Editors Picks
02 July 2025
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.
02 July 2025
APPROVAL FOR SLEEP APNOEA DRUG
THE TGA has approved Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a drug used for type 2 diabetes and obesity, to also treat moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in adults with obesity. OSA affects 780,000 Australians and is linked to serious health risks. Mounjaro works by promoting weight loss, reducing airway blockages. It’s the first approved medicine for OSA in Australia, offering an alternative to CPAP machines and surgery. Experts hail it as a major breakthrough for sleep and obesity-related health care.
02 July 2025
CHARITY SUPPORT REACHES NEW LEVELS
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.
02 July 2025
PARENTAL CONCCERN IS MEDICALLY VALID
A NEW study in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health shows that parental concern about a child worsening in hospital is as significant as abnormal vital signs in detecting serious illness. Led by Monash University researchers, the study urges clinicians to ask, “Are you worried your child is getting worse?” during checks. Findings revealed worried parents were four times more likely to have children needing intensive care, highlighting the need to formally integrate caregiver input into hospital early warning systems.
02 July 2025
ATO IS NOW READY FOR BUSINESS
THE ATO has launched its ‘Ready for Business’ campaign to help new small business owners understand tax, super, and GST obligations. With half of businesses failing within three years, often due to tax errors, the ATO offers guidance via email. It urges correct GST registration, especially for those earning over $75,000 or in ride-sourcing. Side hustles and PAYG instalments are also in focus to avoid tax surprises and improve compliance.
02 July 2025
WARNING OVER EARLY MORNING SCAMS
CPA Australia is warning Australians to watch for tax scams via emails and texts, especially those arriving early in the morning to catch people off guard. These phishing scams impersonate the ATO or government agencies, often claiming urgent action or refunds. Scam losses have surged, with phishing alone causing $13.7 million in early 2025. CPA urges the public to pause, stay alert, and verify messages before clicking, particularly during the busy tax season.
18 May 2025
HILLS GEARS UP FOR BIKE DROP OFF AND TUNE
THE Hills Shire Council has partnered with Revolve Recycling to host a Bike Drop Off & Check and Tune event at Castle Hill Showground.
The event on Saturday, June 21 includes a quick tyre, gears, and brakes check service, or the opportunity to drop off any bike, scooter, e-bike, or tricycle to be recycled free of charge.
Hills Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne is encouraging Hills residents to make the most of this important initiative.
“I am proud that Council is partnering with Revolve Recycling to reduce our environmental footprint, give back to the community, and redistribute refurbished bikes to those in need,” Mayor Byrne said.
“The Revolve Recycling Foundation is working towards the ambitious goal of delivering 1,000 bikes to disadvantaged children every year. You can help them reach this goal by simply cleaning out your garage and donating your old bike.
“Or, if your bike is not ready to be donated yet, you can book in to get it checked and tuned by a mechanic during a free 15-minute session.”
The event, which runs from 9am to 1pm, is an initiative by NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy, funded from the waste levy.
Whilst bookings are required for a check and tune service, no bookings are needed to drop off old bikes.
For more information or to book your bike for a check and tune service, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search ‘Bike Drop Off & Check and Tune’.
