Protesters rally against controversial $7 GP charge

Labor leader Bill Shorten has promised “no surrender on Medicare” as protesters gathered on the steps of Old Parliament House in Canberra.

It’s been 40 years since the Whitlam Government used a joint sitting of parliament to usher in Australia’s first universal healthcare system.

“We will never allow a system where your wealth determines your health,” Mr Shorten told the crowd.

“No compromise, no trading, no retreat, no surrender on Medicare.”

Protestors held fake $7 notes, but they may see some change from a visit to the GP.

Health Minister Peter Dutton said the government was happy to hear proposals and suggestions.

Key cross bench senators are currently against the GP payment, meaning the $7 figure could come down as the minister will attempt to negotiate his own repeat of history.

“Just like the Howard Government did with the Democrats, just like Hawke government did with the then Coalition,” Mr Dutton said.