What is this?

The Extended Medicare Safety Net is a government scheme that can dramatically reduce the gap you have to pay for your healthcare once your family’s total out-of-pocket spending reaches a set threshold every year. Once this threshold is reached, the government will pay for 80% of your future out of pocket costs for the rest of the calendar year.
This resets on the 1st of Jan.

General threshold amount
$2,699.10

Concession card holders and families receiving the family tax benefit part A
$861.20

You reach your threshold when you pay a gap on a medicare rebatable service such as doctor appointments, pathology testing, imaging services and allied health services. Bulk billing does not help you to reach your threshold.

Registering your family lets you pool everyone’s gaps together to hit the threshold faster.

How to register and monitor

Individuals (no dependants): You are automatically covered — nothing to do.

Couples and families: You must register once with Services Australia so your gaps can be combined.

• Download and complete the Medicare Safety Net Registration and Amendment form (MS016)

  • Or register online through your myGov account (link your Medicare card)

  • Or phone Services Australia on 13 20 11

Registration is free and only needs updating if your family situation changes (e.g. new baby, child turns 25, separation).

To monitor your progress towards hitting the threshold:

1. Link your Medicare card to your myGov account.

2. Log in to myGov → Medicare → View your Medicare Safety Net balance.

3. You can also call Services Australia or ask our reception staff to direct you