Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander mental health support in Victoria

Summary

• A free 715 health check unlocks up to ten rebated allied-health sessions a year, which can include psychology.
• Your local Aboriginal Medical Service in VIC is the best first stop, and many bulk-bill.
• Closing the Gap lowers medication costs, and telehealth reaches Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat and regional Victoria.

There is no single Indigenous mental health payment. Instead, a few Medicare and Commonwealth programs fit together to make psychology far more affordable. In Victoria, 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 Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat and regional Victoria.

Someone to yarn with: 13YARN (13 92 76) is staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis supporters, any time. You can also call SuicideLine Victoria on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline 13 11 14. In an emergency, call 000.

How the funding fits together

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.

Getting started in VIC

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.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a special mental health rebate for Aboriginal people in VIC?

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.

Where do I start in Victoria?

Your local Aboriginal Medical Service is the best first stop. They can do the free 715 check, write referrals, and often bulk-bill.

Can I get culturally safe support by telehealth in VIC?

Yes. Telehealth brings support to Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat and regional Victoria, which helps in regional and remote areas.

Does the rebate cover a full assessment?

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 SuicideLine Victoria on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline 13 11 14. In an emergency, call 000.