Abbott hints at end to GP co-payment plan

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has signaled he could push to drop the politically toxic GP co-payment, in an effort to boost his standing in the electorate.

“I don’t want to pre-empt our party decision-making processes, but it’s no secret that we have been rethinking some policies that were brought down last year,” he said.

Assistant Treasurer Josh Frydenberg also said there would be “significant changes” to the government’s position on the co-payment.

The move could appease disgruntled government backbenchers, but it has not stopped Mr Abbott being questioned about the party leadership during a visit to his New Zealand counterpart John Key.

“John and I obviously have discussed leadership, and I’ve come to the clear conclusion that John’s leadership is safe,” he joked at a joint press conference.

“So, good on you, mate.”

Mr Abbott also pledged to help NSW Premier Mike Baird on the campaign trail, despite his presence being considered toxic in the recent Queensland and Victorian state elections.