Mental health is just as important as physical health—and in Australia, the Medicare Mental Health Plan helps ensure affordable support is within reach. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or just feeling overwhelmed, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about accessing subsidised mental health care through Medicare.
What is a Medicare Mental Health Plan?
A Medicare Mental Health Plan, also known as a Mental Health Treatment Plan or GP Mental Health Plan, is a government initiative that gives Australians access to subsidised mental health services. By visiting a GP, eligible individuals can receive a structured plan that covers therapy sessions with psychologists, counsellors, social workers, and other approved providers.
This plan is designed to support early intervention, helping individuals get professional care before conditions worsen. It provides a practical, affordable pathway to manage mental health with expert support.
Why the Medicare Mental Health Plan Exists
Australia recognises mental health as essential to overall well-being. The Medicare Mental Health Plan was introduced to make professional mental health care affordable, reduce mental health stigma, and encourage early, effective treatment. If reducing mental health stigma is a goal but don’t know how to do it, take the Mental Health Level 1 Foundations course. Apart from knowing how to reduce stigma in schools or workplaces, this level also teaches participants how to recognise signs of mental health issues, and how to respond to them. Find the right level of mental health course for you and enrol today.
Key Benefits of the Plan
- Subsidised therapy sessions with registered mental health professionals
- Early intervention for better mental health outcomes
- Access to a wider network of psychological and allied health services
Who is Eligible for a Medicare Mental Health Plan?
To access a Medicare Mental Health Plan, you must meet certain criteria:
- Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Hold a valid Medicare card
- Be experiencing mental health symptoms identified by a GP as requiring support
Your GP will assess your needs and determine if you are eligible for a plan.
Conditions Commonly Covered
- Anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Eating disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Other recognised mental health conditions
When to Speak to a Doctor
Consider speaking to your GP if you experience:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Anxiety, worry, or panic attacks
- Trouble sleeping or eating
- Overwhelming stress or emotional exhaustion
- Difficulty coping with daily responsibilities
How to Get a Medicare Mental Health Plan
Here’s how to get started:
- Book a GP appointment and mention mental health as your reason
- Attend the consultation for an assessment
- Discuss your concerns and goals with your doctor
- Get a treatment plan tailored to your needs
- Receive a referral to a suitable mental health provider
Preparing for Your GP Appointment
To make the most of your consultation:
- List your symptoms and how long they’ve persisted
- Note any personal or work-related stress
- Consider your mental health goals
- Write down questions you want to ask
What Happens During the GP Consultation?
The GP will conduct a mental health assessment, ask about your emotional wellbeing, and collaborate with you on a treatment plan. You’ll also receive a referral to a registered provider who can support your mental health journey.
What Services Are Covered Under a Medicare Mental Health Plan?
The plan allows you to access:
- Clinical psychologists
- Registered psychologists
- Accredited mental health social workers
- Occupational therapists
- GP-led mental health services
You’re entitled to up to 10 subsidised sessions per year, which may be a mix of individual and group sessions.
Individual Therapy Sessions
These one-on-one sessions offer tailored psychological support. After Medicare rebates, your out-of-pocket cost depends on your provider’s fee.
Group Therapy Sessions
Group sessions offer support from peers facing similar issues. These are particularly effective for conditions like anxiety and social phobia and are generally more affordable than individual sessions.
How Much Will It Cost Me?
While Medicare provides rebates, a gap fee may apply depending on the provider’s rate. Here’s a rough guide:
| Service | Average Private Fee | Medicare Rebate | Out-of-pocket Cost |
| Clinical Psychologist | $180–$250 | $137.05 | $43–$113 |
| Registered Psychologist | $150–$200 | $93.35 | $56–$106 |
Bulk Billing Options
Some providers bulk bill, meaning Medicare covers the entire cost. To find bulk-billing psychologists or counsellors:
- Ask your GP
- Search on HealthDirect or Services Australia
- Look for clinics advertising “Bulk Billing Available”
How to Make the Most of Your Medicare Mental Health Plan
To get the most value:
- Attend all your scheduled sessions
- Set realistic mental health goals with your therapist
- Review your plan with your GP as needed
- Request more sessions if eligible
Asking for a Plan Review
After your initial 6 sessions, you can return to your GP for a review. If needed, the GP can refer you for up to 4 additional sessions—totalling 10 per calendar year.
Setting Mental Health Goals
Work with your provider to set clear goals, such as:
- Reducing anxiety attacks
- Improving sleep patterns
- Managing work-related stress
- Building self-esteem
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
| Long waitlists | Ask your GP for multiple referral options or explore telehealth |
| Gap fees | Request bulk-billing providers |
| Stigma about mental health | Remember it’s normal to seek help—millions do |
| Regional access | Consider telehealth or online therapy options |
Future Changes to the Medicare Mental Health Plan
Recent discussions in Parliament have explored:
- Increasing the number of annual sessions
- Enhancing access to rural and remote services
- Integrating telehealth permanently
Stay updated via Services Australia for the latest information.
FAQs
What is included in a Medicare Mental Health Plan?
A GP consultation, mental health assessment, and a referral to subsidised therapy.
How many sessions are covered by Medicare?
Up to 10 individual or group sessions per year.
How do I know if I need a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
If you’re struggling emotionally or mentally, book a GP appointment to discuss your symptoms.
Can I choose my own psychologist under the plan?
Yes, as long as they’re registered and accept Medicare referrals.
Does Medicare cover online therapy or telehealth?
Yes, many mental health services are available via telehealth under the plan.
How much does a mental health session cost after the Medicare rebate?
It depends on the provider—expect to pay a gap fee unless the provider bulk bills.
Can I use my plan for counselling or life coaching?
Only registered mental health providers are covered—not general life coaches.
What happens after my initial sessions are used up?
You can return to your GP for a review and request additional sessions if eligible.
How often can I renew my Mental Health Plan?
Plans can be reviewed annually or more often if necessary.
Do all psychologists bulk bill under the Medicare Mental Health Plan?
No. Always confirm billing policies when booking.