Yep, we all hear you @Pommy8 .... I went private for surgery but public for Rads (free) and with ongoing 'gaps', I have been a good $7000+ out of pocket (add another $7000+ for hubby's treatments as he had Oncotype test in the USA too) .... and growing ...
The Oncotype test really SHOULD be available for all patients on Medicare, as it is essential to know whether chemo is a good option for them or not - and a total waste of money, resources & horrible side effects if given to them & not justified! Same as an MRI should be given early in the diagnosis, so they have a full body 'comparison' for later on - as the disease is either beaten or progresses ....
Do you live in Perth 'proper' - or are you regional, or even rural? WA has a Patient accommodation & fuel rebate system for those who don't live close to major centres with medical services/hospitals ..... it can help offset the out of pocket costs.
We have a new rural/remote group that you can join if it suits you - where we are putting info together to benefit those of us living away from cities.
Take care xx