Two-for-one prescription changes to save Australian patients more than $1.6bn

Changes to be included in budget will slash costs for GP visits and medicines but pharmacists likely to push back against new policy

• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

Millions of Australians will be able to buy two months' worth of medicine for the price of a single prescription, in a move that will slash out-of-pocket costs for GP visits and medicines.

The health minister, Mark Butler, announced the change on Wednesday, suggesting it will save patients more than $1.6bn over the next four years.

Sign up for Guardian Australia's free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup