Senators:

As people are living longer they are putting enormous pressure on the health service. People now survive illnesses that would have killed them previously. Unfortunately, the health service is a victim of its own success. As quickly as it cures one illness, another one comes along that may kill a patient subsequently. Regardless of the Government in power, preparing for all eventualities is an ongoing battle.

Senators:

The Minister is correct in what she said about nursing homes and elderly people living at home. Unfortunately, due to changes in society more women are in the workforce and people are not able to care for their elderly relations in the way they did in the past. There are more single parents and society in general is different. It is difficult to keep pace with changes in society, advances in medicine and increased longevity.

Senators:

The Government has been in power for ten years and the Minister, Deputy Harney, has been responsible for the health portfolio for the past two and a half years. I have not been in the Cabinet and I do not know what goes on there. I am sure Senator O'Rourke could share her expertise in the area.