Better Access Initiative
Department of Health and Aged Care
Administered by the Australian government, the Better Access initiative gives Medicare rebates to help people access mental health professionals and care, regardless of where they live. It aims to encourage more people to seek support for their mental ill-health. Support is available from eligible general practitioners (GPs) and other medical practitioners, psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists. Eligible people can receive up to 10 individual and up to 10 group allied mental health services each year. To access these sessions, both a Mental Health Treatment Plan prepared by a GP and an appropriate referral is required.