Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

Many medicines cost much more than the price you pay - some cost hundreds of dollars - but the Federal Government pays most of it for you. The Government does this through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). It’s available to Australian residents and eligible visitors from countries with reciprocal arrangements with Australia.

The name of PBS drugs appears in the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits.

For more information about PBS, go to www.health.gov.au

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) charge

This is the maximum amount set by the Federal Government that a consumer pays towards the cost of a PBS drug. The PBS charge is reviewed annually by the Government.