New National Service ‘1800MEDICARE’ Promotes 24/7 Free Health Advice
02 Jun 2026
The service can be accessed by phone, website, or mobile app, and connects callers with a registered nurse who assesses symptoms and guides patients to the most appropriate level of care.
Depending on the situation, patients may be advised to manage their condition at home, visit a GP, attend a pharmacy, go to a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, or seek emergency department care.
The Government says the service is intended as an accessible first point of contact for health advice, particularly for people who may face barriers accessing in-person care, including after-hours or location-related challenges.
1800MEDICARE is available nationwide, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and does not require a Medicare card to use.
The campaign will be promoted across television, social media, print and digital platforms, with targeted messaging for First Nations and multicultural communities to improve accessibility and awareness.
New National Service ‘1800MEDICARE’ Promotes 24/7 Free Health Advice
Source: Australian Government – 1800MEDICARE campaign