Prescription subsidy scheme

If you’ve paid for 20 prescriptions in a year (from 1 February), you do not have to pay any more prescription charges for the rest of that year (to 31 January).

Who can get the subsidy

You’re eligible for a prescription subsidy once you or your family have paid for and collected 20 new prescriptions.

They must be:

  • paid for on or after 1 February in any year
  • for medicines that are funded by the government.

If you live with a partner or any dependent children under 18, their prescriptions also count towards the total of 20 you need before you can get the prescription subsidy.

Most prescriptions for children under 14 are free and do not count towards the total.

What is not included

The subsidy does not include:

  • any remedies, supplements or medicines that you buy without a prescription
  • any medicines that are not funded by the government — you still pay the full cost of these.

You can check online, or with your pharmacist or doctor to find out which medicines have extra charges.

Schedule of medicines subsidised by government

How you get the subsidy

Your pharmacist gives you the subsidy when you visit them to get your medicine, if you’re eligible.

They check electronic records to see how many prescriptions you (and any eligible family members) have paid for since 1 February. If you have paid for at least 20 items you can get the subsidy.

Any pharmacy can check your eligibility.

Note: Check that your pharmacist knows the names and ages of all the people in your family.

Related services

You may pay less for doctor’s visits if you have a High Use Health Card. You can get one if you visit your doctor more than 12 times a year for an illness or ongoing health concerns.

High Use Health Card

If you’re on a low income, a Community Services Card can help you and your family with healthcare costs.

Community Services Card

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact one of the following agencies.

Utility links and page information

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