Healthcare in Melbourne is governed by the same hybrid public-private sector service provision as in the rest of Australia. The national universal healthcare insurance scheme known as Medicare can be used by permanent visa holders and allows access to public health services.

Those with temporary visas aren’t eligible for Medicare. We advise that expats in this position invest in comprehensive private health insurance.

Still, even expats who are eligible to take advantage of the public system will find that certain aspects of healthcare aren’t covered, with the private system filling in the gaps. These extras can be incredibly expensive without coverage, which is why even permanent residents who are eligible for Medicare may wish to take out additional private health insurance.

To learn more about the ins and outs of Medicare, see Healthcare in Australia.

Below are some of Melbourne’s most prominent hospitals.

Hospitals in Melbourne

The Alfred

Website: www.alfredhealth.org.au 
Address: 55 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004

Mulgrave Private Hospital

Website: www.mulgraveprivate.com.au 
Address: 48 Blanton Dr, Mulgrave, VIC 3170

Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne

Website: www.rch.org.au 
Address: 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC 305

St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne

Website: www.svhm.org.au 
Address: 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, VIC 3065

What do expats think of healthcare in Melbourne?

"Melbourne offers an incredible healthcare system. The public hospitals are well equipped and very well managed. I believe all public hospitals are equally good but if I have to name a few they might be Royal Alfred Hospital, and Austin Hospital in Melbourne."

Find out more about the Australian healthcare system by reading our interview with Indian expat Rajiv.

Further reading

►For more details on the Australian health system, read Healthcare in Australia

►Kids and Family in Melbourne is essential for expats with little ones

Are you an expat living in Melbourne?

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