Further support for young people with medical conditions

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough, announced today that about 25,000 students would now be able to access a Health Care Card (HCC) due to changes that come into effect from October 1.

“Legislation for the extension of the Health Care Card (HCC) for former Carer Allowance (child) care recipients, comes into effect today,” Mr Brough said.

“The move will help approximately 25,000 full-time students with a disability or medical condition and their families to manage their on-going medical costs. Previously many of these students were not eligible for a HCC.

“The initiative is worth $19.3 million over four years and provides Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme prescription items and certain Medicare services at a cheaper rate.

“This measure will provide students with disability or a medical condition with the help they need to pursue their educational goals and hopes and ambitions for the future.

“Young people with disability or a medical condition face particular challenges. Extending this benefit highlights the support the Howard Government has given and will continue to provide for those in our community who most need our support,” Mr Brough said.