How Much Do Cortisone Injections Cost in Australia? Complete 2025 Price Guide
Your Complete Guide to Cortisone Injection Costs, Medicare Coverage & Bulk Billing Options Across Australia
Cortisone injections are a proven, effective treatment for joint pain, inflammation, and various musculoskeletal conditions affecting millions of Australians. Whether you're dealing with arthritis, bursitis, or sports injuries, understanding the real costs, Medicare coverage options, and bulk billing availability can save you hundreds of dollars and help you access the treatment you need.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover exactly what cortisone injections cost across Australia, how to find bulk-billed providers near you, and insider tips to minimise your out-of-pocket expenses.
Quick Cost Overview
Bulk Billed Cortisone Injections: $0 out-of-pocket cost
Private Practice (with Medicare): $50-$150 out-of-pocket
Private Practice (no Medicare): $200-$500 total cost
Ultrasound-Guided Injections: $100-$300 additional
CT-Guided Injections: $200-$600 additional
Are Cortisone Injections Bulk Billed in Australia?
Yes, cortisone injections can be bulk billed in Australia when performed by participating healthcare providers. However, availability varies by location and provider.
Who Can Bulk Bill Cortisone Injections?
General Practitioners (GPs)
Rheumatologists
Sports medicine doctors
Some physiotherapists with injection qualifications
Pain management specialists
Medicare Coverage for Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections are covered under Medicare when:
Performed by eligible medical practitioners
Medically necessary for diagnosed conditions
Claimed under appropriate Medicare item numbers
Medicare Rebate: Typically covers 85% of the scheduled fee for specialist consultations and 100% for GP services when bulk billed. Learn more about Medicare rebates and coverage on the Services Australia website.
Cortisone Injection Costs by Type
Standard Cortisone Injection Cost
Bulk billed: $0 out-of-pocket
Private GP: $80-$200 total
Private specialist: $150-$350 total
Ultrasound-Guided Steroid Injection Cost
Ultrasound guidance provides precise needle placement for better outcomes and is increasingly recommended by sports medicine specialists.
Bulk billed (where available): $0 out-of-pocket
Private with Medicare: $200-$400 total
Private without Medicare: $350-$600 total
Why ultrasound guidance? According to the Australian College of Sports Physicians, ultrasound guidance improves accuracy by up to 95%, reduces complications, and increases treatment effectiveness compared to landmark-guided injections.
CT-Guided Injection Cost
CT guidance is used for complex anatomical areas like the spine and is typically performed in radiology clinics or hospitals.
Public hospital: Often covered under Medicare
Private radiology: $400-$800 total
Out-of-pocket after Medicare: $200-$500
Learn more about diagnostic imaging costs from Services Australia.
Quarter Zone Injection Cost
Quarter zone injections target specific areas of joints, particularly effective for shoulder conditions.
Bulk billed: $0 out-of-pocket
Private practice: $150-$300 total
Specialist sports clinic: $200-$450 total
HCLA Injection Cost
High-concentration local anaesthetic (HCLA) injections combine cortisone with anaesthetic.
GP practice: $100-$250 total
Sports medicine clinic: $200-$400 total
Pain management specialist: $250-$500 total
Cortisone Injection Costs by Body Part
Knee Injection Cost
Bulk billed: $0
Private: $150-$350
Ultrasound-guided: Add $100-$200
Shoulder Injection Cost
Bulk billed: $0
Private: $150-$400
Ultrasound-guided: Add $150-$250
Hip Injection Cost
Bulk billed: $0
Private: $200-$450
CT-guided (if required): $400-$700
Back/Spinal Injection Cost
Epidural steroid injection: $300-$800
Facet joint injection: $250-$600
CT-guided spinal injection: $500-$1,200
Ankle Injection Cost
Bulk billed: $0
Private: $120-$280
Ultrasound-guided: Add $100-$180
Wrist/Hand Injection Cost
Bulk billed: $0
Private: $100-$250
Trigger finger injection: $80-$200
Finding Bulk Billed Cortisone Injections Near Me
Melbourne
Bulk billing availability: High in outer suburbs, limited in inner city
Average wait time: 1-3 weeks
Best areas for bulk billing: Frankston, Dandenong, Werribee, Craigieburn
Sydney
Bulk billing availability: Moderate, varies by region
Average wait time: 2-4 weeks
Best areas for bulk billing: Western Sydney, Campbelltown, Penrith
Brisbane
Bulk billing availability: Good in outer areas
Average wait time: 1-2 weeks
Best areas for bulk billing: Logan, Ipswich, Caboolture
Perth
Bulk billing availability: Limited but available
Average wait time: 3-6 weeks
Best areas for bulk billing: Joondalup, Rockingham, Armadale
Adelaide
Bulk billing availability: Moderate
Average wait time: 2-4 weeks
Best areas for bulk billing: Northern and southern suburbs
Other Locations
Canberra: Limited bulk billing, mainly private
Gold Coast: Good availability in Southport and Robina
Newcastle: Moderate availability
Geelong: Good bulk billing options available
How to Get a Cortisone Injection in Australia
Step 1: GP Referral or see a Physiotherapist who will send you to a GP
While not always required, a GP referral can:
Ensure Medicare coverage
Help find bulk billing providers through the Healthdirect Service Finder
Provide medical assessment and documentation
Access specialist pain management services
Step 2: Choose Your Provider
Consider:
Bulk billing availability
Wait times
Location convenience
Specialist expertise required
Step 3: Book Your Appointment
Ask about:
Bulk billing status
Out-of-pocket costs
Medicare rebates available
Any additional fees
Factors Affecting Cortisone Injection Costs
Location Factors
Major cities: Higher costs, limited bulk billing
Regional areas: More bulk billing, longer wait times
Private vs public: Significant cost differences
Provider Factors
GP vs specialist: Specialists typically charge more
Experience level: Senior practitioners may charge premium fees
Clinic type: Sports medicine clinics often charge more
Procedure Complexity
Simple joint injection: Lower cost
Image-guided injection: Higher cost
Multiple injection sites: Increased fees
Specialist equipment required: Additional charges
Medicare Item Numbers for Cortisone Injections
Understanding Medicare item numbers can help you verify coverage and expected rebates:
Item 104: GP consultation with injection
Item 132: Specialist consultation with injection
Item 18360: Ultrasound-guided injection
Item 61360: CT-guided injection
Check the current Medicare Benefits Schedule for the most up-to-date rebate amounts.
Private Health Insurance Coverage
Many private health insurance policies provide additional coverage for:
Specialist consultations
Image-guided procedures
Gap cover for out-of-pocket expenses
Faster access to treatment
Use the government's health insurance comparison tool to check your specific coverage for cortisone injections and related services.
Cost-Saving Tips
Finding Affordable Options
Start with your GP - Many can perform basic injections
Ask about bulk billing - Even some specialists offer it
Consider public hospitals - Longer wait but potentially free
Shop around - Prices vary significantly between providers
Check regional options - Travel may be cost-effective
Questions to Ask Providers
"Do you bulk bill for cortisone injections?"
"What's the total out-of-pocket cost?"
"Is image guidance necessary for my condition?"
"What Medicare rebates apply?"
"Are there any additional fees?"
When Cortisone Injections Are Recommended
Common Conditions Treated
Arthritis (knee, hip, shoulder)
Bursitis (shoulder, hip, elbow)
Tendonitis (Achilles, tennis elbow)
Trigger finger
Frozen shoulder
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Sciatica and back pain
For more information about these conditions, visit Healthdirect Australia or consult with your healthcare provider.
Expected Outcomes
Pain relief: Often within 24-48 hours
Duration: Typically 3-6 months
Success rate: 70-90% for appropriate conditions
Repeat treatments: Usually possible if effective
Preparation and Aftercare Costs
Additional Costs to Consider
Diagnostic imaging: $100-$400 (if required)
Follow-up appointments: $50-$150
Physiotherapy: $80-$120 per session
Medications: $20-$50 for pain relief
Insurance and Rebates
Medicare and private health insurance may cover associated costs like imaging and follow-up care.
Conclusion
Cortisone injection costs in Australia vary significantly based on provider, location, and procedure complexity. Bulk billing options are available and can eliminate out-of-pocket costs entirely. When choosing a provider, consider not just cost but also expertise, convenience, and your specific medical needs.
For the most current pricing and bulk billing availability in your area, contact local healthcare providers directly or consult with your GP for referrals to appropriate specialists. You can also use the Healthdirect Service Finder to locate bulk billing providers near you.
So when answering the question, how much does a cortisone injection cost, A cortisone injection can vary for a Cortsone Injection depending on whether it is an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection (which tends to be more expensive but more effective) or whether it is just a general cortisone injection administered by a General Practitioner (GP). The Cost of an Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection referred by a GP following guidance from a Physio tends to cost approximately $365, with a rebate from Medicare of $125.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a cortisone injection cost in Australia?
Cortisone injection costs vary from $0 (bulk billed) to $500+ depending on the provider, location, and type of injection. Most bulk billed injections are free, while private practices typically charge $150-$350 with Medicare rebates available.
Are cortisone injections covered by Medicare?
Yes, cortisone injections are covered by Medicare when performed by eligible practitioners for medically necessary conditions. Medicare typically covers 85% of specialist fees and 100% of GP fees when bulk billed.
Can I get bulk billed cortisone injections?
Yes, many GPs and some specialists offer bulk billed cortisone injections, meaning no out-of-pocket cost to you. Availability varies by location, with better availability in outer suburban and regional areas.
How much does an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection cost?
Ultrasound-guided injections typically cost $200-$600 total, with Medicare rebates reducing out-of-pocket costs to $100-$300. Some providers offer bulk billing for ultrasound-guided procedures.
Do I need a referral for a cortisone injection?
A GP referral isn't always required, but it's recommended as it ensures Medicare coverage, helps find appropriate specialists, and may be required for some procedures like CT-guided injections.
How long do cortisone injections last?
Cortisone injections typically provide pain relief for 3-6 months, though this varies by individual and condition. Some people experience relief for several months, while others may need repeat injections sooner.
What's the difference between ultrasound-guided and regular cortisone injections?
Ultrasound-guided injections use real-time imaging to precisely place the needle, improving accuracy and reducing complications. They typically cost more but have higher success rates, especially for deep joints.
Can physiotherapists give cortisone injections in Australia?
Only qualified medical practitioners (doctors) can perform cortisone injections in Australia. Some physiotherapists with additional medical training and qualifications may be eligible, but this is rare.
How much does a CT-guided cortisone injection cost?
CT-guided injections typically cost $400-$800 total, with Medicare rebates available. These are usually performed for spinal conditions and complex anatomical areas requiring precise guidance.
Are there any side effects from cortisone injections?
Common side effects include temporary pain at the injection site, temporary blood sugar elevation (in diabetics), and rarely, infection. Serious side effects are uncommon when performed by qualified practitioners.
How often can I have cortisone injections?
Most doctors recommend waiting at least 3-4 months between injections in the same area, with a maximum of 3-4 injections per year in any single joint to avoid potential complications.
What should I do after a cortisone injection?
Rest the injected area for 24-48 hours, avoid strenuous activity, apply ice if there's swelling, and follow your doctor's specific aftercare instructions. Most people can return to normal activities within a few days.
Can I claim cortisone injections on private health insurance?
Many private health insurance policies cover cortisone injections under their general treatment or specialist coverage. Check with your insurer about specific coverage levels and any waiting periods.
How do I find bulk billed cortisone injection providers near me?
Use the Healthdirect Service Finder, ask your GP for referrals, call local medical practices directly, or search online directories specifying "bulk billing" in your search criteria.
What's a quarter zone injection and how much does it cost?
Quarter zone injections target specific areas of joints, particularly effective for shoulder conditions. They typically cost $150-$450 depending on whether they're bulk billed or performed privately.
Last updated: 2025. Costs are indicative and may vary. Always confirm pricing and Medicare coverage with your chosen healthcare provider before treatment. For medical advice, consult with qualified healthcare professionals.