Bulk billing changes for general practice: expanded MBS incentives from 1 November
27 May 2025
Bulk billing changes for general practice start on 1 November, expanding MBS incentives to cover all Australians with a Medicare card.
The expanded eligibility means current bulk billing incentives payable to practices which bulk bill children under 16 years of age and patients with a Commonwealth concession card, will expand to include all Australians with a Medicare card.
Practices will also be able to choose if they wish to participate in the new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP).
New information on both of these bulk billing measures is now available on the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website, including frequently asked questions and details on eligible MBS services.
Additionally, all general practices registered for Practice Incentives Programs have been sent an individual letter outlining the financial benefits of bulk billing changes, via their Services Australia digital mailbox in the HPOS system.
The letter is unique to each practice, based on the practice’s billing information from 2024 available to Services Australia to estimate the financial impact for individual practices. Refer to this embedded link to ensure you receive important messages in HPOS.
Practices participating in the new BBPIP will receive an additional 12.5 per cent incentive payment on every $1 of MBS benefit earned from eligible services, split between the GP and the practice.
General practices can register to participate in the program from 1 November.
Accredited practices can prepare in advance by registering for MyMedicare now.
Instructions on how to register for MyMedicare are available on the Services Australia Health Professional Education Resources website.
To BBPIP or not to BBPIP?
In the leadup to 1 November, general practices in Australia will need to decide if they are going to participate in BBPIP and consider their own unique practice circumstances.
In considering their decision, practices may wish to reflect on a range of factors which may inform their decision or planning for these changes including:
- business models
- care models
- workforce
- patient characteristics and expectations
- appointment availability/demand
- practice infrastructure
For assistance, please reach out to your Practice Advancement Officer (PAO) or Practice Support Officer (PSO).