The short answer: No.
In Victoria — and across all of Australia — you can book and see a physiotherapist directly, without a GP referral. However, a referral can unlock Medicare rebates that make treatment significantly cheaper. Keep reading to understand when it helps and when it's not needed.
Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional for advice specific to your condition. If you are experiencing severe pain or a medical emergency, call 000 immediately. Content is accurate at time of publication and subject to change. © 2026 Better Physiotherapy Bundoora.
Physiotherapy is a Primary Healthcare Service
Physiotherapy, like dentistry or optometry, is a primary healthcare profession. That means qualified physiotherapists are trained and licensed to assess, diagnose, and treat patients directly — no GP referral is required to walk through the door.
This is great news. It means if you wake up with acute back pain on a Monday morning, you don't have to wait to see your GP first. You can book a physiotherapy appointment directly — often on the same day — and start treatment straight away.
At Better Physiotherapy Bundoora, the majority of our patients book directly. They call or go online, choose a time that suits them, and come in. No waiting rooms, no referral forms, no delay.
When Does a GP Referral Actually Help?
While you don't need a referral to see a physiotherapist, a GP referral can help you pay less for your treatment — through Medicare's Enhanced Primary Care scheme.
Medicare Enhanced Primary Care (EPC)
If you have a chronic or complex health condition, your GP can create a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan (also called an Enhanced Primary Care or EPC plan). This provides a Medicare rebate on up to 5 allied health sessions per calendar year, which includes physiotherapy.
The current Medicare rebate for physiotherapy under an EPC plan is approximately $58–$60 per session. If your physiotherapy costs $100–$120 per session, this brings your out-of-pocket cost down considerably.
To be eligible, you typically need to have a chronic condition (lasting 6+ months) such as back pain, osteoarthritis, diabetes, or a cardiovascular condition. Your GP assesses whether you're eligible and writes the referral as part of your care plan.
Medicare EPC at a glance
- Up to 5 subsidised allied health sessions per calendar year
- Requires a GP to create a Chronic Disease Management plan
- For people with a chronic condition lasting 6+ months
- Current rebate: approximately $58–$60 per session
- Works alongside private health insurance
What About Private Health Insurance?
Private health insurance with Extras cover does not require a GP referral for physiotherapy. If your policy includes physiotherapy in its Extras benefits, you can claim your rebate regardless of whether you have a referral.
We have HICAPS on-site at Better Physiotherapy Bundoora, which means your private health rebate is processed instantly at the clinic. You simply swipe your health fund card and pay the gap — no paperwork, no waiting for reimbursement.
NDIS and Physiotherapy
NDIS participants do not need a GP referral to access physiotherapy. If physiotherapy is included in your NDIS plan — under the Capacity Building or Improved Health & Wellbeing support categories — you can begin treatment directly with us.
Our team will work with you (and your support coordinator if applicable) to establish a service agreement, set measurable goals, and provide regular reports to your plan manager or the NDIA as required.
Better Physiotherapy Bundoora is a registered NDIS provider, accepting plan-managed, agency-managed, and self-managed participants.
WorkCover & TAC Injuries
For WorkCover (workplace injury) and TAC (motor vehicle accident) claims, the process is slightly different:
- WorkCover: You can see a physiotherapist shortly after a workplace injury, but your GP must be involved in your ongoing management — completing capacity certificates and approving treatment plans. We manage all this documentation at our clinic.
- TAC: For TAC-funded treatment after a motor vehicle accident, you generally need a GP or specialist to certify your injuries and treatment plan. Our team can guide you through the process and liaise directly with the TAC on your behalf.
Both WorkCover and TAC physiotherapy are provided at no out-of-pocket cost to you for approved treatment. Our clinic handles all the administration so you can focus on your recovery.
DVA and Veterans
DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs) card holders are covered for physiotherapy treatment. Gold card holders have all clinically necessary treatment covered. White card holders have conditions related to their accepted service conditions covered. A GP referral may be required depending on your card type and condition — contact us and we'll advise you on your specific situation.
Summary: When You Need a Referral (and When You Don't)
| Funding Type | Referral Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Self-pay / No fund | No | Book directly at any time |
| Private health insurance | No | HICAPS rebate processed on the spot |
| Medicare EPC | Yes (from GP) | Up to 5 bulk-billed sessions/year — no gap fee |
| NDIS | No | Must be in your NDIS plan |
| WorkCover | GP involvement required | Can start treatment immediately; GP manages ongoing certification |
| TAC | GP/specialist cert. required | No out-of-pocket cost for approved treatment |
| DVA | Depends on card type | Call us to confirm your entitlements |
The Bottom Line
If you're in pain or managing an injury, don't wait for a GP appointment before seeing a physiotherapist. Book directly — our team will assess you thoroughly and begin treatment in your very first session.
If you have a chronic condition and haven't yet spoken to your GP about an EPC plan, it's worth asking — the Medicare rebates can add up significantly over a course of treatment.
And if you're an NDIS participant, WorkCover claimant, or TAC recipient — call us directly on (03) 9467 6900 and we'll walk you through the process specific to your funding type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GP referral to see a physiotherapist in Victoria?
No. In Victoria and across Australia, you can see a physiotherapist without any referral. Physiotherapy is a primary healthcare profession — like dentistry or optometry — meaning patients can access it directly without needing to see a GP first.
How do I get Medicare to cover physiotherapy?
To receive a Medicare rebate on physiotherapy, your GP must create a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) or Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan for you. This provides a rebate on up to 5 allied health visits per calendar year, including physiotherapy. The rebate is approximately $58–$60 per session.
Does NDIS cover physiotherapy without a referral?
Yes. NDIS participants can access physiotherapy without a GP referral. Physiotherapy can be funded under your NDIS plan under Capacity Building (Improved Daily Living or Improved Health & Wellbeing). Contact us directly if you are an NDIS participant.
Does WorkCover require a GP referral for physiotherapy in Victoria?
For WorkCover claims, you can usually see a physiotherapist immediately after an injury. However, your GP needs to be involved in your ongoing management through capacity certificates and treatment plans. We manage all WorkCover documentation at Better Physiotherapy Bundoora.
Can I claim physiotherapy on private health without a referral?
Yes. Private health insurance does not require a GP referral for physiotherapy. If your Extras cover includes physiotherapy, you can claim regardless of whether you have a referral.
Ashley Haleel
Physiotherapist & Owner — Better Physiotherapy Bundoora