Australia’s Virtual Care Shake-Up: What’s Changing?

New Medicare rules aim to boost access and modernise virtual care delivery nationwide

10 Jul 2025

Australia’s healthcare system is set for rapid modernisation as new Medicare telehealth reforms take effect from July 1, 2025. The overhaul introduces simpler Chronic Condition Management Plans and raises telehealth consultation fees by 2.4 per cent, reflecting efforts to modernise funding and improve access to care.

The reforms are designed to embed virtual care more deeply into everyday healthcare, offering new opportunities to expand services, especially in rural and remote areas.

Healthcare technology providers are moving quickly to support this shift. Best Practice Software and MedicalDirector are upgrading billing systems, while Coviu and Telstra Health are rolling out advanced digital tools to simplify compliance and enable more effective remote consultations.

Policymakers expect the clearer billing structure and improved reimbursements to encourage greater adoption of telehealth across clinics nationwide. Industry groups have welcomed the update as a necessary step towards a more flexible and sustainable healthcare model.

While some smaller clinics have raised concerns about administrative demands, the sector anticipates that investment in smart technology will ease these pressures. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has highlighted the importance of ensuring sufficient support for clinics managing complex cases.

Government agencies are introducing stronger oversight of billing practices, which is expected to drive improvements in record-keeping and encourage the use of modern healthcare software. Technology firms are responding with innovations that aim to reduce paperwork and improve patient outcomes.

Sector analysts predict that the coming years will see a significant expansion in telehealth services, with more personalised care options and greater flexibility for both patients and providers. With the reforms now in place, Australia is positioning itself at the forefront of digitally enabled healthcare delivery.