From 1 November 2025, the Australian Government will introduce major reforms to the bulk billing incentives available to general practitioners. The new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) is designed to strengthen primary care, improve patient access, and provide greater financial certainty for medical practices that commit to bulk billing.
As these changes approach, practices should review both the operational and financial impacts to position themselves for success.
Key Considerations
- Expanded eligibility Currently, bulk billing incentives apply only to children under 16 and Commonwealth concession card holders. Under the new framework, all Medicare-eligible patients will qualify. This expansion requires practices to update billing policies, review pricing structures, and ensure staff are trained in new eligibility rules.
- Participation requirements To receive BBPIP payments, practices must bulk bill all eligible services for all Medicare-eligible patients. Incentives will be paid quarterly at 12.5% of MBS benefits, shared equally between the GP and the practice. The model rewards those who commit to universal bulk billing while providing predictable revenue support.
- Registration and accreditation Practices must register through Services Australia’s Organisation Register and ensure their MyMedicare registration is current. NGPA-accredited practices are eligible immediately, while non-accredited practices can participate from November 2025 under transitional arrangements.
- Financial and operational impact Moving to full bulk billing may shift your revenue mix, patient flow, and staffing requirements. Modelling the financial impact—based on your current patient profile, service mix, and MBS item usage—is critical to determine if participation is sustainable and profitable.
Key Benefits
- Stronger financial stability The 12.5% incentive uplift offers meaningful financial support, with government estimates suggesting 4,800 practices will be better off under this model—particularly in high-volume or regional settings.
- Improved access and loyalty Removing out-of-pocket costs encourages timely patient visits, improving retention and continuity of care. This can lead to higher patient satisfaction and stronger long-term relationships.
- Simplified administration Bulk billing reduces billing disputes and payment collection overhead, freeing up staff to focus on clinical care and patient experience.
- Growth and reinvestment Additional incentive income can be reinvested into expanding services, hiring staff, or upgrading practice infrastructure—strengthening sustainability and competitiveness.
- Marketing advantage Fully bulk billing practices can promote their participation in BBPIP using government-approved signage and online listings—highlighting accessibility and affordability to patients.
How We Can Help
At Prosperity Advisers, we specialise in accounting, tax and advisory services for Medical Practices and practitioners. Our team can help you:
- Model the financial impact of the BBPIP on your practice
- Optimise your billing structure and cash flow under the new framework
- Develop a sustainable growth plan that leverages incentive funding
The new BBPIP represents a turning point for general practice. With careful planning and the right financial guidance, GPs can strengthen their practice viability while improving care accessibility for all Australians.
Contact our medical accounting specialists today to discuss how these reforms will affect your practice and the opportunities they present.
Reach out to Aidan Vuocolo at avuocolo@prosperity.com.au or speak with your Principal Adviser.