New arrivals will be glad to know that the standard of healthcare in Brisbane is excellent. Permanent residents here are covered by a universal healthcare programme called Medicare. Not all expats will qualify for Medicare, however. Those who don’t will need to make use of private healthcare. In this case, we advise investing in a health insurance policy, as costs can run high without one.

In Brisbane, expats will have a wide range of well-equipped public and private facilities to choose from, each with highly trained staff. There is also no shortage of pharmacies in Brisbane. Most are very well stocked and are able to order any medication that isn’t readily available. Selected pharmacies are open 24/7.

Below are some of the most highly recommended hospitals in Brisbane.

Hospitals in Brisbane

Mater Private Hospital Springfield

Website: www.mater.org.au 
Address: 30 Health Care Drive, Springfield Central

Queensland Children’s Hospital

Website: www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au 
Address: 501 Stanley Street, South Brisbane

St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital

Website: www.standrewshospital.com.au 
Address: 457 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane

Westside Private Hospital

Website: www.westsideprivate.com.au 
Address: Level 1/32 Morrow St, Taringa

What do expats say about healthcare in Brisbane?

"The healthcare system here to be fantastic. We choose to pay for private health insurance but much of our experience has been with the state system and it has been really fast and efficient. We can always get an appointment to see a GP, and we can get after-hours doctors to come to our home. Since we’ve been here we’ve had X-rays, MRI scans and optical appointments – all for free."

Learn more about what life is like in Brisbane in our interview with British expat Karen.

Further reading

►Learn about the Australian medical system in Healthcare in Australia

Are you an expat living in Brisbane?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Brisbane. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.