This report analyses key competition and consumer developments and trends in the private health insurance industry between 1 July 2018 and 30 June 2019, including ACCC enforcement and other actions relating to the health sector.

New private health insurance data show young people are continuing to drop their cover. But the industry's argument a youth exodus will put pressure on public hospitals isn't necessarily right.

In terms of public policy, this report suggests that the wide-ranging consequences of climate change on mortality, public health and the economy mean that system-wide policy responses (across the health system, aged care services, emergency services, and other social services) are necessary to mitigate the risks posed and their interaction with population ageing.

Hooked on subsidies, the system is failing. The government needs to move beyond its prejudices about public and private financing, writes Jennifer Doggett.

This health plan charts the way forward for Australia over the next 3 and 10 years in the key areas of mental health, primary care, hospitals, preventive health and medical research.