Key facts
- One Nation proposes withdrawing Australia from the World Health Organization and scrapping the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Medical experts and policy analysts have criticized One Nation's proposed health policies, including withdrawing from the WHO and scrapping the TGA, warning they are based on misconceptions, could be costly to taxpayers, and undermine Australia's healthcare system and global health contributions.
These policy proposals, if enacted, could significantly alter Australia's healthcare landscape, impact its international health collaborations, and potentially lead to increased government expenditure and reduced access to care, according to expert analysis.
Medical experts and policy analysts have strongly criticized the health policy proposals put forth by the Australian political party One Nation, warning that they are based on misconceptions and could lead to increased costs for taxpayers while potentially leaving vulnerable citizens without necessary care.
Key proposals from One Nation include withdrawing Australia from the World Health Organization (WHO) and dismantling the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), with the intention of integrating the TGA's functions into the broader health department. The party also suggests implementing photo identification on Medicare cards to address alleged fraud.
Peter Breadon, health program director at the Grattan Institute, expressed skepticism about these proposals. He pointed out that the TGA is already part of the health department and is largely funded through fees from the pharmaceutical industry, not direct taxpayer money, questioning the logic behind targeting it. Breadon also challenged One Nation's claim of saving up to $3 billion annually through measures against Medicare fraud, noting that the cited data refers to provider non-compliance rather than public fraud and that implementing photo IDs would incur significant costs.
Further policy suggestions from One Nation include a royal commission into the COVID-19 pandemic management, opposition to vaccine mandates, and a review of medications added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme during the pandemic. Leader Pauline Hanson has previously voiced objections to COVID-19 vaccines and attempted to legislate against perceived discrimination towards those who refused vaccination.
The party also advocates for Australia's withdrawal from the United Nations and the Paris climate agreement, estimating potential annual savings of up to $1 billion.
Dr. Danielle McMullen, president of the Australian Medical Association, condemned the idea of leaving the WHO, emphasizing its critical role in global health and the importance of Australia's contribution to its work, especially as health threats transcend national borders. Both McMullen and Breadon stressed the significance of the TGA's independent status for ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines.
Terry Barnes, a former health policy adviser, drew parallels between One Nation's policies and Donald Trump's health agenda, describing them as "disconnected thought bubbles" lacking a clear understanding of the healthcare system. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler stated that One Nation poses a "risk to Medicare and cheaper medicines."
Recent polling indicates a surge in support for One Nation, with Pauline Hanson reportedly polling higher than Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as the preferred prime minister in the Resolve Political Monitor.