If you’re an Australian on a low income or experiencing financial hardship, the Centrelink Health Care Card can help ease your expenses and provide access to essential services at discounted rates. In 2025, this card continues to be a valuable resource, offering savings on prescription medications, healthcare services, public transport, and utilities in some states.
This guide will walk you through what the Health Care Card offers, who is eligible, and how to apply, ensuring you receive the full benefits available.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| What it is | A government-issued card providing discounts on medicines, health services, and essential living costs. |
| Eligibility | Low-income earners, people on Centrelink benefits, and some families with children. |
| Main Benefits | Discounts on PBS medications, health services (dental & optical), public transport, and utility bills. |
| How to Apply | Apply via myGov, Centrelink service centres, or phone. |
| Income Thresholds (2025) | Single: $563/week; Couple: $1,000/week; Family limits apply. |
| Official Source | Services Australia – Health Care Card |
The Health Care Card can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for eligible individuals and families, making essential services more accessible and affordable.
Centrelink Health Care Card
The Health Care Card is a government support program designed to assist low-income Australians by offering discounts on:
- Prescription medications through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
- Healthcare services, including dental and optical care
- Public transport fares in certain states
- Utility bills in some regions
If you are receiving a Centrelink benefit or earning a low income, the Health Care Card can help you manage rising living costs by making vital services more affordable.
Benefits
- Subsidized prescription drugs under the PBS
- In 2025, cardholders will pay $6.60 per prescription (compared to $15.50 for non-cardholders)
- Significant savings for those requiring regular medications
Discounted Health Services
- Reduced costs for dental check-ups, optical care (glasses, eye tests), physiotherapy, and allied health services
- Bulk-billing doctors may offer lower consultation fees for cardholders
Public Transport Concessions
- Reduced fares for buses, trains, and trams in states such as:
- Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland
- Some regional areas also offer free or discounted transport passes
Utility Discounts
- Reduced electricity, gas, and water bills in certain states
- Some providers offer concessions for essential services
Free or Discounted Medicine for Children
- PBS medication discounts extend to dependent children
- Ensures families save money on medical expenses
Local Discounts & Concessions
- School fee discounts in some states
- Cheaper council services, vehicle registration, and community programs
These benefits help low-income individuals and families reduce essential living costs, making everyday expenses more manageable.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Health Care Card, you must meet income limits and other eligibility criteria.
1. Income Limits
| Household Type | Maximum Weekly Income (2025) |
|---|---|
| Single | $563 per week |
| Couple (Combined) | $1,000 per week |
| Family with 1 Child | $1,220 per week |
| Family with 2 Children | $1,360 per week |
Income limits vary by household size—check the latest figures on the Services Australia website.
2. Automatic Eligibility
If you receive any of the following Centrelink benefits, you may automatically qualify for a Health Care Card:
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- Parenting Payment
3. Residency Requirements
- Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Must be living in Australia when applying
4. Special Circumstances
- Carers who receive Centrelink support may qualify
- Some low-income families with children may be eligible
If you are unsure about your eligibility, check with Services Australia or visit a Centrelink service centre for assistance.
How to Apply
- Log in to myGov
- Link your Centrelink account
- Submit an application through the Services Australia portal
Visit a Centrelink Service Centre
- If you prefer an in-person application, visit your nearest Centrelink office
- A Centrelink officer can help with the paperwork
Apply by Phone
- Call Services Australia to request a paper application
Automatic Issuance
- If you are already on a qualifying Centrelink benefit, you may receive the card automatically
Health Care Card Benefits
To get the most out of your Health Care Card, follow these tips:
- Ask for Discounts: Many healthcare providers, transport services, and utilities offer concessions for cardholders—always check before paying.
- Use Your Card for Family Savings: If you have children under 16, ensure they receive PBS medication discounts and health service reductions.
- Check State-Specific Benefits: Each state offers different transport and utility discounts—visit your state government’s website for more details.
The Centrelink Health Care Card is an essential support tool for low-income Australians and Centrelink beneficiaries. With savings on prescription medications, medical treatments, public transport, and utilities, it helps ease financial burdens and make essential services more affordable.
If you think you qualify, apply today through myGov, Centrelink, or phone to start saving on healthcare costs.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Health Care Card?
Low-income individuals and Centrelink benefit recipients such as JobSeeker or Disability Support Pension claimants.
What benefits does the Health Care Card offer?
Discounts on PBS medicines, healthcare services, public transport, and utility bills in some states.
How do I apply for the Health Care Card?
Apply online via myGov, visit a Centrelink service centre, or call Services Australia.
How much can I earn and still qualify?
Singles must earn less than $563/week, and couples must earn under $1,000/week.
Does the Health Care Card cover my children?
Yes, dependent children under 16 can receive medication and healthcare discounts.
