How to Get a Mental Health Care Plan
…and what the Medicare Better Access Initiative Can Do for You
Mental health challenges are more common than many of us realise. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 Australians aged 16–85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year, with anxiety being the most common. These statistics show just how many people are quietly struggling—and how important it is that help is both available and accessible.
The Medicare Better Access initiative was introduced to do just that: make mental health support easier to access, so people can get the care they need earlier, with fewer barriers.
What Is the Medicare Better Access Initiative?
The Better Access initiative allows people with a diagnosed mental health condition to access Medicare rebates for sessions with psychologists, social workers, or occupational therapists. This means part of the cost is covered, making treatment more affordable.
You can find more information on the official Australian Government website here:
👉 Better Access Initiative – Department of Health
How Can It Help Me?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, down, or struggling with life changes, this program may allow you to access:
Up to 10 individual therapy sessions per calendar year
Up to 10 group therapy sessions per year, if recommended
A structured plan to support your mental wellbeing
What Conditions Are Covered?
You may be eligible for support under the Better Access scheme if you’re dealing with:
Depression
Anxiety disorders
Stress-related conditions
OCD
PTSD
Panic disorder or phobias
Adjustment disorders
Sleep difficulties related to mental health
Grief or loss
Substance use disorders
Eating disorders
How Do I Get a Mental Health Care Plan?
Book a longer appointment with your GP to talk about your mental health.
Your GP will assess your situation and, if appropriate, create a Mental Health Care Plan.
You’ll receive a referral to a mental health professional.
You can begin seeing the professional of your choice.
💡 You don’t have to see the person named on the referral. You can choose your own Psychologist as long as they’re registered with Medicare.
Do These Plans Expire?
No—Mental Health Care Plans do not expire. But your Medicare-supported sessions reset every calendar year (January to December). After your first 6 sessions, you’ll return to your GP for a review, and they may approve up to 4 more sessions that year.
How Do I Check How Many Sessions I Have Left?
You can check how many sessions you’ve used by:
Logging into your MyGov account
Going to the Medicare section
Clicking on 'History and Statements' → 'Medicare Claims History'
You’ll see a list of services that have been claimed and how many sessions you've used so far.
Accessing Help Beyond the Better Access Initiative
While the Better Access initiative is one of the most widely used pathways to affordable mental health care in Australia, it’s not the only one. Support is also available through other referral types such as Chronic Disease Management Plans, Private Health Insurance, NDIS funding, and community mental health services. If you’re unsure where to start, your GP can guide you through the options available for your situation.
And if you or someone you know needs immediate support, help is always available. You’re not alone.
24/7 Mental Health Support Lines:
Lifeline – 13 11 14 (Crisis support and suicide prevention)
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (Anxiety and depression support)
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 (Support for young people aged 5 to 25)
13 YARN – 13 92 76 (Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)
Mental Health Line (NSW) – 1800 011 511 (For advice and access to local mental health services)
Reaching out is a powerful act of self-care. Support is not only available—it’s your right.
