Montu, a leading alternative healthcare company, today welcomed the Labor Party’s commitment to 1800MEDICARE, a free nationwide 24/7 telehealth urgent care service, set to launch in January 2026.

The $204.5 million investment, announced by the Hon. Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care, represents a significant step toward embedding equitable, accessible telehealth as a permanent feature of Australia’s healthcare system.

Montu’s Vice-President of Corporate Affairs and Patient Advocacy, Jodie Thomas, said the move reinforces the essential role that telehealth must continue to play in a modern, patient-centred health system.

“Telehealth has enabled millions of Australians to access the care they need,” Ms Thomas said. 

“It is critical that telehealth is maintained as a core pillar of our health system, not just as an alternative care pathway.”

Montu has been a leader in telehealth innovation since 2019, supporting hundreds of thousands of patients and clinicians nationwide through its virtual clinics, education platforms, and technology solutions. 

““Equitable access to urgent, high-quality care should not depend on your postcode or the time of day.”” Ms Thomas continued. 

“Telehealth Services help ensure that all Australians, in every community, can get the help they need, when they need it.”

Montu reiterated its commitment to supporting the evolution of digital health in Australia, calling for continued investment in technology and regulatory frameworks that strengthen patient access, safety, and continuity of care.