Almost 1000 mixed-billing GP practices will convert to universal bulk-billing when the tripled bulk-billing incentives for non-concessional patients start on 1 November, says Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing Mark Butler.

The Federal Government says the tripled incentives and the 12.5% loading payment for universally bulk-billing GP practices will mean the number of bulk-billing practices grows from 1600 to 4800 by 2030, generating a GP bulk-billing rate of 90%, up from 78% in 2024/25.

“We think about 900 practices have already indicated to government that this week they’re charging gap fees and next week they will be a fully bulk-billing practice,” Mr Butler told reporters on Monday.

“We expect that number to increase over the course of this week.