<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/">
    <channel>
        <title>Medibank Newsroom</title>
        <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/</link>
        <description>Medibank Newsroom RSS Feed</description>
        <atom:link href="https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <language>en</language>
        <lastBuildDate>Sun, 24 May 2026 12:36:05 +1000</lastBuildDate>
                    <item>
                <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>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-teams-up-with-afls-spuds-game-to-drive-action-on-mental-health</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/5AA6zyVGp8jQ3ktQOYuW6a/540ca74a6d4b125e625d77ff06aa6416/Spud-s_Game_Launch.jpeg" length="569006" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <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.
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>sharna.rhys-jones@medibank.com.au (Sharna Rhys-Jones)</author>
                                <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 13:30:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[FY26 Full Year Key Dates]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/fy26-full-year-key-dates</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/fy26-full-year-key-dates</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/4u9UDdwxjH0PVZbx64b9gO/b7284326f9f321cb6df6e6e564963263/Medibank_LOGO.jpg" length="8759181" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <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.
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>emily.ritchie@medibank.com.au (Emily Ritchie)</author>
                                <pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 08:35:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <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>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-among-australias-top-100-taxpayers-paying-471-4-million-in-taxes-and-levies</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/ryyZs18GIw2orBSINRqH6/e288b5e3ddaf5faab8c04a5811e100ab/Medibank_Tax_Report_2025.jpg" length="148116" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <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.
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>juliet.williams@medibank.com.au (Juliet Williams)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 09:22:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <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>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/loneliness-in-early-motherhood-a-national-health-issue</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/4jACRpVMj2IgvNppjSGoIm/911d18e798b6cd61929080502103f837/AHO08982.JPG" length="2490368" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <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.
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>dianne.wynne@medibank.com.au (Dianne Wynne)</author>
                                <pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 15:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Medibank shares business update and customer insights]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-shares-business-update-and-customer-insights</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-shares-business-update-and-customer-insights</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/6D9FrUMpJ6qC8O0iQI0IWa/327bf3243821cff7c950606f9739de91/medibank_logo.jpg" length="23680" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank will this week attend the 2026 Macquarie Australia Conference where group executives will meet  with investors and analysts.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank will this week attend the 2026 Macquarie Australia Conference where group executives will meet with investors and analysts and share the update and insights below.
Key points:

The resident PHI industry continues to grow and evolve
Performance in Resident PHI supported by improved Medibank brand growth
Delivering meaningful and measurable customer value
Maintaining discipline through economic cycles supporting sustainable growth
Momentum continues across multiple growth avenues
Ongoing business resilience with limited direct exposure to global events and volatility
No change to FY26 outlook

The resident PHI industry continues to grow and evolve
APRA’s quarterly resident Private Health Insurance (PHI) statistics show industry growth of 2.1% in the 12 months to 31 December 2025 (2.3% growth in 12 months to 31 December 2024).
While growth has moderated slightly as expected, increasing participation among younger cohorts continues to support ongoing affordability and long-term industry sustainability.
Industry data also suggests consumers are increasingly prioritising value, reflected by the shift toward lower premium products with reduced levels of cover. Consistent with this trend, hospital claims utilisation has remained soft, while hospital health cost inflation has continued to rise.
The competitive landscape has intensified over recent months with some participants leading with price led customer propositions to drive short-term volume growth, while some aggregator platforms continue to prioritise short-term profit, risking the erosion of customer value.
These dynamics highlight a growing but evolving industry as shifting consumer behaviour continues to influence the sector response.
Performance in resident PHI supported by Medibank brand performance
Momentum in Medibank’s resident business continues with policyholder growth of 22.4k in the 9 months to 31 March 2026 (or 1.1% YTD), 25% higher than the same period in FY25 and includes 9.4k policyholders in the Medibank brand.
Medibank’s 3Q26 claims are consistent with recent industry trends, albeit with ongoing benefits from a proactive approach to claims management.
Medibank continues to support Australia’s health transition through partnership-based funding models with private hospitals that improve access to high-quality, personalised care. These agreements align incentives to drive better outcomes, affordability and sustainability, while accelerating care delivery in virtual, community and home-based settings. In the 9 months to 31 March 2026, $39.3 million has been paid under partnership initiatives (including variable indexation, milestone, and initiative support payments).
Delivering meaningful and measurable customer value
Value, affordability and choice in health have become increasingly important for customers in the context of higher fuel prices, rising interest rates and recent changes to health insurance premiums.
Medibank continues to place customers at the centre of its strategy, investing in tangible customer value. This includes extending unused annual extras limits for eligible ahm customers for the fifth consecutive year, while in 3Q26 Medibank customers saved $78 million in out-of-pocket costs through Members’ Choice networks and received $9 million in rewards through the Live Better program.
Furthermore, one in every five Medibank-funded joint replacements in Melbourne and Sydney are now delivered through a no-gap hospital, further demonstrating Medibank’s differentiated approach to customer experience, combining access, affordability and quality of care.
Maintaining discipline through economic cycles supporting sustainable growth
Prior cycles demonstrate that in periods of economic pressure, consumers prioritise retaining private health insurance, seek greater value from their cover and may change the way they utilise healthcare.
Medibank’s strategy and aspiration to grow market share in resident PHI remains unchanged, noting that the fourth quarter typically sees the highest industry volume growth, the Group will continue to take a disciplined approach, targeting priority segments through direct channels, with an ongoing focus on customer retention. Consistent with this approach, ahm brand presence on aggregator platforms is currently being intentionally reduced with a continued focus on sustainable growth.
While no new material trends have emerged in 2026, Medibank will continue to monitor utilisation given historic behaviour and competitor activity as we remain disciplined.
Non-resident growth supported by strong acquisition and lifecycle management
Strong acquisition growth in both the student and worker segments saw non-resident policy units increase by 8.1k during 3Q26. Growth continues to reflect improved lifecycle management and a greater focus on direct and digital acquisitions, supported by the launch of new products.
Medibank remains well positioned for further growth in this segment due to strong university based partnerships and higher national planning levels for overseas students in 2026.
Medibank Health growth driven by volumes, new services and acquisitions
Strong growth continues across all three segments in Medibank Health with third quarter year to date operating profit c. 30% higher than the same period for FY25.
Momentum in primary care continues, with the Better Medical integration progressing as planned, supporting the scalable rollout of the Group’s primary care model, including the extension of the virtual GP program to Medibank resident customers in 2Q26.
Momentum also extends beyond primary care, as scale is built across the continuum of care, including community based services, acute home health and no gap models. A new Amplar Health delivered transition care service was launched in 3Q26 in partnership with Central Adelaide Local Health Network.
While recent Medicare bulk billing reforms support affordability and volume growth, further system reform is required to sustainably scale proactive care and address structural challenges across the health system. Medibank remains well positioned to augment organic growth with further M&amp;A and continue to consider opportunities consistent with the Group’s growth strategy.
Ongoing business resilience with limited direct exposure to global volatility
Medibank has proven growth through cycles, delivered customer and shareholder value, while navigating complex regulatory, industry and macro headwinds, underpinned by disciplined cost and capital management.
Medibank’s operating businesses are not expected to be directly impacted by global events and volatility. The Group’s primary financial exposure is through our investment portfolio, which includes approximately $188 million* invested in domestic and international equities, and through movements in the RBA cash rate, where a 25 basis point movement has an approximately $7 million annual impact to investment income.
There is no change to Medibank’s FY26 outlook.
*As at 31 December 2025
This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>emily.ritchie@medibank.com.au (Emily Ritchie)</author>
                                <pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 07:35:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[New step down service welcomes first patients ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/new-step-down-service-welcomes-first-patients</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/new-step-down-service-welcomes-first-patients</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/2DH4pLtgBKVNdCI7GPnoFu/2503501634bc1c54fbae4b6ddf44debe/Blair_Boyer_MP.jpg" length="41839" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <description><![CDATA[The first patients have been welcomed to South Australia's new step-down healthcare service delivered by Amplar Health]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[The first patients have been welcomed to the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) step-down healthcare service at College Grove in Walkerville, with 10 beds providing immediate care for patients who no longer need to remain in hospital.
The CALHN step-down healthcare model is a collaboration between CALHN and   Amplar Health. In the first phase of the 50-step-down beds, 10 beds are now providing intermediate care.
Those using the services are often facing external barriers to return to community living such as awaiting aged care placements, needing convalescent care, National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) planning or pre-and-post-operative care. It offers a structured, supportive environment for gradual transition back to the community following a hospital stay, providing appropriate care outside of a hospital setting, ensuring the right support matches the patient's needs. Importantly – it frees up hospital beds.
South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing,  Blair Boyer said,

Our hospitals are under enormous pressure, and we need to do things differently. Alternative models of care are crucial to provide a high-quality public health system for the 21st century.

“We are making sure hospital beds are available for patients who truly need acute care, while supporting others to recover in a more appropriate setting. By improving patient flow, we’re strengthening the entire health system and helping reduce pressure on emergency departments.”
Amplar Health Home Hospital, Hub Lead and Chief Executive, Sarah McRae added, “Australia’s health system is undergoing a significant transition, and services like College Grove reflect the smarter, more flexible models of care needed to meet that change.”

We’re proud to partner with SA Health to deliver a service that not only improves patient flow, but ensures people receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time. We hope to see more jurisdictions across the country follow this lead, embracing innovative step-down models that ease pressure on hospitals while delivering high quality, patient-centred care in more appropriate settings.

]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>alice.ross@medibank.com.au (Alice Ross)</author>
                                <pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 14:38:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Don’t miss a beat for women’s heart health]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/dont-miss-a-beat-for-womens-heart-health</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/dont-miss-a-beat-for-womens-heart-health</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/4kTf1vm56scPbG47SVgnyi/bc288ad2d0e316a524b39b254517d0f4/Don-t_Miss_a_Beat_-_Female_manikin.jpg" length="761910" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank has helped launch ‘Don’t Miss a Beat’, a campaign highlighting the importance of understanding how sex and gender differences in heart health can save lives.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[In an Australian first, data that highlight the difference in the prevalence and community response to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest based on sex is now publicly available.
Only one in 10 people survive sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Victoria, despite the state having the second-best survival rate in the world.
In its 10th year of operation, Women’s Health Victoria’s Women’s Health Atlas has, for the first time, published data from Ambulance Victoria that highlight persistent gaps which impact women’s survival rates.
Women’s Health Victoria Chief Executive Officer Sally Hasler said that the data highlight the importance of understanding how sex and gender differences in heart health can save lives.
“The general understanding about cardiac health comes from research and practice based on male bodies, and it may be costing women their lives,” Ms Hasler said.
“At key points, we are missing opportunities that could save women’s lives by better understanding women’s heart health, and responding with timely CPR and defibrillation when a cardiac arrest occurs.
“Knowing this, Women’s Health Victoria is proud to be working with Ambulance Victoria, St John Ambulance Victoria, Monash University and Medibank on three new initiatives to save lives,” she said.
Ambulance Victoria Paramedic and Director of the Centre for Research and Evaluation A/Professor Ziad Nehme said paramedics attended more than 36,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests from 2020 to 2024.
“Only one in 10 Victorians survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, but Ambulance Victoria data show community education about the importance of CPR leads to earlier intervention by bystanders, which we know has a marked impact on cardiac arrest survival,” A/Professor Nehme said.
“Victoria’s internationally comparable witnessed cardiac arrest survival rate (Utstein) has risen to 44.4 per cent, a nation-leading figure and second only to Denmark (50.2 per cent) worldwide.
“When a patient receives early bystander intervention through CPR and shocks from a defibrillator before paramedics arrive, their chances of survival more than double.
“Ambulance Victoria data shows that in the five years from 2020 to 2024 the percentage of cases with a shockable rhythm was almost twice as high for men (13.1%) compared with women (6.8%),” he said.
“Men are also three times more likely to receive defibrillation than women. This may be because men are more likely to experience cardiac arrest in a public place and that can significantly increase their chance of survival, but we also know that bystanders can be hesitant to help when the patient is a woman.
“What this data makes visible is that women and men are not equally likely to receive bystander CPR or defibrillation, and that’s something these initiatives need to address,” A/Professor Nehme said.
St John Ambulance Victoria Chief Executive Officer Gordon Botwright said building skills and confidence to act is one of the most powerful ways to save lives in the critical minutes before paramedics arrive.
“We are working with Women’s Health Victoria to examine and update CPR training so it explicitly addresses sex-based barriers, normalises appropriate CPR on women and girls, and builds skills and confidence for bystanders to act without delay,” Mr Botwright said.
“This is about gender responsive training that reflects real bodies and real emergencies, so everyone has the best possible chance of survival.”
Monash University’s Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation Professor Cassandra Szoeke said there is also a clear need for better education for health professionals on sex differences in cardiovascular risk, symptoms, investigation and management to avoid cardiac arrest.
“We are building Australia’s first sex specific, co designed cardiovascular professional develop program to equip clinicians with evidence-based training to better recognise, investigate and manage heart disease in women,” Professor Szoeke said.
“The project will develop a practical, accredited learning module that will support clinicians to identify female specific cardiovascular risks and common presentations, and to apply sex specific prevention and management.
“It’s not just theoretical, as the module will focus on real world decisions - what to look for, what to test, when to refer - and will be designed for immediate practical clinical application.
“The new national sex-specific education program with the highest levels of evidence will upskill Australian health professionals, improving health outcomes for women, thanks to funding from the Medibank Better Health Research Hub and the real world experiences of clinicians and women. It will be linked to the Australian Medical Association (AMA) CPD Program,” she said.
Medibank Group Medical Director Dr Shona Sundaraj said closing the knowledge and confidence gap can save lives.
“It’s 2026, and heart disease in women in Australia is still not adequately recognised or diagnosed,” Dr Sundaraj said.
“During my GP training, differences in how men and women present with heart disease was not part of the conversation. It’s only once you start practising that it becomes clear that women can experience cardiac issues in many different and often overlooked ways.
“Medibank is proud to support Australia’s first cardiovascular education module focused specifically on women.
“Good heart health is not just about lifestyle choices. It also comes from regular heart checks and early intervention from health professionals who understand what to look for – regardless of your sex or gender,” she said.
Ms Hasler said Women’s Health Victoria was proud to partner with Ambulance Victoria, St John Ambulance Victoria, the Monash University Centre for Health Research and Implementation, and Medibank to embark on the three projects to address sex and gender in one of Australia’s leading causes of death.
“A cardiac arrest can happen to anybody at any time.
“These partnerships mean that at every point Victorians will be better equipped to intervene and ensure we don’t miss a beat when it comes to women’s heart health,” she said.
Originally published at https://www.whv.org.au/media-hub/dont-miss-a-beat-for-womens-heart-health on 23 April 2026.
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>juliet.williams@medibank.com.au (Juliet Williams)</author>
                                <pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:45:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[New GP care model cuts hospital risk by 30% in Western Sydney ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/new-gp-care-model-cuts-hospital-risk-by-30-in-western-sydney</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/new-gp-care-model-cuts-hospital-risk-by-30-in-western-sydney</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/4lDCgvjLA47T21GOyPrNXg/7e3c3997c41e11bfa6ffb0bc0d1468d5/Myhealth.jpg" length="241008" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <description><![CDATA[Innovative pilot shows multidisciplinary teams boost patient outcomes, increase access and free up GP capacity  ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[A pilot led by one of Australia’s largest GP networks is delivering strong early results for patients and GPs in Western Sydney.
The $3 million pilot – funded by Medibank and delivered across three Myhealth clinics in Parramatta, Auburn and Macarthur Square – is one of the first in Australia to quantify the health and economic benefits of a multidisciplinary model in primary care.
Under the approach, patient care extends beyond the GP to a team of nurses, mental health clinicians, social workers and pharmacists.
High-risk patients at the Myhealth clinics are comprehensively assessed, with care plans tailored to their specific risks and health needs.
A multidisciplinary team then works collaboratively in a structured model, combining their expertise to deliver coordinated, high-quality care and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Key results


30% of patients reduced their risk of hospitalisation score (based on the CSIRO risk prediction tool)


57% of patients reported improved overall health and wellbeing


All GPs reported they have been able to work to the full extent of their scope of practice and feel more supported in their role and are able to be more proactive in the care they provide.


Improved uptake of preventative vaccinations and screenings
Shingles vaccinations up 30%
Pneumococcal vaccinations up 9%
Cancer screening (cervical, breast and bowel) and bone density checks up by 5%


Myhealth Chief Medical Officer and clinical lead for the pilot Dr Mohammed Hasan said the findings highlight the benefits of shifting to proactive, team-based care for patients with chronic and complex health needs.
“We set out to understand how a team-based approach to care could help patients to stay as healthy as possible and reduce their risk of hospitalisation. The early results are promising.  We’re seeing better outcomes with more coordinated care and a meaningful reduction in hospital risk scores,” Dr Hasan said.
“Having a broader care team means patients receive more wraparound support – care that might otherwise require multiple clinic visits or referral to another service.&quot;

It helps streamline patient flow and gives GPs more time to focus on providing care that matters most, rather than on administration.  It also gives our healthcare teams the opportunity to work to their full scope, using their skills and training where they can make the biggest difference.

Medibank has shared the findings with the Federal Government, which is investing to reform the primary care system and improve the health of Australians.
In its pre-budget submission, Medibank highlights potential savings of at least $23 million to the health system from avoidable hospitalisations if the pilot was increased to 20,000 patients.
The results support the latest data from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners that shows the vast majority of GPs (84%) agree that multidisciplinary teams improve patient outcomes, with 2 in 3 wanting to do more multidisciplinary team care.
“This model has the potential to scale nationally – supporting patients, supporting GPs and making our healthcare system more sustainable,” Dr Hasan said.
Amplar Health Chief Executive Rob Read said the pilot results reinforce the vital role of proactive care in driving Australia’s health transition forward.
“Rates of chronic disease continue to rise, even though around one‑third of these conditions are preventable,” Mr Read said.

Team‑based care is essential to Australia’s health transition.  We’re reviewing these findings across our own GP network and will continue to share them with government and the wider sector, given the potential benefits for patients, clinicians and the broader health system.

The pilot is being independently evaluated by Macquarie University with funding support from the Medibank Better Health Research Hub.
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>alice.ross@medibank.com.au (Alice Ross)</author>
                                <pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:30:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[An extra year for ahm customers to use their unused routine dental annual limits ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/an-extra-year-for-ahm-customers-to-use-their-unused-routine-dental-annual-limits</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/an-extra-year-for-ahm-customers-to-use-their-unused-routine-dental-annual-limits</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/3nFE1G2KautDL5ertHG18W/0cfa538871bd7780759502299acb0103/ahm_dental_LRO_pic_-_April_2026.jpg" length="23922" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <description><![CDATA[An extra year for ahm customers to use their unused routine dental annual limits ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[For the fifth year in a row, ahm health insurance customers with extras cover will be able to use their unused routine dental annual limits for another year, giving customers more reasons to smile. 
The rollover of their unused routine dental limits will be automatically applied for eligible customers on 1 July 2026. New customers joining on extras cover by 30 June 2026 will also be eligible for the rollover.
ahm Senior Executive Rene Rached said the rollover will give customers more time to make the most of their dental annual limits and be proactive about their oral health.
“Dental is one of the main reasons why customers choose to get extras cover, so we’re pleased to be extending the time to use routine dental limits and deliver even more value for our customers,” he said.
“We also know that every dollar counts now, with cost-of-living pressures continuing to be felt by Australians due to rising inflation, interest rates and fuel prices.
“Routine dental can really add up throughout the year, so this will help our customers get as much value out of their cover as possible.”
Further information:

Service limits on applicable products (e.g. 2 dental check-ups for financial year) will continue to apply. Waiting periods for routine dental will also apply if these have not yet been served.
Unclaimed routine dental annual limits from the 2025/2026 financial year will be rolled over into the new financial year, however any unused annual limits rolled over from the 2024/2025 financial year will not be included.
Any ahm customer with extras cover at 30 June 2026 will be eligible for this rollover. When changing to different extras cover after 30 June 2026, the routine dental limit rollover will not apply to the new extras cover.
Rolled over annual limits will be available for viewing online by 1 July 2026.
Routine dental includes things like scale and cleans, fillings, extractions and mouthguards.

For more information, see ahm.com.au/explained/limits-rollover.
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>sharna.rhys-jones@medibank.com.au (Sharna Rhys-Jones)</author>
                                <pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Medibank named Australia’s best place to work | AFR BOSS 2026]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-named-australias-best-place-to-work-or-afr-boss-2026</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-named-australias-best-place-to-work-or-afr-boss-2026</guid>
                                    <enclosure url="https://images.ctfassets.net/ciqrdyatmy1u/3s7ztYJauFDB58p7wJqMQ2/9fe0af414ba0d34f86581d4be4f29bad/AFR_Best_places_to_work_2026.jpg" length="911866" type="image/jpeg"></enclosure>
                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank has been named Australia’s best place to work at the 2026 AFR BOSS Awards, recognised for flexible work, employee wellbeing and future of work innovation.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank has been named the best place to work in Australia, taking out the top honour at the 2026 Financial Review BOSS Best Places to Work Awards.
The recognition reflects Medibank’s bold reimagining of how work gets done, prioritising flexibility, autonomy and wellbeing to create a workplace where people can do their best work in a sustainable and meaningful way.
Medibank Group Lead – People, Spaces &amp; Sustainability Kylie Bishop said:
“We’ve been focused on creating the healthiest workplace in Australia, rethinking the way we work, removing friction, and building an environment where people can do their best work in a sustainable way.
“Because when people feel well and supported, they show up differently. And that flows through to how we care for our customers and patients,” Ms Bishop said.
At the centre of Medibank’s approach is its ambition to be the healthiest workplace in Australia by 2030.
“We’re giving our people greater flexibility and autonomy to fundamentally change the way they work so they can stay sustainably engaged in delivering for customers and patients, while enjoying greater health and wellbeing.
“Our goal is to improve the health and wellbeing of our people and create a sustainable work environment that strengthens engagement and how we support customers and patients. Flexibility and autonomy are key to that,” Ms Bishop said.
This ambition underpins work. reinvented, Medibank’s movement to reshape traditional workplace norms and enable healthier, more joyful and creative ways of working.
“Our Four Day Work Week experiment is one example of how we’re challenging traditional workplace norms to drive greater flexibility and autonomy.”
Across the organisation, teams are experimenting with new work models designed to deliver better outcomes for both employees and customers.
“In our home health business, we’re experimenting with self-managed teams that own their patient caseloads, rather than relying on centralised rostering. It’s reducing travel time and improving both patient and employee satisfaction,” Ms Bishop said.
And following a successful pilot, Medibank also reorganised our customer support and Amplar Home Health teams into geographically based hubs, empowering teams to deliver more personalised, end to end support.
Customers are now supported by team members who live and work locally, while customer support employees who were previously 100 per cent call centre based can now work in retail stores. At the same time, retail teams have unlocked the flexibility to work from home, expanding choice and autonomy across the workforce.
Since the launch of work. reinvented, Medibank has seen a tremendous shift in both the way work is done and how people experience work.
“The organisation has adopted an experimentation mindset, unlocking new value and innovation in support of our 2030 vision. Employee engagement has reached its highest levels since March 2021 and equally, turnover is also at its lowest levels. In addition to this, we have seen a positive improvement in talent attraction. The perception of health, safety and wellbeing being a priority within teams remains strong, and in the top quartile of Health &amp; Wellbeing against an external global benchmark,” Ms Bishop said.
The award underscores Medibank’s leadership in creating a future focused, people centred workplace – one that delivers healthier outcomes for employees, customers and communities.
Keen to get involved and grow your career? Join us in creating the healthiest workplace in Australia!
Medibank Careers
]]></content:encoded>
                                    <author>dianne.wynne@medibank.com.au (Dianne Wynne)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
            </item>
            </channel>
</rss>