What the benefits are

A Health Care Card entitles you to cheaper prescription medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

You may be eligible for other concessions. Some of these concessions may be available for a dependent child.

Benefits could include:

  • bulk billing for doctor’s appointments, as decided by your doctor
  • more refunds for medical expenses through the Medicare Safety Net
  • discounted mail redirection through Australia Post.

Some state and territory governments and local council areas offer other benefits if you have a Health Care Card. Check with your local area to see what benefits they offer. For example they may offer lower rates for these types of expenses:

  • electricity and gas bills
  • property and water rates
  • healthcare costs, including ambulance, dental and eye care
  • public transport fares.

Find out about concessions available in your state or territory on their websites:

Private companies may also offer you concessions if you show them your card.

When you use Medicare services, you need to show your Medicare card.

Page last updated: 16 April 2025.
QC 39581