Bulk-billing rates are rebounding across Australia, marking the first significant impact of the Albanese government’s $8.5 billion investment in Medicare. New figures show the bulk-billing rate for all Australians rose to 81.4 percent between November 2025 and January of this year.
Increased Access to Bulk Billing
This represents an increase from the 77.6 percent rate recorded in the July to September quarter of the previous year. According to the government, Here’s the largest quarterly increase on record outside of the COVID-19 pandemic, when mandatory bulk-billing for vaccine consultations artificially inflated the rates.
Health Minister Mark Butler stated, “We promised Australians more bulk-billing and that is what we have delivered.” He added that more Australians are now able to locate a doctor who bulk bills in every state and territory, and that practices are returning to bulk billing since it benefits both patients and their businesses.
The government’s policy, implemented in November, provides financial incentives to GPs who bulk bill patients. For a standard consultation in metropolitan areas, the Medicare payment now totals approximately $63.50.
Incentives and Concerns
Practices that bulk bill all patients receive an additional quarterly payment of 12.5 percent of their Medicare billing as a further incentive. As of recently, there are over 3,400 Medicare Bulk Billing Practices nationwide, with 1,300 having switched from mixed billing.
Though, some skepticism remains regarding the government’s long-term goal. Concerns have been raised that the incentives could lead to shorter consultations and potentially compromise the quality of care. Some doctors also argue that the incentives may not fully cover the costs associated with bulk-billing all patients.
Looking Ahead
The Albanese government has not revealed any interim targets for bulk-billing rates between now and 2030, which extends beyond the next election cycle. It remains to be seen whether the current trajectory will continue and if the government’s ambitious goal of nine out of ten GP visits being bulk billed will be achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the bulk-billing rate between July and September of last year?
The bulk-billing rate for the July to September quarter last year was 77.6 percent.
What is the purpose of the government’s new incentives?
The incentives are aimed at encouraging doctors to provide services at no cost to patients, increasing access to healthcare.
What is the additional quarterly payment offered to practices that fully bulk bill?
Practices that bulk bill all patients receive an additional quarterly payment equal to 12.5 percent of their Medicare billing.
Will these changes ultimately lead to a more accessible and affordable healthcare system for all Australians?
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