New Medicare Telehealth Service Launched for Mild Mental Health Support
01 Apr 2026
The service, called Medicare Mental Health Check-In, is available to anyone aged 16 and over and does not require a GP referral.
The program provides low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy (LiCBT) through St Vincent’s Health Australia and aims to help people with emerging mental illness or temporary distress. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said it will help people early, prevent more serious issues, and ease pressure on the mental health system. Around 150,000 people a year are expected to use the service.
However, some GPs have raised concerns about how the service fits into existing care. Dr Karen Spielman, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Psychological Medicine, said telehealth alone may not be enough for early intervention and emphasised the importance of linking the service back to skilled practitioners in the community.
“It needs to connect with GPs, have proper communication, and allow people to step up or down care as needed,” she said.
The $588.5 million service will run over eight years from 2024–25 and is designed to support people before they need full psychological therapy, giving advice and guidance to get them back on track.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: Federal Government / St Vincent’s Health Australia