UK citizens relocating to Australia are eligible for medically necessary care through a reciprocal health agreement. This covers public hospital care, both inpatient and outpatient, and certain Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme prescriptions at the general rate.
However, the agreement does not extend to several common health services. These exclusions include most dental examinations and treatments, most physiotherapy, chiropractic, podiatry, and psychology services. Glasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids are also not covered, although eye tests by an optometrist are.
Ambulance services are another significant exclusion, with costs varying by state. To cover these gaps, many Australians purchase 'extras cover', which helps with routine out-of-hospital treatments like dental, optical, and physiotherapy. As of March 2025, more than 55% of Australians held this type of cover.
To qualify for the reciprocal agreement, individuals must have been living in the UK before arriving in Australia. A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or two dated documents proving UK residence, such as a bank statement and a utility bill, are required for enrolment. Cover begins on the day of arrival and ends when the visa expires.