Bulk Billed Psychologist and the Medicare Mental Health Plan
A bulk billed psychologist is one who accepts the Medicare rebate as full payment for an eligible session, so you pay nothing out of pocket for that visit. Not every psychologist bulk bills, and availability varies by location and demand, but for many Australians it is the difference between getting support and going without. Understanding how the system works helps you find affordable care.
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Through the Better Access initiative, Medicare provides a rebate for a set number of psychology sessions per calendar year for eligible people. The rebate reduces the cost of each session. When a provider bulk bills, they charge only the rebate, so there is no gap. When they do not, you pay the difference between their fee and the rebate, known as the gap fee.
To access these subsidised sessions, you usually need a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP. The plan is the referral pathway that unlocks the Medicare rebate. You can read our full guide on how to get a Mental Health Care Plan online. Without a current plan, sessions are not eligible for the Medicare rebate.
Some private psychologists bulk bill, particularly for concession card holders, students, or those in financial hardship. Community health services and headspace centres for young people may also offer bulk billed or low cost sessions. Telehealth widens the pool, since you are not limited to providers near you. It is worth asking each provider directly whether they bulk bill and under what circumstances.
The Medicare rebate amount and the number of subsidised sessions per calendar year are set by the Australian Government and can change, so check the current figures with your GP or Services Australia. If a psychologist charges above the rebate, the gap fee is the part you pay. Knowing these numbers in advance helps you plan and avoid surprises.
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Medicare subsidised telehealth has made psychology more reachable for people in rural and remote areas, for those without transport, and for anyone who finds a video or phone session easier than travelling. For many, removing the trip to a clinic removes the biggest barrier to starting. Eligibility rules for telehealth sessions apply, and your GP can explain them.
An Abby GP can assess you, prepare a Mental Health Care Plan where appropriate, and refer you on so you can seek a bulk billing or low gap psychologist. Bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card. Strict eligibility criteria apply. Book an appointment to begin, or start with our guide to the Mental Health Care Plan.
If you are in crisis, call 000, or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 at any time.
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The information reflects guidance available as of the "last updated" date shown above. Medical knowledge evolves, and individual circumstances vary — always discuss decisions about your care with a qualified clinician.
In an emergency, call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department. Abby Health is not an emergency service. For mental health crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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