Member for Central Wheatbelt Lachlan Hunter MP has slammed the Federal Labor Government after it rejected approval for the Wundowie Pharmacy to dispense Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicines, leaving locals without access to affordable prescriptions.
Mr Hunter said the decision flies in the face of Federal Labor’s election promise of “cheaper medicines” and has left a vulnerable regional community behind.
“I recently met with the Wundowie community and heard firsthand just how important it is for locals to access affordable medicines close to home,” Mr Hunter said.
“Federal Labor promised cheaper medicines, but when Wundowie asked for access to the PBS, they were told no.”
Mr Hunter said he has written directly to Federal Health Minister Mark Butler, demanding the decision be reconsidered and that Wundowie be granted access to PBS-subsidised medicines.
“This is a growing regional centre with limited public transport and a significant number of residents who simply cannot travel to access essential healthcare,” he said.
“Expecting people to drive along a major freight route just to access affordable prescriptions is unreasonable and unsafe.”
Mr Hunter said the decision also undermines a significant local investment, with Wundowie Pharmacy owner investing close to $1 million to establish a fully operational pharmacy to serve the community.
“This pharmacy was built in good faith to support local patients, provide vaccinations and chronic disease care, and create local jobs. Without PBS access, its future is now under threat.”
Mr Hunter has also called on the local Federal Labor Member of Parliament to stand up for the Wundowie community and fight for a reversal of the decision.
“Silence from the local Federal Labor MP is not good enough. This community deserves a strong voice and real action.”
“This decision discriminates against a low socio economic, regional community and denies them the same access to affordable medicines that city residents take for granted.”
Mr Hunter said he will continue to advocate for Wundowie until the Federal Government delivers fair access to the PBS.
“Cheaper medicines should not depend on your postcode.”