Frequently Asked Questions


What is MEDICARE in Australia?


If you are travelling in Australia and need medical treatment it is essential that you enrol with a local MEDICARE office. You do not need to enrol when you arrive, but you must do this after the first occasion you receive treatment. In-patient and out-patient treatment at a public hospital will then be available to you free of charge.


Details of how to enrol and the free treatment available can be found by visiting the MEDICARE website on www.medicareaustralia.gov.au or by emailing medicare@medicareaustralia.gov.au. Alternatively please call the Emergency Assistance Service for guidance.


If you are admitted to hospital you must contact the Emergency Assistance Service as soon as possible and get their authorisation for any treatment not available under MEDICARE.