Medicare

Two Medicare pathways may be available for speech pathology

There are currently two Medicare pathways that may help fund your child's speech pathology services. The most appropriate pathway depends on your child's diagnosis, age, and reason for referral.

From 1 March 2026, children and young people with stuttering, speech sound disorders (including Childhood Apraxia of Speech), or cleft lip and/or palate may be eligible for an expanded Medicare pathway, allowing access to significantly more rebated speech pathology services than the traditional Chronic Disease Management Plan.

Option 1: Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan

A Chronic Disease Management Plan (formerly known as an Enhanced Primary Care Plan) is arranged by your child's General Practitioner (GP).

If eligible, your child may access:

  • Medicare rebate of $61.80 per session for up to five allied health appointments per calendar year

  • Sessions shared across all eligible allied health providers (e.g. speech pathology, occupational therapy and physiotherapy)

  • A Medicare rebate towards the cost of each appointment

A valid GP referral is required before your first appointment.

Option 2: Medicare M10 Speech Pathology Pathway

From 1 March 2026, children and young people under 25 years of age with eligible conditions may access Medicare rebates through the expanded M10 pathway. Eligible conditions now include:

  • Stuttering

  • Speech sound disorders, including:

    • Articulation disorders

    • Phonological disorders

    • Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

    • Dysarthria

  • Cleft lip and/or palate

This pathway currently provides a Medicare rebate of approximately $87.20 per eligible assessment or treatment session, with access to:

  • Up to 8 assessment sessions

  • Up to 20 treatment sessions

These sessions are separate from, and in addition to, sessions available under a Chronic Disease Management Plan if your child is eligible for both pathways.

Not sure which pathway applies to your child?

If you're unsure which Medicare pathway may be appropriate, we're happy to discuss your child's communication needs and help you understand the referral process before your first appointment.