CTG PBS Program – Community page
Now you can get PBS medicines for less or free through the Closing the Gap (CTG) PBS Co-payment Program. This program helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and families access the medicines they need, wherever they live in Australia. Talk to your clinic, GP, pharmacist or Aboriginal Health Practitioner to get started.
Work in the health sector?
Visit our Information for Health Professionals page for clinical guidance and how-tos.
Key things you should know
Can I access the Program, and how does it work?
Yes. The CTG PBS Co-payment Program is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Once you’re registered, the price of most PBS medicines is reduced, and in some cases, they are even free. Registration is a one-time, for-life process. Yarn with your clinic, pharmacist or Aboriginal Health Practitioner to check your status and get registered.
Can I register for the Program outside an Aboriginal health service?
Yes. Most doctors in Australia can register you for the CTG PBS Co-payment Program. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners can also register you. You can ask your GP, health service or pharmacist to check if you’re already registered.
Can I access the CTG PBS Co-payment Program if I live in a remote area?
Yes. The CTG PBS Co-payment Program is available anywhere in Australia. Being registered can help when you need specialised medicines and when you’re travelling. Ask your clinic or GP about getting registered so you’re covered wherever you go.
What if I’m going to, or leaving, hospital?
Don’t leave your meds behind. Hospital staff can check your status and register you if needed, just let them know. Most hospital pharmacies can supply CTG PBS medicines, allowing you to continue your treatment after discharge.
What will I pay for my medicine?
Once registered to the CTG PBS Co-payment Program
- If you usually pay the General PBS co-payment amount, you will pay the Concessional amount.
- If you hold a valid Concession card, and usually pay the concessional rate, you will receive your PBS medicines for free.
Learn more about PBS payments here.
What medicines are covered?
The CTG PBS Co-payment Program applies to medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). It doesn’t cover over-the-counter medicines or non-PBS medicines.
Learn more about what medicines are on the PBS here.
Quick check: Are you and your family getting medicines at the right price?
- Registered for the CTG PBS Co-payment Program at your clinic or with your GP.
- Concession card details are up to date (if you have one).
- Hospital staff know your CTG status when you’re admitted or discharged.
If you’re unsure, ask your clinic, GP, or pharmacist to check your CTG registration in HPOS in seconds.
Quick check: Are you and your family getting medicines at the right price?
- Registered for the CTG PBS Co-payment Program at your clinic or with your GP.
- Concession card details are up to date (if you have one).
- Hospital staff know your CTG status when you’re admitted or discharged.
If you’re unsure, ask your clinic, GP, or pharmacist to check your CTG registration in HPOS in seconds.
Video resources
Refer to the below Department of Health, Disability and Ageing videos on how Australia’s medicines system works, and how the CTG PBS Co-payment Program can help you get cheaper or free medicines.
- Closing the Gap PBS Co-Payment Program animation – CTG Explainer | Cheaper medicines | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
- Closing the Gap PBS Co-payment Program animation – CTG Explainer [Youtube]
- What is the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) – Explainer [Youtube]
- Closing the Gap PBS Co-payment Program animation – PBS Explainer [Youtube]
External links
- Australian Government CTG Program information including eligibility.
- See links to the Australian Government CTG PBS Co-payment Program factsheets here.
Contact
For any inquiries or further information about the Medicines and Pharmacy team at: medicines@naccho.org.au.
