Update to Assignment of Benefits changes from 1 July 2026
On 18 June 2026, the Federal Government announced amendments to the planned changes to the Assignment of Benefits (AoB) process, effective 1 July 2026.
What’s changing
The updated changes include:
Regulatory amendments to support a 12‑month transition period.
Acceptance of verbal consent in all settings for 12 months from 1 July 2026.
Introduction of enduring Assignment of Benefit arrangements for specific patient groups receiving ongoing GP bulk billed services, either directly or through a person acting on their behalf.
This means:
Patients registered with MyMedicare can make one enduring agreement to receive services from all general practitioners at their MyMedicare practice, if offered.
Patients of ACCHOs and AMSs can make an enduring agreement with the service and can hold multiple agreements across different ACCHOs or AMSs.
Patients living in residential aged care can make multiple enduring agreements with different practitioners.
Compliance activity will not begin until regulatory changes are complete and will initially focus on prevention and education.
Implementation and transition
The regulatory amendments are being progressed as a priority.
The Department is regularly updating its frequently asked questions (FAQs) to clarify the AoB changes, including what they mean in practice. These will continue to be updated to reflect enduring agreements and how they can be established.
During the 12‑month transition period, the Department will also explore further regulatory and legislative options to reduce administrative burden for general practices and patients, while maintaining the integrity of Medicare.
The Department has acknowledged the efforts of those working towards implementation.
Background
Under the Health Insurance Act 1973, it has long been a requirement that, for bulk billing to occur, a patient (or an appropriate person on their behalf) assigns their Medicare benefit to the provider in exchange for no out‑of‑pocket costs.
In January 2023, the Australian National Audit Office identified potential legal risks associated with verbal AoB processes without a patient signature. In response, the Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing asked the department to modernise the process to make it easier, safer and more efficient.
Further information
For more information:
If you need support, please contact your MPHN Primary Care Engagement Officer.