What happens if I get sick while studying in Australia?

Australia has good healthcare infrastructure, and as an international student you have access to medical services through your mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

For GP visits (non-emergency):
- Find a bulk-billing doctor who accepts OSHC — many clinics near universities bulk-bill students, meaning little or no out-of-pocket cost
- Present your OSHC card and Medicare (if applicable)
- OSHC typically covers the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee for GP visits

For emergencies:
- Go to a hospital emergency department (public hospitals treat emergencies)
- OSHC covers medically necessary hospital treatment as a public patient
- Ambulance is covered by OSHC in most states (check your policy)

Mental health:
- Many universities offer free or subsidised counselling services for students
- Headspace and Beyond Blue offer free services nationally
- Your GP can refer you to a psychologist under a Mental Health Treatment Plan (up to 10 sessions rebated through Medicare — your OSHC may provide Medicare-equivalent cover)

Prescription medications:
- OSHC covers most PBS-listed medications at reduced cost
- You pay the patient co-payment (currently AUD 7.70 for concession, AUD 31.60 general)

What OSHC does NOT cover:
- Dental treatment (unless emergency)
- Optical/glasses
- Cosmetic procedures
- Most physiotherapy (unless hospital-referred)
- Pre-existing conditions in some cases — check your policy carefully

If you need to take time off study due to illness:
Notify your institution promptly and get a medical certificate. This can support an application to suspend your studies without breaching your visa conditions.