This was the only area of public health in which the Commonwealth had authority at the time of Federation.

Section 51 (xxiiiA) of the Constitution now states the Commonwealth (federal) Parliament has the power to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Commonwealth [of Australia] with respect to the provision of maternity allowances, widows' pensions, child endowment, unemployment, pharmaceutical, sickness and hospital benefits, medical and dental services (but not so as to authorise any form of civil conscription), benefits to students and family allowances.As a result of this amendment the federal government now has a key role in financing and providing medical services through entities such as Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

The latter returned to the health portfolio in 2013, with ageing moving to social services.

The following individuals have been appointed as Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, or any of its precedent titles:[9] The Turnbull government transferred the aged care portfolio back to the Department of Health in October 2015.

[10] The following individual has been appointed as Assistant Ministers of Health and Aged Care, or any of its precedent titles:[5] The following individuals have been appointed as Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health, or any of its precedent titles:[5] The following individuals have been appointed as Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, or any of its precedent titles:[5] The following individuals have been appointed as Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, or any of its precedent titles:[5]