Media Release

Improved Medicare Offices in Melbourne

25 July 2007

The Minister for Human Services, Senator Chris Ellison, today opened two new offices for Medicare Australia in Melbourne.

“The opening of these offices demonstrates the Howard Government’s strong commitment to Medicare and the services it provides to Australians, including medical providers and the general public,” Senator Ellison said.

“Medicare plays an important role in delivering new health programs and services to support the Australian public,” Senator Ellison.

“The extension of Family Assistance services to Medicare offices offers a new level of customer service and convenience for Australians in accessing government services and benefits,” Senator Ellison said.

“Australians can now have their claims for Baby Bonus, Maternity Immunisation Allowance and Family Tax Benefit processed when they visit their Medicare office. They can also change their income estimate, method of payment and their contact details.”

The relocated City West Medicare Office incorporates new colours and signage to promote Medicare and Family Assistance services and offers a friendly, state-of-the-art environment.

Senator Ellison also opened the new Victorian state headquarters for Medicare Australia at 595 Collins Street provides office accommodation for 500 staff over five floors.  The core business for the state office is to administer Medicare programs, including the Medicare Information Centre (call centre) and specialised processing areas for Medicare, the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme, Department of Veterans’s Affairs and Aged Care.

Senator Ellison said the new office building was highly environmentally friendly, offering excellent public transport access and reflected the residential and business resurgence underway in the west end of Melbourne.

Media Contact: Matt Francis – 0406 052 038.