Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced expanded paid practical placements for university students in 10 frontline allied health fields, offering up to $338.60 weekly from July 2027.The program, costing $745 million by 2036, builds on existing schemes for teaching, nursing, and social work students.Albanese emphasized the initiative would alleviate student debt, support healthcare workforce development, and address cost-of-living pressures.

The policy was unveiled at the Labor Party's 50th National Conference in Adelaide, where Albanese also criticized One Nation for lacking substantive policy proposals.The measure targets clinical psychology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and other disciplines.Albanese stressed the need for practical solutions over political grievances, highlighting long-term challenges like healthcare staffing.A Fair Work Court will also be established to resolve workplace disputes.The conference will debate AI regulations, gas taxes, and Palestine policy, with party positions to be finalized by parliamentary leaders.