No one should have to drive an hour for emergency care or choose between paying bills and seeing a doctor. But our only public hospital is crumbling, and GP’s are halting bulk-billing services after years of underfunding. Ben will fight for funding to upgrade Rosebud Hospital, increased Medicare rebates to restore bulk billing, and expand Medicare to cover basic dental care care for all.

Despite living in one of the most beautiful regions, in one of the richest countries in the world - accessing quality healthcare is becoming more difficult each year.

Rosebud Hospital - our only public hospital - is struggling to meet growing demand and maintain its aging facilities. Local doctors are closing bulk-billing services. And for many residents, particularly seniors, dental care has become an unaffordable luxury.

"When I talk to people at the Community Support Centre, access to good healthcare is one of their biggest concerns," says Ben Smith. "We're hearing from families forking out for GP visits that used to be free and people driving to Frankston Hospital because Rosebud is overwhelmed."

"Both major parties have held this seat, including the former Health Minister. But neither party has delivered for our healthcare needs," says Ben. "As an independent, I'll work with whoever forms government to ensure the peninsula gets its fair share of healthcare funding."