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        <title>Medibank Newsroom</title>
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                <title><![CDATA[Fifty years of our modern health system and the green card that changed Australia]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/fifty-years-of-our-modern-health-system-and-the-green-card-that-changed-australia</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[As the Medibank Group turned 50 on 1 October 2026, its story overlaps with Medicare, the creation of our modern health system and the way Australians think about illness and wellbeing.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[As the Medibank Group turned 50 on 1 October 2026, its story overlaps with Medicare, the creation of our modern health system and the way Australians think about illness and wellbeing.
For many Australians, the green Medicare card is simply part of life. It’s tucked away in wallets, hidden in drawers or forgotten about until someone asks to see it – often without a second thought.
Yet few pieces of plastic have done more to shape modern Australia. Behind it sits a simple but powerful idea: that people across Australia should be able to access healthcare when they need it, from the mundane to the life-threatening, regardless of their circumstances.
Its history is intertwined with Medibank's own story. It’s why this 50-year story matters. Medibank was one of the most significant social reforms of the post-war era, and a coalition of powerful interests fought to stop it.
The Senate blocked the original bills before a joint sitting pushed them through, enabling the Whitlam government to launch the new scheme on 1 July 1975.
It took real nerve to build something that ambitious with so much lined up against it.
The Fraser government then changed the model, adding a levy and giving more space to private cover.
With this, the government established Medibank Private on 1 October 1976, marking the beginning of our own distinct journey within Australia's health system.
The Hawke government brought universal cover back in 1984 under a new name, Medicare, while Medibank Private continued on its path before it was corporatised in 1997 and listed on the ASX in 2014.
Over the past half-century, a lot has changed, with demand for services shifting in response to demographic trends and evolving consumer needs and expectations. Today, Australia’s health system is one of the best in the world, but it’s under pressure.
Since 1976, Australia’s population has nearly doubled from 14 million to 27.8 million, with the proportion aged 65 and over jumping from 9 per cent to 17 per cent.
Fifty years ago, Australians were more likely to die prematurely from cardiovascular disease and injury, driven by high smoking rates and lower safety standards.
Today, people in Australia are living around 11 years longer compared to 1976. Yet a greater proportion of those extra years are spent in ill health, with around 60 per cent of adults living with at least one chronic condition, while rates of mental ill health have also increased substantially.
Dementia has now overtaken heart disease as Australia’s leading cause of death, illustrating a broader shift from acute illness to long-term, age-related conditions.
Artificial intelligence may be the next big shift, with the potential to change how disease is prevented, diagnosed and treated. But we cannot assume that AI will always act in a patient’s interest. Left unchecked, the algorithm will follow the money, creating a real risk that people will be taken advantage of when they are at their most vulnerable.
In health, AI must be safe, accountable and designed around what is best for each person’s health. Healthcare is fundamentally human. Technology should strengthen that, not replace it.
While technology will be part of the solution, it will not resolve the pressure building across the system on its own.
Today, under the Medibank and ahm brands, Medibank offers private cover in a competitive environment. People value the choice and shorter waits it offers, but they feel every premium rise.
Medicare is about universal access and the idea that adequate healthcare should not depend on your personal wealth. It’s the system’s safety net.
It’s the dynamic balance at the heart of Australian health, and this is where the two anniversaries meet.
Independent modelling estimates privately funded hospital activity delivered a net benefit of about $836 billion over 50 years in 2026 dollars.
The model counts about 100 million avoided public hospital visits, 318 million public bed-days saved over 50 years, as well as almost 28,000 equivalent public beds freed in the latest year.
These are modelled estimates, not cash in a bank account.
But the message is clear. Private health has helped Medicare by expanding system capacity, absorbing demand for elective surgery, supporting workforce development and accelerating the adoption of innovations such as day surgery and virtual care.
Yet pressure on both the public and private systems continues to build, even as health spending rises.
But the problem isn’t so much how much we spend as where. Most of our health dollars go to treating people once they’re unwell. We’ve built a hospital-based sick care system, when the biggest gains are in prevention, primary care and care in people’s homes.
Given our current needs in health, care today is more about helping people avoid or live with complex conditions. This takes care that’s connected, with the GP, specialist, hospital, pharmacist, physiotherapist and psychologist working from the same picture instead of leaving patients to join the dots.
For households, the debate in health right now is more basic. Will the GP bulk bill? How big is the out-of-pocket at the specialist? Can dad get his knee done before next winter?
Medicare is loved because it gives everyone access to healthcare when they need it most. It’s foundational to our health system and one of the greatest success stories of our nation. The green card still gives us a sense of pride.
Fifty years ago, it took nerve to build our health system – both public and private. It remains the envy of the world. Our job now is to show the same nerve in writing its next chapter, because what we have is no longer fit for purpose.
As the Medibank Group marked 50 years on 1 October 2026, we know that a strong, functioning health system is one where both the public and private sectors work together.
We began with the ambition of giving people in Australia greater choice and control in how they access healthcare.  Half a century on, although our world now looks very different, that purpose still defines us and the contribution Medibank, ahm and Amplar Health make to the health system.
Right now, we are at a critical juncture. Preserving and strengthening Australia's health system will require sustained reform, continuous innovation in care models and increased adoption of technology. This change will require genuine partnership between government, the health sector and the community.
Transformational change is essential if we are to meet growing consumer health needs and to keep our health system one of the best in the world.
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                                    <author>David Koczkar</author>
                                <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2026 11:21:00 +1100</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank Group marks 50 years with additional $50m mental health investment, taking total to $100m]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-group-marks-50-years-with-additional-50m-mental-health-investment-taking-total-to-100m</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank Group marks 50 years of supporting people in Australia with an additional $50 million investment in the future of mental health. ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[This October, Medibank Group is marking 50 years of supporting people in Australia with an additional $50 million investment in the future of mental health - bringing the total recent investment to $100 million - as it looks to the next chapter of Australia’s evolving health system.
Since 1976, Medibank Group has supported people in Australia through some of life’s most important health moments, paying more than $200 billion in today’s dollars in benefits, supporting more than 1.2 billion claims and funding around 75 million hospital admissions and procedures.
Building upon our 50-year history as one of Australia’s leading health insurers, Medibank Group now includes our Medibank and ahm brands, and our Amplar Health portfolio, including Better Medical and Myhealth, one of Australia’s largest multidisciplinary primary care networks, together with strategic investments and joint ventures across short stay surgical and acute mental health hospitals.
Today, more than six million Australians trust Medibank Group with their health and wellbeing. Among them, over 40,000 customers have been with Medibank Group since 1976, and more than 20% of customers have held their policies for over 25 years - a testament to the enduring role Medibank has played for generations of people.
$100 million total investment in mental health over five years
To mark the 50-year milestone, the Medibank Group has today announced an additional $50 million investment over five years to invest in mental health access, prevention and innovation for customers and the broader community.
Medibank Group CEO David Koczkar said the health company has supported people in Australia through some of their most important moments over the past 50 years.
“We’re proud of the contribution we’ve made to Australia’s health system and the role we’ve played in helping people live healthier lives. As one of Australia’s largest health companies, we have an important role to play in helping shape what comes next,” Mr Koczkar said.
“We believe mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness, as almost half of us will face mental ill health at some point in our life. Mental health is fundamental to our overall health and wellbeing, but too many people still face barriers to getting the support they need.
“The rate of mental ill-health is growing at an alarming rate in Australia. Over the past decade, we have spent around $2 billion towards our customers’ mental health hospital admissions. For many people, the current system is not working and is creating more problems for our stretched health network.
“Our additional $50 million investment in mental health - bringing the total to $100 million – demonstrates our commitment to improve mental health in Australia, to help more people access support earlier and when they need it most.”
The additional investment will support initiatives including an expansion of our Virtual Psychology Clinic and new acute mental health innovation with hospitals and will also extend to a new partnership with Smiling Mind, making mental wellbeing tools more accessible to Medibank customers and the broader community.
Independent research on the evolution of Australia’s health system
New research commissioned for Medibank's 50th anniversary explores how Australia's health system, and the place of private healthcare in it, has changed over five decades.
The research estimates privately funded healthcare activity has helped ease pressure on Australia’s public hospital system, avoiding an estimated 100 million public hospital separations and around 318 million public hospital bed-days over the past 50 years. This translates to the equivalent to freeing up approximately 28,000 public hospital beds in today’s health system, helping to redirect capacity towards emergency and complex care.
The research also highlights the significant role of the private system in delivering care, with private hospitals accounting for around 40% of hospital admissions nationally and approximately 67% of elective surgery admissions.
For Medibank Group, the changing demands on the health system are reflected in how Australians are using healthcare.
The average number of health services accessed by a Medibank customer annually has more than doubled, from five services per customer in 1977 to 11.5 in 2025.
“Australia’s health needs have changed dramatically over the past 50 years,” Mr Koczkar said.
“People are living longer and managing more complex health needs, and healthcare is increasingly about prevention, ongoing support and helping people stay healthier, not simply treating illness when it occurs.”
Reflections on the past and looking to the future
In recent video interviews with Medibank, former Australian prime minister John Howard AO and current Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler reflected on the contributions of the Medibank Group to the health system in Australia.
John Howard AO, who served from 1996 to 2007, reflected on Medibank Group’s role in the evolution of Australia’s private health system. During his time in government, significant reforms were introduced to strengthen private health insurance, an achievement he has described as one of his government’s most significant legacies.
Mr Howard said Australia’s combination of public and private healthcare had helped create a strong and balanced health system.
“I think we have a happy medium. It’s neither totally private nor totally public. It’s a bit of each,” Mr Howard said.
“We need a strong public system to provide a safety net. But we also need a supplement of a private system that looks after people who are prepared to put money aside for a rainy day.”
Australia’s Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler said the combination of public and private healthcare remained an important part of Australia’s health system.
“Australia is fortunate to have one of the best health systems in the world and at its heart is a strong public health system that delivers world class care to Australians whenever they need it,” Mr Butler said.
“But alongside that sits a vital private health system, giving Australians more choice, supporting access to timely care, and playing a critical role in easing demand on our public hospitals.
“Our public and private health systems work together to ensure that Australians have access to treatment when they need it, where they need it.”
As Australia’s health needs have evolved, so too has Medibank Group’s role, with the company increasingly expanding its focus beyond health insurance.
Over the past decade, Medibank Group has invested almost $500 million in expanding its health capabilities across primary care, home-based care, virtual health and digital health, helping people access more connected and personalised care across different stages of their health journey.
“As we look to the next 50 years, we want to help make mental health support more accessible and ensure more people can get help earlier, when it can make the biggest difference,” Mr Koczkar said.
“We’re proud of how far Medibank Group has come, but our focus is firmly on the future and continuing to make a meaningful difference to the health and wellbeing of people in Australia.”
For further information about the historical timeline of the Medibank Group, visit History | Medibank Group.
Assets available for media use
A video news release featuring Medibank Group Medical Director Dr Shona Sundaraj, Mr John Howard AO and historical Medibank footage available HERE.
Radio interviews featuring Medibank Group Medical Director and GP Dr Shona Sundaraj, Mr John Howard AO, Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing of Australia, Medibank customer Chris Seers and Medibank Chief Executive Officer David Koczkar available HERE.
Medibank Group 50 years strong booklet - a visual storybook discussing the evolution of healthcare in Australia available HERE.
Archival Medibank images and behind the scenes photos of Mr John Howard AO, available HERE.
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                                    <author>emily.ritchie@medibank.com.au (Emily Ritchie)</author>
                                <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2026 05:00:00 +1100</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank customers embrace virtual GP care as demand surges]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-customers-embrace-virtual-gp-care-as-demand-surges</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Thousands of Medibank customers are turning to virtual GP appointments, highlighting the growing role telehealth is playing in improving access to primary care across Australia]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Thousands of Medibank customers are turning to virtual GP appointments, highlighting the growing role telehealth is playing in improving access to primary care across Australia.
New data shows significant growth in the use of Medibank's GP telehealth service, delivered by Amplar Health Online Doctor, with August appointments up 34% on July, reflecting increasing demand from customers seeking convenient, timely access to healthcare.
Currently running as a pilot, the service gives eligible Medibank customers access to three fully covered virtual GP appointments each year at no additional cost, helping Australians access quality primary care when and where they need it most.
The increase comes as Australians continue to face challenges accessing primary care, particularly in regional and rural communities and amid ongoing GP workforce pressures.
Medibank Group Medical Director and GP Dr Shona Sundaraj said the strong growth demonstrates how virtual healthcare is helping address some of the biggest barriers Australians face when seeking medical care.
&quot;Australians are increasingly embracing virtual healthcare because it offers something many people are struggling to find, timely, convenient access to a GP,&quot; Dr Sundaraj said.

We know there are people living in regional and rural communities who can face long wait times or significant travel to see a doctor. We also know there are busy parents juggling work, school drop-offs and caring responsibilities who simply can't afford to spend half a day getting to and from an appointment. Virtual GP consultations can help bridge those gaps by bringing healthcare to people wherever they are.

&quot;Importantly, virtual care can also make it easier for family members to be part of a consultation when needed. As our population ages, being able to have an adult child, carer or other support person join an appointment can make a real difference to a patient's understanding of their healthcare and treatment options.
&quot;This is about equity of access. Quality healthcare shouldn't depend on your postcode, your work schedule, your caring responsibilities or your ability to travel. Virtual care is playing an increasingly important role in ensuring more Australians can access the healthcare they need.&quot;
Medibank is continuing to invest in digital health services such as a mental health line, nurse line and virtual psychology, all as part of its broader commitment to helping customers stay healthy and access care earlier, with virtual GP appointments complementing traditional face-to-face care.
The service enables eligible customers to securely connect with an Australian-registered specialist GP from home, work or while travelling within Australia, providing convenient support for a range of everyday health concerns.
The surge in demand reflects broader changes in how Australians want to access healthcare, with more people seeking flexible healthcare options that fit around increasingly busy lives.
Dr Sundaraj said virtual GP services are not intended to replace a patient's regular doctor, but to complement existing care and are becoming an important part of the healthcare ecosystem.
&quot;Primary care remains the foundation of a strong health system, but Australians are telling us they want more ways to access that care,&quot; Dr Sundaraj said.

By combining virtual health services with traditional healthcare pathways, we can help more people get the right care at the right time. Whether it's a parent managing competing priorities, someone in a regional town or a customer who simply needs medical advice quickly, virtual GP services are helping remove barriers and making healthcare more accessible.

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                                    <author>alice.ross@medibank.com.au (Alice Ross)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 2026 13:06:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Amplar Health unveils new brand as it accelerates its mission to transform healthcare for Australians ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/amplar-health-unveils-new-brand-as-it-accelerates-its-mission-to-transform-healthcare-for-australians</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Amplar Health has unveiled a new brand identity, marking an important milestone in its evolution and reflecting its growing role in delivering more seamless, personalised and proactive healthcare experiences for Australians]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Amplar Health has unveiled a new brand identity, marking an important milestone in its evolution and reflecting its growing role in delivering more seamless, personalised and proactive healthcare experiences for people in Australia.
As the healthcare delivery company of the Medibank Group, Amplar Health is central to the Group's vision of creating the best health and wellbeing for Australia and its 2030 ambition of supporting better health outcomes for more Australians while helping build a more sustainable health system.
The refreshed brand comes as Amplar Health expands its reach beyond its traditional business-to-business foundations and increasingly delivers healthcare services, under the Amplar Health identity directly to patients across Australia.
Over the past year, Amplar Health delivered 5.3 million patient interactions, helping Australians access care where and when they need it. Through innovative models of care such as home-based services, the organisation also helped save 194,000 hospital bed days in FY26, reducing pressure on the healthcare system while improving patient experiences.
Today, Amplar Health supports Australians through a growing range of services including home hospital services, virtual nursing and GP services, prevention and wellbeing programs, and primary care services through Myhealth and Better Medical clinics.
The new Amplar Health brand reflects our commitment to reshaping healthcare through experiences that combine technology, data and deeply human care. By focusing on earlier intervention and prevention, delivering care in the settings that work best for people and leveraging insights and clinical expertise to deliver more integrated care, we aim to improve outcomes for patients, customers and communities while making healthcare accessible, proactive and personalised to individual needs at every stage of their journey.
Amplar Health Group Lead Robert Read said the new brand represents both the organisation's evolution and its future ambition.
&quot;We're taking another important step in Amplar Health's evolution,” Mr Read said.

Our refreshed brand reflects our ambition to deliver better healthcare experiences for more Australians while staying true to what matters most, providing exceptional care and support

&quot;This is an exciting moment for our people, our customers and the future of Amplar Health.&quot;
Mr Read said Amplar Health's role in the future of Australian healthcare had never been more important.
&quot;Australia's healthcare system is undergoing significant change, and Amplar Health is well positioned to help support that transition. Through virtual care, hospital-in-the-home services, prevention programs, primary care and innovative partnerships, we're making healthcare accessible, connected and sustainable,” he said.
&quot;Our ambition is simple but powerful. We want to empower lives and transform health by delivering the integrated healthcare experiences Australians deserve. Every service we provide and every innovation we pursue contributes to Medibank's vision of better health and wellbeing for Australia.&quot;
The launch of the new Amplar Health brand signals the organisation's commitment to continued growth and innovation as it works to reach more people, support more communities and contribute to a more proactive, personalised and sustainable future for healthcare.
Abour Amplar Health
Backed by 30 years of expertise, Amplar Health connects Australians with personalised primary care, aged care, rehabilitation, hospital and mental health services. We deliver healthcare when and where people need it and are guided by a robust clinical governance framework. Through more seamless and proactive healthcare experiences, Amplar Health is helping create better health outcomes for individuals at every stage of their health journey while supporting a more sustainable healthcare system. That's how we deliver amplified healthcare, everywhere we are.
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                                    <author>alice.ross@medibank.com.au (Alice Ross)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2026 09:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank Group releases Annual Report 2026, marking 50 years strong ]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-group-releases-annual-report-2026-marking-50-years-strong</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[The report highlights another strong year for the Group, with growth across health insurance and health services, expanded healthcare delivery through Amplar Health, deeper customer engagement and continued investment in improving access to care.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank Group today released its Annual Report 2026, marking 50 years of supporting the health and wellbeing of people in Australia.
The report highlights another strong year for the Group, with growth across health insurance and health services, expanded healthcare delivery through Amplar Health, deeper customer engagement and continued investment in improving access to care.
Today, more than six million people in Australia trust Medibank Group with their health and wellbeing through Medibank, ahm and Amplar Health, reflecting the company's evolution from the only private health fund that covers Australia into a health company.
In a joint message, Chair Mike Wilkins AO and Chief Executive Officer David Koczkar said FY26 demonstrated the strength of Medibank's strategy and its growing role across Australia's health system.

This October marks 50 years of Medibank. For 50 years, we have stood alongside people in Australia to help them choose the right care and access it when it matters most. Today, customers turn to us not only for health insurance, but for health and wellbeing support that makes a genuine difference in their lives,

A first look at the new Medibank Group brand
The 2026 Annual Report marks the first look at our refreshed Medibank Group brand identity, offering an early preview ahead of the official launch on 1 October 2026.
Coinciding with the Medibank Group's 50th anniversary, our new identity has been designed to celebrate the organisation's heritage while creating a clearer distinction between the Medibank Group and our consumer brands, Medibank, ahm and Amplar Health.
Our 50-year anniversary is the perfect opportunity to launch a Medibank Group brand identity that honours our heritage while reflecting our maturity, strength and future ambitions.
By drawing on elements of our original 1976 identity, we've created a modern brand that respects our history while positioning us for what's next.
Another strong year for the group
The Annual Report also highlights another strong year including:


Delivering value for customers through affordability and wellbeing initiatives, including more than $250 million of savings delivered through Members' Choice and no gap networks


Expanding healthcare delivery through Amplar Health, including supporting 5.3 million patient interactions


Expanding Medibank's primary care network through the acquisition of Better Medical


Continuing to invest in mental health and prevention programs, with $11.5 million invested in mental health initiatives as part of Medibank's five-year, $50 million commitment


Progressing towards becoming one of Australia's healthiest workplaces, including being recognised as Best Enterprise Organisation at the AFR BOSS Best Places to Work Awards


Releasing Medibank's first Sustainability Report aligned to Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards


These achievements reflect the dedication, expertise and care of our people across the organisation.
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                                <pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2026 08:55:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank Better Health Research Hub sets research focus on healthy ageing, innovative care and mental health]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-better-health-research-hub-sets-research-focus-on-healthy-ageing-innovative-care-and-mental-health</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[The Medibank Better Health Research Hub has announced three research pillars that will guide its investment and partnerships over the next two years.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[The Medibank Better Health Research Hub has announced three research pillars that will guide its investment and partnerships over the next two years.
The pillars are:


Prevention across life stages: Improving prevention, early detection and healthy ageing through primary, allied and community care.

Innovative care models: Enabling more access, choice and personalised care options.

Mental health in the community: Supporting mental health tailored to different needs and available at times when they are needed the most.

Shaped by input from customers, researchers, policy experts and Medibank people, the pillars respond to some of Australia's biggest health challenges, including chronic disease, mental health and growing pressure on the health system. They form the basis for the Hub’s expected investment of around $2 million in health research over the next two years.
Together, they place greater emphasis on healthy ageing, preventative health, delivering more care in homes and communities, improving mental health outcomes including for the healthcare workforce, and using technology to make healthcare more accessible.
The updated research focus also strengthens the Hub's commitment to health equity, including improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, regional and rural communities, and others who face barriers to care.
Medibank Group Medical Director Dr Shona Sundaraj said the updated research focus builds on the Hub's longstanding support for research that improves health outcomes and strengthens Australia's health system.
“Australia faces significant health challenges, from rising rates of chronic disease and mental ill health to increasing pressure on our health workforce and services,” Dr Sundaraj said.

Our focus over the next two years is on areas where research can make the biggest difference, helping people stay healthier for longer, improving access to care and supporting innovation that delivers better health outcomes.

“Importantly, these areas have been shaped by the voices of our customers, researchers and experts across the health system. We've sharpened our focus on the issues that matter most and where we can help turn evidence into action and improve the health and wellbeing of people in Australia.”
To learn more about the Medibank Better Health Research Hub and its research pillars, visit the Medibank Better Health Research Hub.
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                                    <author>juliet.williams@medibank.com.au (Juliet Williams)</author>
                                <pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2026 09:28:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank expands access to specialist cost information for customers and GPs]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/specialist-cost-information-customers-gps</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[Medibank is making it easier for customers and their GPs to access information about specialists participating in Medibank’s GapCover arrangements, helping support more informed healthcare decisions.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Medibank is making it easier for customers and their GPs to access information about specialists participating in Medibank’s GapCover arrangements, helping support more informed healthcare decisions.
Available through HealthShare’s Specialist Referrals Directory and HealthShare.com.au, this update provides customers and their GPs with additional information at the point of the referral.
Patients and GPs will be able to view information about a specialist’s participation in Medibank’s GapCover arrangements, including historical out-of-pocket cost information for some procedures over the previous 12 months.
Users will be able to easily identify specialists who participate in the Medibank No Gap program. The program aims to help eligible Medibank customers reduce out-of-pocket costs for included treatments and services as part of a hospital admission for select surgical procedures, provided the procedure is performed by a participating surgeon at a participating hospital.
Medibank Senior Executive Nathan Crothers said the health company wants to make it easier for customers to understand and navigate their healthcare options.
&quot;We know that some people are delaying specialist care because of cost concerns, so we're pleased to make information about specialists participating in GapCover and our No Gap program available through HealthShare at an important point in the patient journey,” said Mr Crothers.
“Choosing the right specialist is an important healthcare decision, with a range of factors influencing what is most appropriate for each individual patient. By making this information more readily available alongside specialist information, Medibank aims to give customers and their GPs greater visibility of available options and support informed conversations about specialist care.
&quot;This can help support informed discussions between patients and their GPs and give customers greater confidence when making decisions about their care.&quot;
HealthShare Co-founder Rami Weiss said: &quot;We're pleased to work with Medibank to provide patients and GPs with access to more useful information when considering specialist care.&quot;
&quot;Choosing a specialist is an important decision that takes into account a patient's individual needs and circumstances. By making information about Medibank's GapCover arrangements more accessible at the point of referral, we can help GPs have better-informed conversations with their patients and support patients to make decisions that are right for them.&quot;
For more information:


https://www.medibank.com.au/health-support/health-services/no-gap/


https://www.medibank.com.au/providers/medical/gapcover/


https://www.medibank.com.au/health-insurance/find-provider/


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                                    <author>sharna.rhys-jones@medibank.com.au (Sharna Rhys-Jones)</author>
                                <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 10:30:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[2026 full year results]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/2026-full-year-results</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[The result reflects the strength of the business, the trust our customers and patients continue to place in us, and the progress we are making towards our 2030 ambitions.  ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[The result we have announced today reflects the strength of the business, the trust our customers and patients continue to place in us, and the progress we are making towards our 2030 ambitions.
We now support around 6 million people with their health and wellbeing, and our focus remains on helping people get more value from their health cover, greater certainty when they need care, and better access to the services that support their health.
Greater value
Despite cost-of-living pressures, people continue to prioritise their health. We delivered almost $300 million in value to our customers during the year, in addition to $6.9 billion in total claims paid.
We continue to balance the rising cost of healthcare with the need to keep health insurance affordable. And we’re supporting private hospitals to deliver that care to our customers, returning more of every premium dollar to providers than the industry average.

More health engagement
We are meeting more of the health needs of more people, with 334,000 enrolments in our everyday prevention programs and 36,000 clinician-guided prevention services delivered to customers. 57% of Medibank policyholders engaged with our health and wellbeing offerings this year. We continue to invest in our Live Better rewards program, which now has more than 1 million members. Highly engaged Live Better members are more active and report healthier behaviours, demonstrating the value of this program.

Growing in health
Our Amplar Health business is providing care right across Australia, supporting patients in both the public and private systems. With one of Australia's largest multidisciplinary primary care networks, we supported more than 4 million GP consultations across 169 GP and medical clinics. Through Amplar Health Online Doctor, our team of specialist GPs now offer 24/7 health advice to the community.

Driving the health transition
With demands on the system only set to increase, we're helping to drive the health transition that Australia needs. Over the last decade, we’ve invested more than $500 million to help meet more of the needs of our customers and make a positive difference to the health system.
Through our investments and partnerships in supporting personalised models of care, we are helping people receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time. This is giving people more choice, greater value and more control over how they access care, while supporting the sustainability of the health system for the long term.
The future of health lies in the home and community, and we're already seeing that shift take place. We also continue to partner with private hospitals, providing more than $40 million to help drive the health transition too.

Strengthening our foundations
We continued to strengthen our foundations in risk, technology and AI, keeping clinical quality, safety and human care at the centre. These investments are improving the way we work, supporting our people, and delivering better customer experiences.
The opportunities ahead are many, and will require us to stay focused on what matters most: building customer trust, helping more people live healthier lives, and growing as a health company. This has, and will continue to, support our ongoing resilience and build on our record of managing through the cycles.
Our financial performance
We’re pleased to see strong growth across the business, with improved momentum in the Medibank brand, ahm continuing to grow above the market, and Medibank Health delivering another record result.
Our performance reflects the broader shift in health underway, and the importance of Medibank Health to our strategy. Now contributing around 12% of Group operating profit, it is helping us reach more people in more ways.

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                                    <author>emily.ritchie@medibank.com.au (Emily Ritchie)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2026 08:40:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[50 new transitional care beds helping South Australians recover outside hospital]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/50-new-transitional-care-beds-helping-south-australians-recover-outside-hospital</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[A partnership between the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) and Amplar Health has delivered 50 transitional (step-down) care beds at College Grove]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[A partnership between the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) and Amplar Health has delivered 50 transitional (step-down) care beds at College Grove, providing more South Australians with appropriate care outside hospital while improving patient flow and reducing pressure on emergency departments.
Transitional care bridges the gap between hospital and home by providing short-term clinical and personal support for patients who no longer need acute hospital care.
Demand for hospital services continues to grow as South Australia's population ages and healthcare needs become more complex.
Transitional care services help ensure hospital beds are available for patients requiring acute treatment while providing appropriate ongoing care for those recovering from illness, surgery or injury.
Following an initial 10-bed opening in April, all 50 transitional care beds delivered through the Central Adelaide Local Health Network and Amplar Health partnership are now operational, including eight dedicated memory support beds as part of Central Adelaide Local Health Network Transition Care Service.
The service provides 24-hour care for patients who are medically ready to leave hospital but still require support before returning home or moving to another care setting.
The College Grove service is part of a growing focus on delivering healthcare outside traditional hospital settings, helping patients transition safely from hospital while improving capacity across the broader health system.
South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing Blair Boyer said the service was helping ensure patients received care in the most appropriate setting while improving capacity across the hospital system.
“As of August, there were 466 patients in South Australian metropolitan public hospitals, and other SA Health services awaiting placement in a residential aged care home. Of these, 124 were waiting for dementia specific care,” Minister Boyer said.
“And in light of that, across Australia an additional 10,000 aged care beds each year will be needed to meet future demand. Of these, 124 were waiting for dementia specific care. But we are doing what we can, by creating the incentive for private investment in aged care facilities, that will take pressure off our health system sooner rather than later.
Amplar Health Group Lead and Chief Executive Robert Read congratulated the government: &quot;This is the health transition Australia needs. By delivering innovative models of care outside of the traditional hospital setting, we're improving access, choice and control for patients. Services like the one at College Grove demonstrate how we can add capacity to the health system in smart and sustainable ways.”
&quot;We're proud to work alongside Central Adelaide Local Health Network to deliver a service that supports hospital flow and responds to the changing healthcare needs of South Australians,” Mr Read said.
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                                    <author>alice.ross@medibank.com.au (Alice Ross)</author>
                                <pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 18:00:00 +1000</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Medibank transforms every goal at Spud’s Game into support towards mental fitness]]></title>
                <link>https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/newsroom/post/medibank-transforms-every-goal-at-spuds-game-into-support-towards-mental-fitness</link>
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                                <description><![CDATA[As the official health partner of Spud's Game, Medibank is bringing its mental fitness platform to life through a series of game-day activations and fundraising initiatives designed to remind Australians that fitness isn't just physical. ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[Brendan Fevola, Stewart Loewe, Jane Bunn and Marmalade set to headline The Hardest Kick, turning every kick, goal and donation into meaningful support for mental health and wellbeing.
Medibank is strengthening its commitment to mental fitness through its partnership with Spud's Game, supporting one of football's most significant community moments to encourage Australians to prioritise meaningful connection and mental wellbeing.
The sixth annual Spud’s Game, which will take place at Marvel Stadium on 9 August, is Australian sport’s largest fundraising event for mental health and this year will see the AFLW and AFL join forces in Marvel Stadium’s first ever double header.
As the official health partner of Spud's Game and a proud health partner of the AFLW, Medibank is bringing its mental fitness platform to life through a series of game-day activations and fundraising initiatives designed to remind Australians that fitness isn't just physical.
The partnership reflects Medibank's broader focus on preventative mental health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on helping Australians build meaningful connections, stay engaged with their communities and adopt small everyday behaviours that support wellbeing.
At this year's Spud's Game, Medibank will support fundraising for the Danny Frawley Community and Black Dog Institute through a series of donation initiatives.
Throughout both the Spud’s Game AFLW and AFL matches, Medibank will donate $1,000 for every goal scored to the Danny Frawley Community, part of Black Dog Institute, helping turn every goal into tangible support for mental fitness initiatives.
Taking centre stage on game day will be The Hardest Kick, where Brendan Fevola, Stewart Loewe, Jane Bunn and Joel Eyles (DJ Checkers) will put their goal-kicking skills to the test in support of a worthy cause.
The challenge will see each participant attempt to kick a goal from one of four spots inside the 50 metre arc.
Supporters can donate to help their chosen Hardest Kick participant secure the best position, with the participant who raises the most money for the Danny Frawley Community and Black Dog Institute earning first choice of kicking spot.
Fans can support their chosen Hardest Kick participant by visiting the Hardest Kick donation page and donating before Saturday 8 August.
Every kick within the Hardest Kick challenge will contribute additional funds to the fundraising tally, with Medibank donating:

$1,000 for every goal
$500 for every behind
$150 for every miss

Medibank will also introduce the Medibank Interchange Bench, a dedicated space at Marvel Stadium designed to encourage fans to pause, connect and take a moment for their own mental fitness.
Inspired by one of football's most recognisable places of rest and reset, the activation will invite fans to call or text a loved one, check in with someone they care about, and reflect on the importance of staying connected.
A range of soon to be announced high-profile St Kilda players are set to make appearances on the Medibank Interchange Bench alongside Jane Bunn and Riley Srey (Marmalade).
Medibank Group Chief Medical Officer Dr Andrew Wilson said: “At Medibank, we want to help Australians think about their mental fitness in the same way they think about their physical fitness – as something that can be supported through small, everyday actions.”
“Our partnership with Spud’s Game is about bringing that preventative health message to life in a place where connection already happens so naturally.
“Footy has a powerful ability to bring people together, whether that’s families, friends, teammates or entire communities, and those moments of connection can play an important role in helping people feel supported, included and less alone,” Dr Wilson said.
The Hardest Kick is one of several initiatives designed to spark conversations and raise vital funds on game day.
For long-time St Kilda fan Jane Bunn, being involved is an opportunity to honour Spud's legacy while backing an important cause.
“As a massive Saints supporter, Spud’s Game is really special to me because it brings people together around footy, community and a cause that matters,” said Ms Bunn.
“If taking part in The Hardest Kick helps encourage more people to think about their own mental fitness, or simply reach out to someone in their life, I’m really proud to be part of it.”
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                                    <author>sharna.rhys-jones@medibank.com.au (Sharna Rhys-Jones)</author>
                                <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:30:00 +1000</pubDate>
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