British citizens moving to Australia are eligible for medically necessary care under a reciprocal health agreement, but many routine health services are not covered. The agreement provides for medically necessary care in public hospitals and some Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme prescriptions.
However, the agreement does not extend to ambulance services, most dental examinations and treatments, most physiotherapy, chiropractic, podiatry, psychology, glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids. While eye tests by an optometrist are covered, the cost of glasses is not.
To qualify for the reciprocal agreement, individuals must have been living in the UK before arriving in Australia. Student visa holders are eligible, but those travelling specifically for medical treatment are not. Enrolment can be done online or via a Medicare form, requiring a visa, passport, and proof of UK residence, such as a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or two dated documents.
Many Australians opt for 'extras cover' (also known as general or ancillary cover) to help with the costs of these excluded services. This type of insurance covers routine out-of-hospital treatments like dental, optical, and physiotherapy. As of March 2025, more than 55% of Australians held extras cover.