There is no single Indigenous mental health payment. Instead, a few Medicare and Commonwealth programs fit together to make psychology far more affordable. In the Northern Territory, your local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service can help you access all of them in one trusted place. Telehealth also extends culturally safe support across Darwin, Alice Springs and remote communities.
Someone to yarn with: 13YARN (13 92 76) is staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis supporters, any time. You can also call the NT Mental Health Line on 1800 682 288. In an emergency, call 000.
Start with the free annual 715 health check at your local Aboriginal Medical Service or a bulk-billing GP. It unlocks referral for up to ten rebated allied-health sessions a year, double the usual five, and these can include psychology. Ask about Closing the Gap registration so any medication is cheaper too.
Your local Aboriginal Medical Service can do the 715 check, write the referral, and arrange follow-up, often bulk-billed. The rebated sessions fund treatment rather than a one-off assessment, so ask for a quote if an assessment is your goal. For the full guide, read Medicare-funded mental health support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Not a single payment. The 715 check, up to ten rebated sessions a year, Closing the Gap, and the Mental Health Treatment Plan work together to lower costs.
Your local Aboriginal Medical Service is the best first stop. They can do the free 715 check, write referrals, and often bulk-bill.
Yes. Telehealth brings support to Darwin, Alice Springs and remote communities, which helps in regional and remote areas.
Usually not on its own. The sessions fund treatment rather than a one-off assessment, so ask for a quote.
Important: This is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. If you are in crisis, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or the NT Mental Health Line on 1800 682 288. In an emergency, call 000.
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