Healthcare in Perth


The national Medicare scheme provides free or subsidised healthcare and medicines once you register with the scheme. This should be a priority action once you arrive and settle in Perth: go to one of the local Medicare offices with your passport, travel documents and permanent residency visa.

Your Medicare card number and your card will be posted about 3 weeks later. While at the office ask for your copy of the excellent Information Kit (available in 18 languages and Braille) which explains the whole system, including benefits and payments.

Residents from Ireland, Italy, Finland, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom are eligible for free treatment due to their reciprocal health agreements with the Australian governments.

Until you are granted Permanent Residency you are liable to all medical bills so it may be a good idea to have private insurance to cover you during the interim. Although private healthcare is inevitably expensive you can claim 30 percent of your premiums back on your tax bill. Visit this site to compare the costs and benefits of various Australian health providers: www.iselect.com.au

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