Australia has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, which means UK residents are able to get some healthcare services without charge while visiting Australia.
Treatment at public hospitals is free, but you'll have to pay for:
- treatment at most doctors' surgeries
- prescribed medicines
- ambulance travel
- dental treatment
Essential documents
You'll need to have proof you are a lawful resident in the UK. You should be able to present either a UK or EEA passport, or a document granting you permission to reside in the UK, as well as a proof of address, such as utility bills or a UK driving licence. You'll also need to enrol at a local Medicare office. You can do this either before or after your treatment.
Some treatment charges may be partially refunded by the Medicare scheme. You are advised to make a claim while still in Australia, but you can contact Medicare from the UK if you were not able to enrol during your stay in Australia.
To enrol on the Medicare scheme or make a claim, you should complete a Medicare enrolment application form or a Medicare claim form. These are available at www.humanservices.gov.au by searching for Medicare forms.
Forms should be returned to Medicare Australia, together with any accounts or receipts, at the following address:
Medicare Public Eligibility Section
Millar Ground
Medicare Australia
PO Box 1001
Tuggeranong ACT 2901
Australia
You should always arrange sufficient healthcare cover and travel insurance before you go abroad.
Your health, your choices