Commonwealth support 1952–1962 The introduction of the National Health Scheme by the Commonwealth Minister for Health (Sir Earle Page) in 1952 marked the beginning of a new era for health insurance in Australia. Previously conducted on a private basis, voluntary health insurance funds were now required to be registered under the National Health Act in order to pay the additional benefits now provided by the Commonwealth. HCF decided to seek registration under the Act, which was duly granted and the Fund's total disbursements of the Commonwealth hospital benefit of 4/- a day from 1 January 1952 (the start of the Scheme) to 30 June 1952 amount to £34,073. In 1953, following increases in hospital charges, the HCF family contribution rate was raised to 3/- a week which provided for a weekly hospital benefits of £12/12/- and the age limit on membership was abolished. In 1957, at the end of 25 years' operations, HCF celebrated its silver anniversary with benefit payments for the year amounting to £3,170,408. By 1962, after 30 years of community service, total benefits paid were £9,202,720. The growing years 1962–1972 The commencement of HCF's fourth decade saw a major expansion of the Fund's activities. The decision was taken to end the joint management arrangements with the MBF which had begun in 1960, when HCF staff had moved to the MBF premises in George Street. As a consequence of increased competition, the fund extended its operations to include medical benefits after the Government approval. On 1 November 1963, HCF resumed independent operations from 199 Liverpool Street and launched its combined medical and hospital benefits plan. In 1964 HCF upgraded its administrative procedures by installation of its own computer and introduced electronic data processing as an integral part of its operations. The Fund continued to expand its branch network throughout metropolitan and country areas. It waived, at its own expense, transfer conditions when higher hospital tables were introduced. In 1965, HCF extended its operations to Victoria as part of a plan to assist Fund contributors throughout Australia. New hospital tables were introduced. Branch transactions became a larger part of HCF's business, with three out of every five claims being presented over the counter at metropolitan and country branches. By 1967, HCF had changed its name to the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia and started advertising under the new name. It had established branch offices in Melbourne, Brisbane and Hobart.