What Is a Mental Health Treatment Plan in Australia?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), formerly called a Mental Health Care Plan, is a Medicare-subsidised programme in Australia that gives eligible patients access to up to 10 subsidised psychology sessions per calendar year, plus GP care coordination. The Department of Health and Beyond Blue both describe it as one of the most useful supports available for people managing mental health conditions.

What the MHTP covers

Under the current programme, eligible patients receive Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year (with the option of additional sessions for exceptional circumstances). Group therapy sessions are also covered. Your GP prepares the plan, refers you to a mental health professional (psychologist, mental health social worker, or occupational therapist), and reviews progress at defined intervals.

Who is eligible

Adults and children with a diagnosed mental health condition eligible under Medicare criteria. Common qualifying conditions include depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and adjustment disorders. Your GP assesses eligibility during a longer consultation designed for mental health assessment.

How to access one

Book a longer GP appointment (often called a 'mental health consultation' or 'long consultation'). Some clinics have specific mental-health-trained GPs. During the appointment, your GP completes the plan and provides a referral to a psychologist or other mental health professional. The plan is valid for 12 months and can be renewed after a review consultation.

What to flag to your prescriber

Raise these at any review

Uncertainty about whether you are eligible.
Difficulty getting a long GP appointment.
Any concern about the referral fit.
Situations where the 10 sessions per year are not enough.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Mental Health Treatment Plan cost?

The GP consultation is bulk-billed by many clinics; the plan itself has no cost. Psychology sessions have a Medicare rebate that reduces the out-of-pocket cost — many psychologists bulk-bill or charge a gap payment.

How long does the plan last?

12 months, with the option to renew after a review consultation with your GP.

Can I use the plan to see a psychiatrist?

The MHTP itself is for psychology sessions. Psychiatrist appointments have separate Medicare item numbers and typically require a referral from your GP.