NSW Opposition Leader John Robertson has called on Premier Mike Baird and Minister Jillian Skinner to break their silence on Tony Abbott’s revamped GP tax.

 

“The Premier was silent on the $7 GP tax – and he continues his silence on the $5 tax,” Mr Robertson said.

 

“The community is united in its opposition to the tax.

 

“It is time the NSW Liberals and Nationals but patients before their own personal politics.

 

“This is about standing up for millions of NSW families and patients who depend on bulk-billing and a personal relationship with their GP.

 

“This is an unfair tax and it is bad policy because it will make people think twice about seeing their doctor.

 

“GPs provide essential primary and preventative care. They pick up problems early – before patients are forced into hospital.

 

“Seeing a patient in hospital is much more expensive than addressing the problem early.”

 

Shadow Minister for Health Walt Secord noted that back in May, Queensland Premier Campbell Newman criticised the $7 GP tax saying it was a “big deal” and would contribute to cost of living pressures.

 

“It is time the NSW Liberals and Nationals stood up for NSW patients,” Mr Secord said.