What Is a PBS Co-Payment and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever paid out‑of‑pocket for a prescription in Australia, you’ve probably seen the term “PBS co‑payment.” It’s the small amount you pay each time you pick up a medicine that’s listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Most people think the PBS covers the whole price, but the co‑payment is what you actually hand to the pharmacist.

The co‑payment is designed to keep the scheme affordable for the government while still giving patients a cheap price on essential medicines. In 2025 the standard co‑payment is $6.80 for general patients, $2.90 for concessional patients, and $0 for those on the Safety Net.

Who Pays What?

There are three main groups:

• General patients: Pay the full $6.80 per prescription.
• Concessional patients: Usually retirees, low‑income earners, or those with certain health cards. They pay $2.90.
• Safety Net beneficiaries: After you reach a yearly threshold (about $1,781 for general, $344 for concessional), you pay nothing for the rest of the year.

Knowing which group you belong to can save you a lot of money. If you’re unsure, check your Medicare card or talk to a pharmacist.

Tips to Lower Your PBS Costs

Even a few dollars add up if you take multiple meds. Here are some quick ways to keep your co‑payment low:

1. Ask for the PBS version. Many brands have a cheaper PBS equivalent. For example, instead of a brand‑name antidepressant, a generic like Clozaril or Lexapro might be listed on PBS at a lower co‑payment.
2. Check if your doctor can prescribe a 5‑day repeat. Instead of a new script each month, a repeat script can reduce pharmacy visits and keep you within the Safety Net quicker.
3. Combine medications. Some combo pills cover two conditions in one tablet, meaning fewer scripts and fewer co‑payments.
4. Use online pharmacy tools. Sites like MedRX‑One let you compare PBS prices, see if a drug is eligible for a zero‑co‑payment, and guide you through safe buying steps.
5. Stay on the Safety Net. If you know you’ll need many prescriptions, aim to reach the Safety Net threshold early in the year. Once you’re over, every script after that is free.

These tricks work for a range of medicines, from cheap generics like Azithromycin and Paracetamol to higher‑cost items like Clozaril or Lexapro. The key is to stay informed about PBS eligibility.

Many of our recent articles dive into specific drugs and their PBS status. For instance, you can read about buying generic Zoloft in Australia with PBS discounts, or how to safely order Celebrex online while keeping the co‑payment low. Each guide walks you through the steps, from checking the official PBS listing to ordering from a reputable online pharmacy.

Remember, the PBS isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all. Some medicines aren’t covered, and others have special rules (like ‘restricted items’ that need extra approval). If a drug isn’t on the PBS, you’ll pay the full price, which can be a big hit. Always ask your doctor if a PBS‑listed alternative exists before signing a prescription.

Bottom line: Understanding your PBS co‑payment and using the tips above can shave dollars off each prescription. Check your status, ask for PBS versions, and use reliable resources like MedRX‑One for up‑to‑date pricing. Your wallet—and your health—will thank you.