Medicare Speech Pathology Funding
In Australia, the Medicare system offers partial rebates for speech pathology services through specific programs designed for children with chronic conditions or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This means eligible children can access professional speech therapy with a government-funded contribution toward the cost, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for families.
Two Main Medicare Speech Therapy Programs
GP Chronic Condition Management Plan
For children with chronic medical conditions requiring ongoing support from multiple health providers.
Helping Children With Autism
For children with diagnosed or suspected autism spectrum disorder (ASD) needing assessment and therapy.
GPCCMP: GP Chronic Condition Management Plan
What is GPCCMP?
The GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP), formerly called the Enhanced Primary Care Plan (EPC), is a Medicare initiative that provides rebates for allied health services (including speech pathology) for patients with chronic conditions requiring complex, ongoing care from multiple health providers.
Eligibility for GPCCMP
Your child must meet ALL of these criteria:
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Chronic Condition: A medical condition lasting longer than 6 months (e.g., asthma, diabetes, cerebral palsy, developmental delay)
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Complex Care Needs: Require ongoing support from GP plus at least 2 other health providers (could include speech pathologist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, etc.)
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No Age Limit: Can be any age (children, adolescents, adults)
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GP Assessment: Your GP must determine you meet criteria and create a formal plan
Who Can Refer for GPCCMP?
Only your General Practitioner (GP) can create a GPCCMP and refer you to speech pathology. The GP completes official paperwork and provides it to you before you start sessions.
How Many Sessions Can You Get?
Under GPCCMP, you're eligible for up to 5 allied health sessions per calendar year. This means:5 sessions total can be with ANY combination of allied health professionals (e.g., 3 with speech pathologist + 2 with occupational therapist)
Sessions are reset every calendar year (January–December)
Unused sessions in one year can carry over to the next year, but they still count toward that year's 5-session limit
HCWA: Helping Children With Autism (ASD)
What is HCWA?
The Helping Children With Autism (HCWA) program is a Medicare initiative specifically for children with diagnosed or suspected autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It provides rebates for assessment and treatment services from allied health professionals, including speech pathologists, to help with communication, learning, and developmental goals.
Eligibility for HCWA
Your child is eligible if they meet ALL of these criteria:
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Age: Under 15 years old (rebates end at 15th birthday)Diagnosis or Suspected ASD: Formal diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder OR suspected autism pending assessment (paediatrician confirmation)
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Referral from Specialist: Referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist who has assessed the child
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Australian Resident: Must be Australian citizen or permanent resident
Who Can Refer for HCWA?
Only specialists can refer:
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Paediatrician (child specialist doctor)Psychiatrist
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Your child's GP cannot refer for HCWA—you need a specialist assessment first. If your child doesn't have a paediatrician, ask your GP for a referral.
How Many Sessions Can You Get?
HCWA provides two separate allocations, one for each phase:
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Diagnosis Phase
Up to 4 sessions for comprehensive assessment and diagnosis confirmation (if not already diagnosed).
Lifetime limit: Once used, you can't access more diagnosis sessions.
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Treatment Phase
Up to 20 sessions for ongoing therapy and intervention services aligned with autism support goals.
Lifetime limit: Once the 20 sessions are used, HCWA funding ends (though child may transition to NDIS or other support).
WHY SPEAK WONDERS?
Autism-Informed Practice
Our team has extensive experience supporting children with autism and neuro-affirming approaches.
Learn More About Us!
HCWA Management
We liaise with your paediatrician, track session allocation, and help maximise the 20 treatment sessions effectively.
Experienced with Medicare
Our team understands GPCCMP paperwork and billing processes. We track outcomes aligned with GP management plan goals and communicate with your GP.
Home-Based Therapy
Reduces anxiety and sensory overwhelm; therapy happens in your child's comfortable environment
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