Bulk billing explained: what it means and what it covers
What bulk billing means, who is eligible, and what can still attract a fee.
Bulk billing is one of the most searched terms in Australian health care, and it is easy to see why. Knowing what a visit will cost before you go makes it easier to see a doctor when you need to.
What is bulk billing?
When a service is bulk billed, the practice claims the Medicare benefit directly from the government and accepts it as full payment. You do not pay anything for that service, and there is nothing to claim back.
Who is eligible?
To be bulk billed for a Medicare service, you need to be eligible for Medicare and have a valid Medicare card, or your card details in the Medicare app. Visitors from countries with a reciprocal health care agreement may be eligible for some services. People who are not eligible for Medicare pay a private fee.
What is a Bulk Billing Practice?
Since 1 November 2025, the Australian Government’s Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program has supported general practices that bulk bill all eligible patients. Practices in the program can display the official Medicare Bulk Billing Practice mark. Aberdeen Surgery is a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice, and GP consultations are bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card.
What can still attract a fee?
Bulk billing covers services that Medicare pays for. Some things are not covered by Medicare and can attract a private fee, for example:
- Pre-employment, insurance and driver medical assessments.
- WorkCover and third-party insurance consultations.
- Reports, letters and forms prepared for a third party.
- Transfer of records from another practice, where that practice charges for it.
- Vaccines you buy privately, including many travel vaccines.
- Consumables used in some procedures.
- Some private services, such as ADHD assessment and management at Aberdeen Surgery.
- Services from other providers, such as pathology, imaging, allied health and specialists, who set their own fees.
Always ask first
If you are not sure whether something is bulk billed, ask when you book. At Aberdeen Surgery, reception will tell you about any fee before your appointment, so there are no surprises on the way out. Call (02) 6543 8424 or see the cost guide.
MyMedicare
MyMedicare is a free, voluntary program that links you with your regular practice. It does not change your eligibility for bulk billing, but it can give access to some services, such as longer telehealth consultations. Ask reception about registering.