Health Policy Initiatives

May 29, 2025

Congratulations to MRHP Chair, Dr Kym Jenkins (AM)

MRHP congratulates Dr. Kym Jenkins (AM) on her prestigious recognition as a Member of the Order of Australia. Dr Jenkins is being honoured for her exceptional contributions to psychiatry, her strategic leadership within the Migrant & Refugee Health Partnership, and her steadfast commitment to improving mental health access for migrant and refugee communities.

Dr Jenkins' achievements underscore the importance of innovative leadership and dedicated advocacy in addressing critical gaps in mental health care. Her recognised efforts not only serve as an inspiration but also highlight the transformative potential of collaborative approaches to healthcare delivery.

PBS Medicines Co-Payment Freeze

The Australian Government has introduced a freeze on the maximum patient cost for all PBS medicines, effective 1 January 2025. Under this initiative, general patients will face a capped cost of $31.60 per prescription, while concession card holders will be charged $7.70 per prescription. This measure is designed to alleviate cost of living pressures while ensuring consistent and timely access to essential medications for all.

For further information about the PBS Medicines Co-Payment Freeze, the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has produced translated resources for consumers and practitioners available via the Department website.

Preparing for Homeschooling: A Guide for Muslim Mothers and Families

Muslim Women Australia offers a comprehensive guide designed for Muslim mothers and families who are embracing homeschooling as a flexible, personalised educational option. The guide combines practical strategies with spiritual insights to help families create an inspiring and well-organised learning environment.

This resource is a valuable tool for families seeking to balance academic rigor with spiritual enrichment, empowering them to transform their home environments into centres for both learning and personal growth. For the full guide and detailed insights, please visit the Muslim Women Australia website.

MyAus App

Australian Cancer Screening Program Information

The MyAus App is a free, multilingual resource designed to support those settling and living in Australia. It offers easy-to-access guidance on everyday challenges and has now expanded its health content to include comprehensive content on Australia’s Cancer Screening Programs — all available in 20 languages.

The updated MyAus App now features clear and accessible cancer screening articles, including accessible information about what cancer is, what cancer screening is, and what to expect and how to access cervical, bowel and breast screening. Visit the website or download the MyAus App from the App Store and Google Play.