Medicare and Australians Travelling Overseas

Medicare benefits are not available for treatment received overseas, however, the Australian Government has signed Reciprocal Health Care Agreements which means that as an Australian resident you are entitled to assistance with the cost of medical treatment in:

• New Zealand
• The United Kingdom
• The Republic of Ireland
• Sweden
• The Netherlands
• Finland
• Italy
• Malta
• Norway

Australia's Reciprocal Health Care Agreements with these countries cover any medically necessary treatment you require which may arise while in that country.

Will I need travel insurance?

Yes - you should take out suitable travel insurance covering you for the period that you will be away. Reciprocal Health Care Agreements do not replace the need for travel insurance.

More information about Medicare and Australians travelling overseas

Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements
Travelling overseas with PBS medicine