How to Call Medicare-Related Services From Abroad
9/19/2026
Quick answer: Medicare general enquiries, including replacing a lost or expired card, at +61 1300 300 271. For Reciprocal Health Care Agreement questions, whether you're an Australian traveling to a covered country or a visitor coming to Australia, call +61 2 9895 3333.
Two numbers cover almost everything
Unlike the UK's NHS, where the everyday 111 line simply can't be dialed from abroad, Medicare's general line does work overseas, Services Australia just uses a different number format for it. On top of that, a separate dedicated team handles Reciprocal Health Care Agreements, relevant if you're an Australian heading to one of 11 specific countries, or a visitor to Australia from one of them.
Verified numbers at a glance
| Purpose | Number (from abroad) | Notes | Full guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicare general enquiries, card replacement | +61 1300 300 271 | Mon-Fri 7am-10pm, weekends 7am-7pm AEST/AEDT | Call Medicare from abroad |
| Reciprocal Health Care Agreements | +61 2 9895 3333 | Covers 11 countries including the UK, NZ, and Ireland | Call about Reciprocal Health Care Agreements from abroad |
Each guide above covers what to have ready and the best time to call for that specific line.
The cheaper way to actually make the call
Medicare calls often involve identity checks and some hold time, and standard international rates apply for the whole call. With DialVia, you call either real number from your browser over Wi-Fi instead:
- Open DialVia and sign up (about 30 seconds)
- Select Australia as the destination
- Enter the number you need
- Hit call
Frequently asked questions
Does Medicare's number work from outside Australia? Yes, at +61 1300 300 271, unlike some equivalent services in other countries that have no overseas-reachable number at all.
What's a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement? An arrangement between Australia and 11 other countries covering the cost of medically necessary treatment for eligible visitors in either direction. It's not a replacement for travel insurance.
Can I replace a lost Medicare card from overseas? Yes, call +61 1300 300 271, or use myGov or the Express Plus Medicare app for an immediate digital card while a physical replacement is posted.
Which countries have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia? The UK, New Zealand, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Slovenia, and Malta.
Also need an Australian bank, government office, or telecom provider's number? See our guides for Australian banks, Australian government offices, and Australian telecom providers.
👉 Try DialVia to call from your browser in 30 seconds. Didn't connect? You don't pay. Or return to the DialVia homepage to learn more.