, Chief Executive Officer and Mark Rogers, Group Lead – Chief Financial Officer &amp; Group Strategy.
A link to the webcast briefing will be made available via Medibank’s Investor Centre:
http://www.medibank.com.au/about/investor-centre/results-reports/
2026 Final Dividend Payment Dates*
Ex-dividend Date: Wednesday 2 September 2026
Record Date: Thursday 3 September 2026
Payment Date: Thursday 8 October 2026
*Dates are subject to change and any change will be notified to the ASX.
2026 Annual General Meeting Date: Wednesday 18 November 2026
Last date for director nominations (by 5pm): Monday 14 September 2026
This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board.
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                                    <author>emily.ritchie@medibank.com.au (Emily Ritchie)</author>
                                <pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 08:35:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank among Australia’s top 100 taxpayers, paying $471.4 million in taxes and levies ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-among-australias-top-100-taxpayers-paying-471-4-million-in-taxes-and-levies</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank continues to contribute to Australia’s public finances, paying $471.4 million in taxes and levies in the 2025 financial year (FY25). The health company continues to rank among Australia’s top 100 corporate taxpayers. ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank continues to contribute to Australia’s public finances, paying $471.4 million in taxes and levies in the 2025 financial year (FY25). The health company continues to rank among Australia’s top 100 corporate taxpayers.
All tax payments were made in Australia, reflecting the fact that Medibank’s operations are entirely domestically based.
Medibank’s effective tax rate of 30.1% in FY25 demonstrates its ongoing commitment to responsible tax practices and to paying its fair share.
For a 10th year in a row, Medibank has released its annual Tax Report, outlining how it approaches tax, governs it, and contributes to Australia’s public finances. The report is prepared in line with the Australian Government’s Voluntary Tax Transparency Code.
“We continue to take a responsible and fair approach to taxation, refraining from tax avoidance practices or aggressive tax strategies,” said Medibank Group Executive – Chief Financial Officer &amp; Group Strategy Mark Rogers.
“Our FY25 effective tax rate of 30.1% reflects our commitment to transparency and to making a meaningful contribution to Australia’s public finances.”
The Tax Report provides detailed information on Medibank’s:

Tax governance and strategy
Income tax disclosures
Tax contributions to Australian revenue authorities

Medibank has voluntarily reported under the Tax Transparency Code for a decade, supporting greater corporate accountability and public trust through clear and consistent disclosure.
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                                    <author>juliet.williams@medibank.com.au (Juliet Williams)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 09:22:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Loneliness in early motherhood: A national health issue]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/loneliness-in-early-motherhood-a-national-health-issue</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[A new national report by Medibank and Women’s Agenda reveals widespread loneliness among Australian mothers, highlighting major gaps in connection, support and early intervention during one of life’s most critical transitions.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank, in partnership with Women’s Agenda, has launched The Motherhood Index, a new national report examining the lived experience of loneliness and connection during early motherhood in Australia.
Drawing on national survey data and qualitative insights from mothers across the country, the Index explores how connection, support and social design affect maternal mental and physical health during the early years of parenting.
Developed by Women’s Agenda in partnership with Medibank, the research identifies where mothers feel supported—and where critical gaps in care and connection remain.
Key findings from The Motherhood Index
The Index reveals that loneliness is not an exception but a widespread, structural issue:
Loneliness is the norm

73% of mothers feel lonely at least a few times each month
60% describe the transition to motherhood as lonely
Almost 98% have experienced loneliness since having children

The ‘village’ is missing

Only 38% of mothers feel part of a supportive village
Most support comes from partners and informal networks

Significant mental health impacts

39% report postnatal anxiety and/or depression
Loneliness increases risk and reduces help seeking

Everyday spaces aren’t designed for connection

Parks and playgrounds are the most visited public spaces
Only 5% of mothers form genuine friendships there

These findings highlight how social environments designed for children often fail to meet the social needs of adults, reinforcing isolation rather than connection.
Giving voice to a quiet experience
Speaking at the report’s launch, Medibank Group Lead – Policy, Advocacy and Reputation, Meaghan Telford, said the Index is about more than data – it is about giving voice to an experience many mothers carry quietly.
“Today isn’t just about launching a report. It’s about naming something many people feel but still find difficult to talk about: loneliness.”
The Motherhood Connection Survey, which underpins the Index, found that nearly three quarters of mothers experience loneliness at least monthly. Yet social expectations that motherhood should be “the happiest time of your life” often silence those who are struggling.
As a result, many women minimise their feelings or carry them alone, fearing judgment or stigma.
Loneliness as a preventative health risk
Medibank Group Medical Director, Dr Shona Sundaraj, emphasised that loneliness is not just an emotional issue – it is a recognised risk factor for poor health outcomes.
“Loneliness isn’t just an emotional experience, it’s a recognised risk factor for both mental and physical health, and its impacts can be particularly profound during periods of transition like early parenthood.”
She added that loneliness and isolation can compound risk by reducing confidence, motivation and energy, making everyday behaviours such as exercise and social participation harder.
“This reduced participation can negatively impact physical health and reinforce ongoing isolation.”
A preventative health imperative
The report forms part of Medibank’s broader commitment to addressing loneliness as a preventative health issue.
Medibank’s 2030 Vision is to create the best health and wellbeing for Australia, not only its 4.2 million customers. A core focus is supporting people earlier, particularly during critical life stages where connection and care matter most.
“Becoming a mother is one of those moments,” Ms Telford said.
In 2020, Medibank made a 10 year commitment to addressing loneliness, recognising its long term impact on population health. The Motherhood Index is a key pillar of that strategy.
Lived experience at the centre
Ms Telford also reflected on her own experience as a mother of three, including welcoming twins during the COVID pandemic – a period marked by both joy and isolation.
“It’s an experience many of us have lived ourselves, or witnessed closely in those we love.”
This emphasis on lived experience is central to the Index, recognising that solutions must be grounded in the realities of modern motherhood.
A shared responsibility
Supporting mothers is not a peripheral issue in healthcare – it is foundational
to family, community and generational wellbeing.
Addressing loneliness requires coordinated action across healthcare system, workplaces, policy settings, community and local services.
Ms Telford called on leaders, clinicians, organisations and advocates to:

design services that prioritise connection
shape policies reflecting contemporary motherhood
create cultures where mothers can speak honestly and without stigma

“When we get this right, we don’t just improve outcomes – we change lives.”
Read the full Motherhood Index report here.
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                                    <author>dianne.wynne@medibank.com.au (Dianne Wynne)</author>
                                <pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 15:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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