As part of the 2026-27 Budget, the Australian Government is investing $25.3 million over 3 years to deliver up to 6 new fully bulk billing GP clinics in the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Lower Hunter and Central Coast regions – areas with historically low bulk billing rates.
This initiative builds on the investments in the 2025-26 Budget, including the $7.9 billion expansion of bulk billing incentives and introduction of the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program, and the $10.5 million investment to support increased bulk billing in the ACT through establishment of 3 new fully bulk billed clinics.
The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network will be engaged to run a competitive grant, using their local expertise and knowledge to support the selection process.