What Australians Can Now Claim Under Expanded Medicare Support in 2025
The Australian Government has rolled out a series of Medicare reforms in 2025, significantly expanding the types of medical services and treatments eligible for rebates. This update is designed to improve access to affordable healthcare, especially for low-income families, pensioners, and regional communities.
This article breaks down all the latest changes to Medicare support in 2025, including what you can now claim, who qualifies, and how to access the expanded benefits.
What Is Medicare and What’s Changing in 2025?
Medicare is Australia’s universal public health insurance scheme, covering a wide range of medical services, GP visits, diagnostic tests, mental health support, and specialist care. It ensures all citizens and permanent residents have access to essential health services, either free or subsidised.
In 2025, the government has introduced new bulk-billing incentives, expanded telehealth services, and added chronic illness management supports, making it easier for more Australians to receive care without out-of-pocket costs.
Who Qualifies for the 2025 Medicare Support Expansion?
Eligibility for Medicare remains unchanged in 2025. You can access the new services if you are:
- An Australian citizen
- A permanent resident (or applying for PR)
- A New Zealand citizen living in Australia
- Covered under a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) from certain countries
To claim, you must have a valid Medicare card and be registered with Services Australia.
Key Medicare Additions and Enhancements in 2025
1. Expanded Bulk Billing Incentives
Increased government incentives have enabled more GPs and specialists to bulk bill patients, especially:
- Children under 16
- Concession card holders
- Pensioners and low-income earners
Bulk billing means no out-of-pocket costs for eligible consultations.
2. More Free Telehealth Appointments
The 2025 update includes unlimited bulk-billed telehealth consults for:
- Mental health counselling
- Chronic illness check-ins
- Follow-ups for rural and remote patients
Patients in remote areas will benefit from video consults and e-prescriptions at no extra cost.
3. Chronic Disease Care Plans
Medicare now provides greater support for long-term care, including:
- Diabetes management
- Heart conditions
- Arthritis and musculoskeletal issues
These plans offer access to physiotherapists, podiatrists, and dietitians, fully or partially subsidised through GP referrals.
4. Improved Mental Health Coverage
Eligible Australians can now claim:
- 20 bulk-billed mental health sessions per year
- Access to telehealth psychologists
- Subsidised group therapy and counselling
This aims to reduce the gap fee for youth and adult mental health services.
Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Updates for 2025
The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) has been updated to include new item numbers and extended coverage for:
| Service | MBS Coverage (2025) |
|---|---|
| GP standard consultation | 100% (bulk-billed eligible) |
| Mental health consult (telehealth) | 100% (20 sessions/year) |
| Diabetes care planning | 85–100% (under GP plan) |
| Dietitian referral (chronic care) | Up to 5 sessions subsidised |
| Diagnostic imaging (x-ray, MRI) | Partial/Full coverage |
Always check with your provider whether they bulk bill and confirm applicable MBS item numbers.
How to Claim Expanded Medicare Services
There are multiple ways to access your Medicare entitlements under the 2025 expansion.
In-Person or Telehealth Visit
- Book a consultation with a bulk-billing provider
- Ensure your Medicare card is valid
- Request a service covered under the new MBS listings
- No payment needed if bulk billed; otherwise, pay the gap and claim through MyGov
Claim Online via MyGov
- Link your Medicare account to MyGov
- Go to Claim a Medicare benefit
- Upload receipts and provider details
- Payment will be made to your nominated bank account
Are There New Income Thresholds or Age Limits?
Medicare benefits are not means-tested, but certain bulk billing incentives apply only to:
| Group | Bulk Billing Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Children under 16 | Automatically eligible |
| Pensioner Concession Card holders | Eligible |
| Health Care Card holders | Eligible |
| Seniors Health Card | Partially eligible |
The more clinics bulk bill, the fewer costs fall on patients.
What Services Are Still Not Covered?
Despite the expansions, Medicare does not cover:
- Ambulance services (varies by state)
- Cosmetic procedures without medical necessity
- Most dental care (except for CDBS for children)
- Glasses and hearing aids (covered under separate programs)
You may need private health insurance or state-based assistance for these services.
Australia’s Medicare support expansion in 2025 is a significant step toward affordable and accessible healthcare for all. With more services now bulk billed, extended telehealth access, and better support for chronic and mental health conditions, now is the time to check your eligibility, update your Medicare details, and book with participating providers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many free GP visits can I get under the 2025 changes?
There’s no limit on GP visits if your provider bulk bills. Many will bulk bill children, pensioners, and concession holders.
Q2: Are the 20 mental health sessions under Medicare fully free?
Yes, if your psychologist bulk bills. Otherwise, you may need to pay the gap. Referrals from a GP are required.
Q3: Can I claim Medicare benefits for telehealth from regional or rural areas?
Absolutely. In 2025, telehealth services are fully supported nationwide, with bulk billing encouraged for rural patients.
