Choose a first step
Facts checked 30 September 2026. Use the selector for provider links and opening hours. You do not need to share symptoms with SettleAU to use it. Check the provider's page for current access details.
- Immediate danger: call 000. A directory or online course is not an emergency service.
- Overwhelmed or struggling to stay safe: Lifeline offers free crisis support by phone 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 and online chat, all 24/7.
- Want to talk about anxiety, low mood or a difficult day: Beyond Blue provides free brief counselling, 24/7 by phone 1300 22 4636 or webchat. Local call charges may apply.
- Ongoing symptoms or uncertainty: arrange a GP appointment. Seek help whenever concerned; do not wait for a fixed adjustment period. Healthdirect recommends professional help for depression symptoms lasting two weeks or more.
Prepare for a GP or psychologist appointment
- Ask for enough appointment time. Tell reception it concerns mental health, ask the consultation fee and request an interpreter if needed.
- Bring useful notes. List your main concerns, when they started, effects on sleep and daily tasks, medicines and what you want help with. You can say: “Since moving, I have been struggling with ____. I would like to discuss support.”
- Ask about the referral pathway. Under Better Access, eligible patients with an assessed mental disorder can receive Medicare benefits for up to 10 individual and 10 group mental health treatment services per calendar year. A valid plan/referral and an eligible practitioner are required. Your clinician decides suitability.
- Check the actual bill before booking. Ask the provider for the full fee, expected rebate for your appointment, out-of-pocket gap, cancellation charge, telehealth eligibility and waiting time. Bulk billing means the practitioner accepts the Medicare benefit for the eligible service; it is not automatic.
- Confirm follow-up. The initial allied-health referral is generally for up to six services. Discuss review and further referrals with your treating clinician; the annual limit still applies. See the referral rules.
Support without Medicare
Lifeline and Beyond Blue's national support services are available to people in Australia without a Medicare referral. Medicare Mental Health Centres provide free support without a referral or appointment; Australian citizenship is not required. Ask the local centre about services and opening hours. These centres are not emergency services.
For private psychology, check your actual OSHC or OVHC policy rather than assuming it covers sessions. A student counselling service, employer assistance program or community service may be another route; eligibility, session limits, privacy rules and fees vary. Ask before providing personal information or booking.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an interpreter?
Lifeline instructs callers to phone TIS National on 131 450 and ask for 13 11 14. For appointments, request an interpreter when booking and ask who arranges and pays for it. TIS is not a universal promise of free interpreting at every private appointment. TIS National explains its services.
Is headspace always free and available all night?
No. headspace online support and individual centre services have different access arrangements. Its clinician chat page currently lists 3pm–10pm in your local time. Check centre fees and referral requirements directly. For 24/7 crisis support, use Lifeline.
What if the first service cannot help?
Ask for a specific next service, whether a referral is needed, the expected wait and what to do if you feel worse before then. If safety becomes an immediate concern, call 000. You can contact a crisis line while waiting for ongoing care.
How private is counselling?
Ask the provider what it records, who can access it and the limits of confidentiality, including safety-related disclosures. For an employer or university program, ask what information is reported back. Do not assume a promise of absolute secrecy.
Review scope: Public provider contact, access and funding information was checked for this directory. SettleAU does not provide clinical assessment or claim professional medical review.