Migrants + Visitors

Victoria's population is made up of people from all over the world.

For many visitors and migrants, accessing healthcare can be a different experience to your home country. Victoria might have different laws, processes and services compared to countries overseas. 

Visitors

For visitors coming to Victoria temporarily (eg tourists and working holiday visa holders), it is important to have healthcare cover as you will not be covered under Australia’s public Medicare system. You may need to buy private health insurance before you arrive. Also, not all private health care plans will cover sexual and reproductive health services, such as pregnancy care, abortion, and contraception options, so check your policy.

Reciprocal Health Care Agreements 

Australia has an agreement with 11 countries worldwide, to cover the cost of “medically necessary care” when visitors from these countries visit Australia. These countries include: Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Ireland, Slovenia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

Unfortunately, not all sexual and reproductive health services may be considered “medically necessary,” so if you think you may need additional services, look into buying private health insurance.

Migrants

For long-term migrants (such as permanent residents) to Australia, you may be eligible for healthcare under Australia’s public Medicare system.  

You can also find information specific to international students or asylum seekers and refugees on our website. 

English Language Supports 

If you need support in languages other than English, ask your health service for an interpreter.

Workers at GP clinics, hospitals and pharmacies can access free Translating and Interpreting Services for anyone in Australia with a Medicare card. Interpreting services can be used for:  

• arranging appointments 
• medical treatment 
• providing medical test results