Saturday, 26 July 2025 12:32
BLACKTOWN CITY WOMEN'S FORUM
Making our city more female friendly
BRAD BUNTING
I AM looking forward to welcoming the women of our community to the Blacktown City Women’s Forum at Council on Monday 14 July.
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Saturday, 12 July 2025 09:23
FEWER AUSSIES ARE SEEING SPECIALISTS
MEDICARE data shows a 10% drop in Australians seeing medical specialists over five years, despite population growth. Rising costs—some first appointments exceed $900—are deterring patients, with up to 20% skipping referrals due to cost concerns. Medicare covers only part of these fees, and insurers can’t assist outside hospital settings. Experts warn this trend risks worsening health outcomes and overburdening public hospitals. The government plans to list specialist fees online to help patients find affordable care and encourage price transparency.
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Saturday, 12 July 2025 09:21
CHARITY SUPPORT AT NEW RECORDS
THE 11th Australian Charities Report reveals strong growth in the sector, with charity revenue reaching a record $222B—up 10.7%—and staff numbers increasing by over 70,000. Charities now employ 1.54 million people, outpacing construction and manufacturing. Volunteer numbers rose to 3.77 million. While revenue growth was led by extra large charities, many small charities struggled. Rising demand, driven by cost-of-living pressures, continues to challenge capacity.
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