Medicare and Reciprocal Health Care Agreements
Medicare is the publicly funded universal health care insurance scheme in Australia. The scheme either partially or fully covers the cost of most health care, with services being delivered by state and territory governments or private enterprises.
Enrolment in Medicare is not just for Australian citizens and permanent residents. International visitors from 11 countries that have Reciprocal Health Care Agreements are partially or fully covered under Medicare for medically necessary treatment.
The Reciprocal Health Care Agreements allow eligible visitors to access essential medical care while in Australia—and at the same time enable Australians to receive similar care when visiting these countries.
Medically necessary treatment
Including:
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As a public patient in a public hospital for urgent care for illnesses or injuries that cannot wait until you return home.
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Out of hospital services covered by Medicare.
Subsidised prescription medicines
Under the:
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Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
Overseas Visitors Hospital Cover (OVHC)
Ideal if you want broader medical protection, including access to private hospital care, ambulance cover and more. We have a range of hospital covers for those who are working or those who are just vising for holidays.
Looking to buy Overseas Visitor Cover?
Extras Cover
Get support for everyday health needs outside the hospital or GP’s clinics, not covered by Medicare, such as dental, physiotherapy, optical, and more. The good news? If you hold a Medicare card, you may be eligible to reduce the premiums on your Extras Cover by applying for the Australian Government Rebate on private health insurance. This rebate is income-tested and can help make your cover more affordable.
Looking to buy an Extras Cover?
Do you earn income in Australia?
If you're an overseas visitor covered under a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement and earning income in Australia, you may be subject to the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS)—just like Australian residents. The MLS is an additional tax applied to higher-income earners who do not hold eligible private hospital cover.
