For health professionals – how to help people access our programs
Medicare Mental Health Check In is a free Australian Government service. It offers early support for people aged 16 years and over who are starting to experience mental health challenges such as stress, worry, or low mood. Support is delivered online through evidence-based LiCBT resources and programs designed to help people build practical skills to manage these challenges.
No formal GP referral, registration, or clinician onboarding is required.
Individual programs take around 6 weeks to complete and can be done independently (self-guided) or with support from a qualified mental health practitioner (practitioner-guided).
Browse our available programs
Who is Medicare Mental Health Check In suitable for?
This service may be suitable for people who:
- are beginning to experience mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety, low mood, stress, sleeping problems, or related concerns
- are seeking support early, or are unsure whether they need more intensive care
- prefer flexible online options or independent engagement
- have previously used mental health services successfully and are open to digital care
- have the motivation and capacity to take part in a structured program
- have low risk and minimal complicating factors.
This service is not suitable for people who:
- are under 16
- are not currently living in Australia
- require a higher level of care (IAR 3 or more).
How can Medicare Mental Health Check In help?
Medicare Mental Health Check In helps people:
- understand what they are experiencing
- explore appropriate early support options
- access free, evidence-based online programs and resources.
This service complements primary care and existing mental health pathways and is not a diagnostic or crisis service.
Medicare Mental Health Check In is designed for IAR-DST levels 1-2 and is aligned with the Initial Assessment and Referral Decision Support Tool (IAR-DST) framework(opens in a new tab) used across primary care and the mental health sector.
What are the benefits of Medicare Mental Health Check In?
Supports early intervention
Free and immediate access – no cost and no waiting list
Convenient and flexible – accessible anywhere, anytime
Evidence-based – programs are informed by established international clinical models which have shown good outcomes for people seeking help
Low-barrier entry – suitable for people who are hesitant about traditional therapy
Complements existing treatment plans and stepped care pathways
Provides a trustworthy option for clients who don't need higher-intensity care.
What's the best way to access Medicare Mental Health Check In?
Suitability and access to the service starts with a phone call. If you are supporting someone right now who could benefit from Medicare Mental Health Check In, you can:
- recommend Medicare Mental Health Check In during a consultation
- share the Medicare Mental Health Check In website and encourage them to explore the service independently.
No formal GP referral, registration, or clinician onboarding is required.