If it eventuates, this will be a terrific first step by a government moving the economy into the 21st century, though $5 is nowhere near high enough - but a start that can be increased.
The concept that some are entitled to "free" GP care, "free" hospitals, "free" ambulances, "free" state school education has had its day. Nothing is free - someone pays. Requiring a co=payment for medical services will discourage abuse and over-use of expensive services.
As for education, providing an education for your children is the greatest gift you can give them. As poyndexter correctly says, it's simply a matter of priorities. I know working class people who sacrifice much to send their children to a Catholic or Independent school. If they can do it, there's no reason every family shouldn't contribute to their child's state education via compulsory fees.
The key to getting our economy going again and our Budget healthy again is to re-think our ingrained sense of entitlement.
