Medicare
You access Medicare funded allied health services if you hold a valid Medicare card and have a valid referral from your doctor.
Why would I get a referral through Medicare?
Medicare offers rebates for your therapy sessions, reducing financial barriers to accessing support.
How do I claim my rebate?
After you have had your appointment, and once you have made full payment our reception team will process your claim to Medicare. Rebates are generally issued to your nominated bank account within 48 hours.
Can I claim private health cover as well as a Medicare rebate?
Unfortunately, you can not claim though a Medicare program as well as private health insurance for the same session. However, once you have used all of your Medicare rebates, you can continue services with private health (or visa versa).
Mental Health Treatment Plans - “The Better Access Initiative”
Who can refer me?
Your treating General Practitioner (GP), Psychiatrist or Paediatrician.
How many sessions are included?
Initial referral gives you up to 6 sessions. If required, your referring doctor can complete an additional referral for 4 more sessions (That is a total of 10 sessions per calendar year).
How much does Medicare Cover for each session?
The Medicare rebate for a standard consult with an occupational therapist under this referral is $87.25 (current April 2026)
Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder Assessment & Treatment Plans
Who can refer me?
Your treating General Practitioner (GP), Psychiatrist or Paediatrician.
How many sessions are included?
Your doctor may include up to 4 allied health assessment services in your initial plan (if clinically required, you may be eligible for an additional 4 sessions for assessment).
An initial treatment plan referral enables up to 10 treatment sessions (you may be eligible for an additional 10 sessions following exhaustion of your first treatment plan. This is a total of 20 treatment sessions in your lifetime).
See Services Australia’s Flow Chart of Services to learn more about how this initiative works.
How much does Medicare Cover for each session?
The Medicare rebate for a standard consult with an occupational therapist under this program is $87.25 (current April 2026).
What is this referral type & who is eligible?
This program provides an early intervention pathway for individuals under the age of 25 years for assessment and treatment of complex neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism. To find out if your diagnosis is covered, visit The Department of Health, Disability and Aging’s Diagnosis and treatment for eligible disabilities – Fact sheet.
Chronic Management Plans
Who can refer me?
Your treating General Practitioner (GP), Psychiatrist or Paediatrician.
How many sessions are included?
You can access up to 5 sessions per calendar year among your allied health team.
How much does Medicare Cover for each session?
The Medicare rebate for a standard consult with an occupational therapist under this program is $61.80 (current April 2026)
For more information, visit Services Australia.
How long is my referral valid? When Does it expire?
Referrals are valid for 2 years.
Medicare Safety Net
The Medicare Safety Net helps reduce your out-of-pocket costs once you’ve spent a certain amount on out-of-hospital services (like GP visits, specialist appointments, or allied health) in a calendar year. After you reach the threshold, Medicare will pay a higher rebate—so you get more back. This can be especially helpful if you or your family need frequent medical or therapy appointments. You can register as a family to combine your medical expenses and reach the threshold sooner. For more information, visit Department of Health & Aged Care.
