Australia’s bulk-billing rate has fallen to 20.7% at the start of 2025, down from 35.7% two years prior, with an average out-of-pocket cost of $43.38 for patients, marking a 4% increase year-on-year, reports michaelwest.com.au.

A survey by Cleanbill identified a total absence of bulk-billing clinics for new adult patients in Tasmania, which also reported the highest out-of-pocket expenses at $54.26.

Health Minister Mark Butler contested these figures, asserting the government’s record investment had improved bulk-billing rates.