What will it cost?

How do referrals, Medicare rebates and other fees work?

You can receive financial discounts (or rebates) for services that can support you with anxiety, depression and other personal issues if you have a referral from a suitably qualified health professional such as a doctor (GP), a child psychiatrist or paediatrician.

When contacting a medical centre or health professional it’s important to check they provide bulk billing through Medicare.

Some services charge fees on top of Medicare benefits but they may offer a discount for health care card holders (e.g. students) or those with special circumstances. Some services are also covered by private health insurance. 

Talk about the fees when you first contact a health centre so you can be clear on what the costs are.

headspace centres

headspace provides information and services to 12-25 year olds, their families and friends through their website, headspace centres, eheadspace (online counselling service), the Digital Work and Study Service and headspace School Support, a post-vention suicide support program. 

Headspace centres across Australia offer a range of services for youth such as GPs, psychologists, counsellors, social workers and youth workers for free, or at a low cost. You can find your nearest headspace centre here.

You can ask if there is a cost when you make your appointment. Some services require you to have a referral from a doctor; but don't worry, headspace can help you with this as well. 

Doctors/General Practitioners (GPs) and other health professionals

Many doctors (GPs) bulk bill through Medicare, which means they charge the Government for your consultation and you don’t have to pay anything. You just need to show your Medicare card to reception before your appointment.

Doctors can be found at Headspace Centres, Medical Centres and Community Health Centres. These places usually allow bulk billing and don’t require an appointment, so you can just turn up, quote your Medicare number and see a doctor.

If it’s your first visit to a health centre, you will probably have to provide some personal contact details.

To find a centre in your area, look up ‘Community Health Services’ in the White Pages or visit findus.humanservices.gov.au

What can doctors do for me?

Doctors (GPs) can refer you to access a range of support services (e.g. psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors, social workers and youth workers etc.) for free or at a reduced cost through Medicare by creating a Mental Health Treatment Plan for you.

A Child Psychiatrist or Paediatrician can also provide these referrals for you. 

Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS)

The ATAPS program provides short-term support if you are experiencing mild to moderate mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

Through ATAPS, you can access up to 12 support sessions with a psychologist, clinical psychologist, social worker, or mental health nurse.

ATAPS is primarily designed for people on low incomes who are unable to access support due to financial reasons. You need to hold a current health care card and be referred by your doctor.