The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) applauds the Hon Greg Hunt MP for his service as Minister for Health and Aged Care.
Announced today during the final parliamentary sitting for 2021, Minister Hunt confirmed that he will be stepping away from politics after next year’s Federal Election.
PSA National President, A/Prof Chris Freeman, thanked the Minister for his service to the nation and paid tribute to his leadership throughout recent health crises.
“Today’s announcement that Minister Hunt will step away from politics following next year’s election truly signifies the end of an era – and I thank him deeply for his efforts over the past four years.
“The way in which the Minister has risen to the challenges of the past few years has been second-to-none.
“Through drought and bushfires, Minister Hunt led the way in protecting and championing the health and wellbeing of all Australians, placing both patient and practitioner outcomes at the forefront of his efforts.
“As a result of his leadership and resolute approach to the pandemic, this nation has incurred a far lower mortality rate from COVID-19 – whilst our health system continues to withstand the impending threat posed by this disease.
“I commenced my presidency here at PSA shortly after Minister Hunt took office, and from the outset, our relationship with the Minister, his office, and the Department has been very productive – growing stronger through the pandemic response.
“Throughout his tenure, Minister Hunt has been a strong advocate for the pharmacy profession, particularly in the areas of medicine safety by declaring Medication Safety and Quality Use of Medicines as Australia’s 10th National Health Priority Area. He also invested in the pharmacy profession so that we may better serve Australia’s most vulnerable populations.
“In July last year, he welcomed PSA as signatories to the 7th Community Pharmacy Agreement, a significant milestone ensuring the whole pharmacy profession’s voice was heard.
“Greg will be remembered as one of Australia’s most important Health Ministers. I wish him and his family all the very best for the future and PSA looks forward to working with him throughout the remainder of his term,” he said.
