Guide to Getting a Mental Health Care Plan in 2026 | Medicare Rebates
MHD Editorial Team · 4 February 2026
Seeking support is a big step, and for many Australians, the first question is: "Can I afford this?" The Australian Government has a program called the Better Access Initiative designed to make mental health care more affordable.
Seeing a GP is a critical step in getting a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), which allows you to access Medicare rebates that significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a professional.
What Exactly is a Mental Health Care Plan?
Your GP creates a formal document called a Mental Health Treatment Plan, sometimes referred to as a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). It is a roadmap for your care that outlines your goals and the type of support you need.
What it gives you in 2026:
- 10 Rebated Individual Sessions: Access to Medicare rebates for up to 10 one-on-one sessions per calendar year.
- Group Therapy: Access to rebates for up to 10 group therapy sessions (in addition to individual ones).
- Telehealth Eligibility: You can use these sessions for in-person or video consultations.
The 2026 Rebate Breakdown
The amount Medicare pays back depends on the type of professional you see. As of the latest 2026 indexation:
- Clinical Psychologist: approximately $145.25 per session
- General Psychologist: approximately $98.95 per session
- Social Worker / Occupational Therapist: approximately $87.25 per session
Note: Many private clinics have a "Gap Fee", which is the difference between the total cost and the rebate. If you find a "Bulk Billing" provider, you will have no out-of-pocket costs.
Your 3-Step Guide to Getting the Plan
Step 1: The Long Appointment.
When you book with your GP, ask for a "Long Appointment" (usually 20 to 30 minutes). This gives the doctor enough time to complete the required assessment and paperwork without rushing.
Step 2: The Assessment.
Your GP will talk to you about your symptoms and history and may ask you to fill out a short questionnaire.
Step 3: The Referral.
Once the plan is created, your GP will write a referral letter. You can bring a specific practitioner name from our directory, or your GP can recommend a specialist.
Important 2026 Updates
The 6+4 Rule: Your first referral usually covers 6 sessions. After these are finished, you return to your GP for a brief "Mental Health Plan Review" to unlock the remaining 4 sessions for the year.
- MyMedicare: If you are registered with MyMedicare, ensure you see your registered practice to make the claim process seamless.
- Family Support: New 2026 items allow for limited rebated sessions where family members or carers can participate in your treatment process.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Mental Health Treatment Plan last?
You can only claim 10 rebated sessions per calendar year (Jan 1 to Dec 31). You will need a "Review" from your GP after the first 6 sessions to unlock the remaining 4.
Can I get a Mental Health Care Plan for couples counselling?
Generally, no. Medicare rebates are designed for individual treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition.
Does a Mental Health Plan cover the full cost of the session?
Not always. Unless the provider bulk bills, you will likely pay a gap fee.
Is there a difference between a Mental Health Treatment Plan and a Mental Health Care Plan?
No. These two terms refer to the same document. The official Medicare term is a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP).