Editors Picks
02 July 2025
THE COST OF CONFUSING FOOD LABELS
RESEACH from RMIT University and End Food Waste Australia shows that confusing and inconsistent food labels are causing Australians to throw away edible food, costing households up to $2,500 annually. Australians waste 7.6 million tonnes of food each year, much of it still safe to eat. Clearer labels with simple icons and storage advice could significantly cut waste. Experts urge government, retailers, and producers to collaborate on a national labelling framework, which could prevent nearly a million tonnes of waste by 2030.
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.
