Bulk Billing Is Back in Sydney (2026): How Families Can Avoid GP Gap Fees

Last Updated on December 29, 2025 by Michael L

Here’s something I didn’t know — and it could save your family hundreds of dollars per year.

As a Sydney parent trying to manage rising costs, I’d almost given up on finding a bulk billing or “free” doctor. Over the past few years, I’ve watched local clinics quietly add $30, $40, even $50 gap fees — to the point where a simple script renewal feels like a hit to the weekly budget.

That’s why I’ve become more intentional about spotting small savings wherever I can which I’ve shared in my EatClub review. And it was with that mindset that I stumbled across something I genuinely didn’t expect this last week.

I was at my local shopping centre when a “Bulk Billing Practice” sign caught my eye — something I honestly hadn’t seen in years and assumed was long gone.

It turns out bulk billing is quietly making a comeback, thanks to recent changes to Medicare — and many Sydney families don’t even realise it yet.

The $7.9 Billion Change You Might Have Missed

On November 1, 2025, the Australian Government launched a massive overhaul of Medicare. Before this date, doctors only got “extra” help to bulk bill children and pensioners. Now, that has changed completely.

The new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) is the “secret sauce” behind the scenes. Here is how it works:

• Universal Access: Doctors can now claim government incentive payments to bulk bill any Medicare-eligible patient, not just kids or seniors.
• The 12.5% “Bonus”: Clinics that commit to bulk billing every patient for standard visits receive an additional 12.5% payment on top of their normal Medicare rebates.
• A “Win-Win” Model: This extra money is split 50/50 between the individual doctor and the clinic, making it financially possible for them to see you for free without going out of business.

How to Spot a “Medicare Bulk Billing Practice”

Not every clinic has joined this program (it’s voluntary), but the ones that have are legally required to make it easy for you to find them. Look for these three things:

1. The Signage: Participating clinics must display official “Medicare Bulk Billing Practice” signs on their doors.
2. The Healthdirect Directory: You can search the National Health Services Directory and filter for “Bulk Billing Only.”
3. MyMedicare Registration: While not always mandatory, some clinics may ask you to register with them via the MyMedicare app to secure your bulk billing status.

Below are some clinics currently bulk billing but please note the status can change, so always confirm with the clinic before booking

• Chatswood Medical and Dental Centre
• Our Medical Crows Nest
• North Sydney Plaza Medical Centre
• MPark Family Medical practice
• Katherine Street Medical Practice

The Smart “Hybrid” Strategy for Families

I’ve realized that the best way to manage my family’s health and budget is to use two different types of care:

• For the “Basics”: For scripts, referrals, or minor issues, I look for a BBPIP-registered clinic. These are often high-volume practices in shopping centers or near train stations that are perfect for a 10-minute “in and out” visit.
• For the “Big Stuff”: For complex issues or long-term family history, you might still choose to pay a gap fee at a private boutique clinic. The key is that you now have a choice.

What’s the “Catch”?

It’s important to know that the new 12.5% incentive primarily covers standard consultations (the 10–20 minute visits we usually need). It may not cover specialised procedures like skin checks, minor surgeries, or IUD insertions.

Always ask at reception: “Is this specific appointment covered under the bulk billing incentive?”

The Bottom Line

With over 2,600 practices across Australia expected to go fully bulk-billing under this new scheme, you no longer have to accept that a trip to the GP will cost you $30-$50 out of pocket.

By spending five minutes checking the directory, you could save your family enough for a nice weekend lunch—or just some much-needed breathing room in the budget.

Quick FAQs for Parents

Is bulk billing really free?

Yes — if the clinic is registered and your appointment type is covered, there should be no out-of-pocket cost.

Do I need a concession card?

No. Under the new incentive, clinics can bulk bill any Medicare-eligible patient.

Can bulk billing clinics change later?

Yes. Always confirm when booking.