With a federal election coming in May 2025, Medicare and bulk billing are hot topics once again.
Keeping up with regulatory changes is essential for medical professionals and Practices, as these updates directly affect how you work and get remunerated.
We've included a comprehensive FAQ at the end of this article to address any questions you may have.
Changes reaffirmed in the Federal Budget.
In the 2025–26 Federal Budget, the Australian Government reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing bulk billing services by investing $7.9 billion. This investment aims to expand the triple bulk billing incentive to include all Medicare-eligible individuals starting from 1 November 2025. Practices that bulk bill all patients will also be eligible for an additional 12.5% loading on Medicare rebates.
The Coalition has pledged to match this investment if they are successful in the upcoming election.
These updates are designed to encourage more GP practices to adopt full bulk billing, thereby increasing accessibility and affordability of healthcare services across Australia.
The details on what’s changing.
From 1 November 2025, new rules around bulk billing will take effect, with initial support from both major political parties. The changes include:
1. New bulk billing practice incentive program.
The Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program will be introduced, which will provide additional financial support to Practices that commit to fully bulk billing all patients.
2. Expanded bulk billing eligibility.
- Currently, GPs receive incentive payments for bulk billing of children under 16 and concession cardholders.
- From November 2025, this incentive will extend to cover all Medicare-eligible patients.
- The goal is to increase accessibility and encourage more Practices to adopt bulk billing.
What will participating Practices receive?
- An extra 12.5% loading payment for every $1 earned through MBS benefits.
- Quarterly incentive payments, with payment split between the GP and the Practice.
- Marketing support to help you promote your bulk billing services.
To be eligible for the program, you must:
✔ Fully bulk bill all general practice non-referred attendance (GP NRA) services.
✔ Advertise your participation in the program.
✔ Be registered with MyMedicare.
How will payments work?
- Quarterly payments will be made to participating GPs and practices, beginning in early 2026.
- No need to track bulk billing data manually – Services Australia will handle monitoring, and quarterly payments will be processed automatically.
What’s next?
These changes are designed to improve patient access to healthcare while ensuring that medical Practices are financially supported. If your Practice is considering joining the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program, now is the time to review your eligibility requirements and weigh up the financial benefits.
Talk to one of our expert team members today to stay informed and make sure your practice is ready for the upcoming changes.
FAQ – What this means for you.
Can I still claim bulk billing incentive payments if I don’t join the program?
Yes, you can still claim the standard incentive items for any patient you bulk bill, even if your Practice does not participate in the program.
Is joining the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program mandatory?
No, the program is voluntary.
What if I work at multiple practices?
You only need to participate in the program at registered Practices. If one Practice is in the program and another isn’t, you will only receive incentive payments at the participating Practice.
What services must be bulk billed under the program?
All general practice non-referred attendance (GP NRA) services must be bulk billed for every patient to qualify for the program.
How often will I receive payments?
Payments will be made quarterly, with the first round expected in early 2026.
How will payments be split?
- A portion of the incentive will go directly to the GP.
- The rest will be paid to the Practice.
Do I need to submit extra paperwork to receive payments?
No, payments will be automated and handled through Services Australia, ensuring a streamlined process with minimal administrative burden.
Megan is a Partner in Cutcher & Neale’s Specialist Medical Services Division and has over 20 years of industry experience.
Megan is an expert in the taxation field, with a niche specialisation in advising medical professionals.
