On November 1, 2025, changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) came into effect that are intended to significantly reduce barriers to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in Australia.
These changes will see long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) become more affordable and accessible for patients, particularly those in vulnerable communities who may otherwise face barriers to SRH care. These changes are informed by recommendations from the MBS Review Advisory Committee, and were announced by in February 2025 as part of Strengthening Medicare Women’s Health Package.
The key updates include:
Expanded access and new items
Midwives:
- Now able to request ultrasounds.
Nurse Practitioners:
- “Established clinical relationship” telehealth requirement no longer applies for BBV/SRH consultations.
- Three new MBS item numbers introduced for LARC procedures:
- 82201- IUD Insertion
- 82202- Implanon removal
- 82203- Implanon Insertion
Increased rebates for LARC procedures
Consultation and item | Former rebate | Updated rebate |
IUD insertion (35503) | $93.55 | $215.95 |
Implanon insertion (14206) | $41.50 | $100.40 |
Implanon removal (30062) | $70.85 | $105.15 |
New 40% bulk billing for LARC services
A 40% loading applies to LARC consultations that are fully bulk billed (including associated items such as 23).
Provider | 40% loading item | Eligible LARC items |
General practitioner | 35501 | 14206, 30062, 35503 |
Nurse practitioner | 82204 | 82201, 82202, 82203 |
With these changes, practices will have the opportunity to strategically review their billing models and explore how bulkbilling can improve patient access and affordability. Though there are multiple factors for each practice to consider, with financial sustainability remaining a key focus, these updates will provide greater access to LARC and SRH services for more Australians.
To increase the number and distribution of qualified health professionals able to provide LARC, Sexual and Reproductive Health Australia is offering a range of national scholarships to upskill health workers in LARC provision. To find out more about these scholarships, click here.
ASHM’s series of resources and training on contraceptives in healthcare can be found here.
