Forum Discussion
Treatment in Australia
Hi there, I am a New Zealander and I am wondering if I would be eligible to receive treatment in Australia. I am very disappointed in the care I have received in NZ, it hasn't always been like this but I am very disheartened at the fractured system we have, in communication and empathy,
4 Replies
- I believe the waiting period is 2 years and that is if you are intending to stay take up permanent residency. Medicare website would give you more info.
- I was thinking the same as @Afraser.
If you are already living here as a kiwi, and have been here for some years, you would definitely receive the same treatment as Aussies, if you've joined Medicare.
However, even if you moved over here now, I believe there is a also a 'waiting' period of some years before being able to access any health care (unless it is an accident) ...
Check out what the NZ Health site says:
https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/australia-and-pacific/australia/new-zealand-high-commission-to-australia/living-in-australia/daily-life-in-australia/health
And the Aussie site:
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/reciprocal-health-care-agreements-visiting-from-new-zealand?context=22481
Essentially, it says: The Reciprocal Health Care Agreement doesn’t apply if you travel to Australia for medical treatment. - There are reciprocal health benefits between Australia and New Zealand, they would cover, for example, accidents or injury by an Australian in New Zealand and vice versa. What is not clear is the benefit for someone moving from one country to another primarily for medical care. You need some specialised advice before making a move.
- So sorry to hear this. Unsure about this - perhaps Cancer Council Australia can help. I wonder if we have a reciprocal system.
