MRI Cost Australia 2025: Prices, Medicare Rebates & Bulk Billing Options
Facing an expensive MRI scan? You're not alone. Many Australians are shocked to discover MRI scans can cost $200-$600 out-of-pocket, even with a referral. Unlike other medical imaging, most MRI scans receive little to no Medicare rebate unless you meet strict criteria.
But here's the good news: Understanding the system can help you access bulk-billed MRI scans or significantly reduce your costs. The key is knowing which conditions qualify for Medicare rebates and how to navigate the referral process effectively.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, you'll discover:
Complete MRI pricing breakdown by body part and provider type
Exact Medicare bulk billing criteria (and how to qualify)
Why physiotherapists can save you money on referrals
Step-by-step guide to accessing bulk-billed knee MRI scans
Alternative imaging options that might be more cost-effective
State-by-state pricing variations and money-saving strategies
Whether you need a brain, spine, or joint MRI, this guide reveals everything you need to know about Australian MRI costs—so you can get the imaging you need without breaking the bank.
If you’re wondering how much does an MRI Cost in Australia? The average MRI Cost in Australia is $375 out of pocket, and no rebate from Medicare if the referral is written by a health professional other than a Surgeon or Specialist. However, suppose a Specialist or Surgeon refers the patient for an MRI Scan, than the cost may be reduced, however the patient will have to pay for the surgeon or specialist appointment as well.
MRI Costs Australia: Quick Answer (2025 Updated)
💰 Average Out-of-Pocket Cost: $200-$600 (most scans receive no Medicare rebate)
🏥 Medicare Rebate: $0-$375 (only for specialist referrals meeting strict criteria)
🎯 Bulk Billing: Available for specific conditions when referred by a GP
📍 Cheapest Options: Public hospitals ($100-$300), specific bulk-billed conditions
📈 Most Expensive: Private imaging centres ($400-$800)
⏰ 2025 Update: Prices increased 8-12% from 2024, moreBulkk billing restrictions introduced
What Affects Your MRI Cost?
Referral type (GP vs physiotherapist vs specialist - dramatically impacts Rebate)
Body part being scanned (different Medicare item numbers)
Medical condition (must meet specific Bulk billing criteria)
Age restrictions (knee MRI billing limited to 16-49 years)
Imaging centre type (public vs private vs university-affiliated)
Geographic location (Melbourne/Sydney, 20-40% more expensive)
Understanding MRI: What You Need to Know
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that utilises strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs, tissues, and structures within the body. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, MRI doesn't use ionising radiation, making it particularly valuable for examining soft tissues.
How MRI Scans Work
During an MRI scan, you lie inside a large, tube-shaped machine containing a powerful magnet. Radio waves are directed at your body, causing atoms to emit signals that are processed by a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images. Scans typically take 30-90 minutes, depending on the area being examined.
When MRI is Superior to Other Imaging
MRI excels at imaging: • Soft tissues: Muscles, ligaments, cartilage, tendons • Brain and nervous system: Detailed neurological assessment • Joints: Comprehensive joint structure evaluation • Spine: Disc problems, nerve compression • Internal organs: Without radiation exposure
Compare this to ultrasound costs, which are much cheaper ($50-$150) but limited to surface structures and real-time assessment.
Complete MRI Pricing by Body Part (2025 Rates)
The following costs reflect current pricing across Australian imaging centres, based on Medicare Benefits Schedule rates where applicable.
Head & Brain Scans
Brain MRI (No Rebate - Standard)
• Medicare Item: N/A (no rebate for most conditions)
• Out-of-Pocket Cost: $400-$700
• Public Hospital: $200-$400
• Common Reasons: Headaches, dizziness, memory issues
• Duration: 45-60 minutes
Brain MRI (With Medicare Rebate)
• Medicare Items: 63001-63010 (specialist referral only)
• Medicare Rebate: $300-$375
• Out-of-Pocket Cost: $100-$300
• Qualifying Conditions: Brain tumours, unexplained seizures, suspected pathology
• Referral Requirement: Specialist or consultant physician only
Spine Scans
Cervical Spine (Neck) MRI
• Medicare Item: 63191 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $450-$650
• With Rebate: $150-$350 out-of-pocket
• Common Reasons: Neck pain, disc herniation, nerve compression
• Bulk Billing: Possible for significant trauma or neurological signs
Lumbar Spine (Lower Back) MRI
• Medicare Item: 63194 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $450-$700
• With Rebate: $150-$400 out-of-pocket
• Common Reasons: Back pain, sciatica, disc problems
• GP Bulk Billing: Available for significant trauma or neurological signs
Thoracic Spine (Mid-Back) MRI
• Medicare Item: 63192 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $450-$650
• With Rebate: $150-$350 out-of-pocket
• Common Reasons: Mid-back pain, fractures, disc issues
Joint & Musculoskeletal Scans
Knee MRI (Bulk Billing Available)
• Medicare Item: 63560 (GP referral possible)
• Bulk Billed Cost: $0 (if criteria met)
• No Rebate Cost: $350-$550
• Age Limit: 16-49 years only
• Qualifying Criteria:
Inability to extend the knee (suspected meniscal tear)
Clinical signs of ACL tear following acute trauma • Specialist Item: 63328 (any age, broader criteria)
Shoulder MRI
• Medicare Item: 63325 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $400-$600
• With Rebate: $100-$300 out-of-pocket
• Common Reasons: Rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, impingement
• Referral Requirement: Must be referred by a specialist for Rebate
Hip MRI
• Medicare Item: 63322 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $400-$650
• With Rebate: $100-$350 out-of-pocket
• GP Bulk Billing: Available for suspected septic arthritis, Perthes disease
• Common Reasons: Hip pain, labral tears, arthritis assessment
Wrist/Hand MRI
• Medicare Item: 63334 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $350-$500
• With Rebate: $75-$250 out-of-pocket
• GP Bulk Billing: Available for suspected scaphoid fracture
• Common Reasons: Wrist pain, suspected fractures, ligament injuries
Ankle/Foot MRI
• Medicare Item: 63331 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $350-$500
• With Rebate: $75-$250 out-of-pocket
• Common Reasons: Ankle injuries, plantar fasciitis, tendon tears
Internal Organ Scans
Abdominal/Pelvic MRI
• Medicare Items: 63563 (specialist referral)
• No Rebate Cost: $500-$800
• With Rebate: $200-$500 out-of-pocket
• Special Rebates: Available for fertility investigations, endometriosis
• Common Reasons: Abdominal pain, organ assessment, cancer staging
Medicare Bulk Billing Criteria: How to Qualify
Understanding Medicare's strict criteria is crucial for accessing bulk-billed MRI scans. According to Medicare guidelines, only specific conditions qualify for rebates.
GP Can Request a Bulk-Billed MRI For:
Head/Brain Scans
• Unexplained seizures in any patient
• Unexplained headaches where significant pathology is suspected
• Paranasal sinus pathology not responding to conservative therapy
Spine Scans
• Significant trauma to any spinal region
• Neck or back pain with neurological signs (weakness, numbness, altered reflexes)
• Unexplained back pain where significant pathology is suspected
Joint Scans
• Acute knee trauma (ages 16-49 only):
Inability to extend the knee (suspected meniscal tear)
Clinical findings suggesting ACL tear • Hip conditions:
Suspected septic arthritis
Suspected slipped capital femoral epiphysis
Suspected Perthes disease • Elbow: Suspected fracture or avulsion injury
• Wrist: Suspected scaphoid fracture
Age and Time Restrictions
Critical limitations: • Knee MRIBulkk billing: Limited to ages 16-49 (restriction introduced November 2018) • Acute trauma: Must be recent injury, not chronic conditions • GP referrals: Limited to specific items listed above • Specialist referrals: Required for broader range of conditions with rebates
Who Can Refer You for an MRI?
Understanding referral options can significantly impact your costs and access to Medicare rebates.
Medical Professionals (Full Rebate Access)
• General Practitioners (GPs): Can refer for bulk-billed conditions listed above • Medical specialists: Can refer for any condition with a Medicare rebate • Consultant physicians: Full access to rebated MRI items • Emergency doctors: For acute conditions
Allied Health Professionals (No Medicare Rebate)
• Physiotherapists: Can refer, but no Medicare rebate applies. • Chiropractors: Can refer, but no Medicare rebate applies • Sports medicine practitioners: Depends on medical qualification
Evolutio's Expert Referral Services
At Evolutio, our experienced physiotherapists can help you navigate the MRI referral process:
• Alex Drew - Founder with 14+ years experience in complex shoulder and back injuries • Phill Danzi - ACL specialist and Western Bulldogs AFL Women's physio, expert in ACL rehabilitation • Bayden Smith - Co-clinic director specialising in complex injuries and biomechanics • Gemma Mollenhauer - Cycling specialist and national-level cyclist • Catya Vezzoli - Carlton FC physio specialising in contact sport injuries
Our strategic approach:
Assessment first: Comprehensive evaluation to determine if an MRI is necessary
GP coordination: We can write to your GP requesting a bulk-billed MRI if the criteria are met
Alternative options: Recommend ultrasound or other imaging if more appropriate
Cost-effective partnerships: Direct relationships with imaging centres for better pricing
Book a consultation to discuss your MRI needs and optimise referral strategy.
10 Proven Strategies to Reduce MRI Costs
1. Target Bulk-Billing Eligible Conditions
What it saves: $300-$600 per scan
How it works: • Ensure your condition meets Medicare criteria • Get a GP referral for qualifying conditions • Knee injuries (ages 16-49): Focus on inability to extend or ACL signs • Spine issues: Emphasise neurological symptoms or recent trauma
Pro tip: Our physiotherapists can assess if your condition likely qualifies and coordinate with your GP.
2. Consider Alternative Imaging First
What it saves: $200-$500 vs MRI costs
When alternatives work: • Ultrasound ($50-$150): Excellent for tendon injuries, muscle tears • CT scans ($100-$400): Better for bone injuries, some joint problems • X-rays ($20-$80): Rule out fractures before expensive MRI
Strategic approach: Begin with less expensive imaging to inform the decision on MRI necessity.
3. Access Public Hospital Imaging
What it saves: $100-$300 per scan
How to access: • Get referral specifying "public hospital preferred" • Longer waiting times (2-8 weeks) but significantly cheaper • Same quality equipment and radiologists • Often bulk-billed for emergency cases
Best public hospital options: • Melbourne: Monash Health, Northern Health • Sydney: Liverpool Hospital, Westmead Hospital • Brisbane: Princess Alexandra Hospital • Perth: Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
4. Choose University-Affiliated Centres
What it saves: $50-$150 per scan
Why they're cheaper: • Teaching hospitals often have lower fees • Research protocols may offer reduced-cost scans • Academic medical centres focus on education over profit
Examples: • University of Melbourne affiliated imaging centres • Monash University research imaging facilities
5. Time Your Scan Strategically
What it saves: $50-$100 per scan
Cost-saving timing: • Off-peak appointments: Early morning or late evening discounts • Mid-week scheduling: Avoid weekend premium charges • End of financial year: Some centres offer discounts in June
6. Compare Imaging Centre Pricing
What it saves: $100-$200 per scan
Price comparison example (Knee MRI in Melbourne): • I-MED Radiology: $450 out-of-pocket • Capitol Health: $380 out-of-pocket • Lumus Imaging: $400 out-of-pocket • Public hospital: $200-$300 out-of-pocket • University center: $320 out-of-pocket
Always ask for:
Exact out-of-pocket cost before booking
Payment plan options
Any available discounts
7. Leverage Private Health Insurance
What it saves: $100-$300 per scan
Coverage levels: • Basic extras: Usually no MRI coverage • Mid-level extras: May cover $100-$200 • Top extras: Can cover $200-$400 • Hospital cover: May cover if done as an inpatient
Key considerations:
Annual limits and waiting periods
Gap payments vs full coverage
Network provider requirements
8. Access Payment Plans and Medical Finance
What it saves: Immediate cash flow relief
Options available: • Interest-free payment plans: 6-18 months at most centres • Zip Medical: Healthcare-specific financing • MacCredit: Medical payment plans • Centre-specific plans: Many offer in-house financing
9. Ask About Research Study Participation
What it saves: $200-$600 (potentially free scans)
How it works: • Universities and hospitals conduct imaging research • Participants may receive free MRI scans • Must meet specific study criteria • Results may be used for research purposes
Where to look:
University hospital research departments
10. Student and Concession Discounts
What it saves: 10-25% of total cost
Who qualifies: • Full-time students with valid ID • Healthcare workers (some centers) • Pensioners and concession card holders • Seniors (65+) discounts
Always ask: Many centres don't advertise these discounts.
MRI Costs by Australian State & Territory (2025)
New South Wales
Average out-of-pocket: $300-$650
Cheapest areas: Western Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong
Most expensive: North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, Northern Beaches
Public hospital access: Good, 4-8 week wait times
Top bulk-billing centres: Liverpool Hospital, Westmead Hospital
Victoria
Average out-of-pocket: $250-$600
Cheapest areas: Dandenong, Frankston, outer suburbs
Most expensive: Toorak, South Yarra, inner Melbourne
Public hospital access: Excellent, 3-6 week wait times
Top bulk-billing centres: Monash Health, Northern Health
Partner recommendation: We work closely with Lumus Imaging on Bridge Road
Queensland
Average out-of-pocket: $250-$550
Cheapest areas: Logan, Ipswich, Cairns
Most expensive: Gold Coast, Brisbane CBD
Public hospital access: Good, 4-7 week wait times
Top bulk-billing centres: Princess Alexandra Hospital, Royal Brisbane Hospital
Western Australia
Average out-of-pocket: $300-$600
Cheapest areas: Armadale, Rockingham, Joondalup
Most expensive: Subiaco, Cottesloe, Nedlands
Public hospital access: Limited, 6-10 week wait times
Top bulk-billing centres: Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Fiona Stanley Hospital
South Australia
Average out-of-pocket: $250-$550
Cheapest areas: Elizabeth, Salisbury, outer Adelaide
Most expensive: Adelaide Hills, Unley, inner Adelaide
Public hospital access: Good, 4-8 week wait times
Top bulk-billing centres: Flinders Medical Centre, Royal Adelaide Hospital
Tasmania
Average out-of-pocket: $200-$450
Generally cheaper: Lower overhead costs, limited private options
Public hospital access: Good, 3-6 week wait times
Main centres: Royal Hobart Hospital, Launceston General Hospital
Australian Capital Territory
Average out-of-pocket: $350-$700
Limited options: Fewer centres = higher prices
Public hospital access: Good, 4-8 week wait times
Main centres: Canberra Hospital, private centres
Northern Territory
Average out-of-pocket: $200-$400
Heavily subsidised government support for remote locations
Public hospital access: Limited but well-funded
Main centres: Royal Darwin Hospital, Alice Springs Hospital
Step-by-Step Guide: Getting a Bulk-Billed Knee MRI
The knee MRI is the most commonly bulk-billed MRI scan. Here's precisely how to access it:
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Age: Must be 16-49 years old
Condition: Recent acute knee trauma
Symptoms: Either:
Inability to extend the knee fully (suggesting meniscal tear)
Clinical signs of ACL tear (positive tests)
Step 2: Get Professional Assessment
Book with a physiotherapist who can:
Assess if you meet the Bulkk billing criteria
Perform specific tests (McMurray's test, Lachman test)
Document clinical findings
Write a letter to the GP outlining findings
At Evolutio, our ACL specialist, Phill Danzi, can expertly assess knee injuries and coordinate GP referrals.
Step 3: GP Consultation with Documentation
Take the physiotherapist's letter to the GP
GP performs an examination
GP completes Medicare item 63560 referral
Referral must specify "acute knee trauma" and clinical findings
Step 4: Book at Bulk-Billing Centre
Not all centres bulk-bill MRI. Confirmed options include:
Most public hospital imaging departments
Selected I-MED locations
Capitol Health selected sites
University-affiliated centers
Step 5: Alternative if Over 49
If you're over 49, you need a specialist referral for Rebate:
See a sports medicine physician or an orthopedic surgeon
More expensive consultation ($200-$400)
But significant MRI rebate ($200-$375)
Net savings are often worthwhile
Total potential saving: $350-$550 per scan
When MRI Isn't Worth the Cost
Sometimes, less expensive imaging provides better value:
Consider Ultrasound Instead When:
Tendon injuries: Achilles, rotator cuff tears
Muscle injuries: Hamstring, calf muscle tears
Superficial structures: Plantar fasciitis assessment
Dynamic assessment needed: Real-time movement evaluation
Cost difference: $300-$500 savings over MRI
Read our guide: "Ultrasound vs MRI: Which is Better for Your Injury?"
Consider a CT Scan Instead When:
Bone injuries: Fractures, bone tumours. Emergencies: Faster scanning
Claustrophobia issues: Open CT vs closed MRI
Cost difference: $200-$400 savings over MRI
Learn more: "CT vs MRI: Cost and Clinical Comparison"
Consider Conservative Treatment First When:
Mild symptoms: May resolve without imaging
Precise diagnosis: Physical examination sufficient
Treatment wouldn't change: Surgery is not being considered
Cost-benefit ratio: Treatment costs less than imaging
Frequently Asked Questions About MRI Costs
Can physiotherapists refer for MRI scans?
Yes, physiotherapists can refer you for MRI scans, but you will not receive a Medicare rebate. This means you'll pay the full cost ($350-$600) out of pocket. However, physiotherapist referrals can be valuable for:
Same-day referral during your appointment
Expert clinical assessment of the need for MRI
Coordination with GP for bulk-billed referrals when criteria are met
Avoiding unnecessary GP consultation fees
Why are MRI scans so expensive compared to other imaging?
MRI scans are expensive because:
Equipment costs: MRI machines cost $1-3 million
Operating expenses: High electricity and maintenance costs
Specialist reporting: Radiologist expertise required
Time intensive: 30-90 minutes vs 5 minutes for X-ray
Limited Medicare support: Most scans receive no government rebate
How long do I wait for an MRI?
Waiting times vary significantly:
Private urgent: 1-3 days ($500-$700)
Private routine: 1-2 weeks ($350-$600)
Public hospital: 2-8 weeks ($100-$300)
Bulk-billed conditions: 1-4 weeks ($0)
Can I get an MRI without a referral?
Technically, yes, but it's costly ($600-$1000) and does not receive a Medicare rebate. You need a referral from a registered health professional for any Medicare benefits.
What happens if I'm claustrophobic?
Options include:
Open MRI machines: Less claustrophobic but lower quality images
Sedation: Additional $100-$200 cost
Alternative imaging: CT scan or ultrasound, if appropriate
Relaxation techniques: Many centres offer support
Are contrast agents safe?
MRI contrast (gadolinium-based) is generally very safe with:
Allergy rate: Less than 1% of patients
Kidney function: Checked before contrast use
Pregnancy: Avoided unless essential
Additional cost: $50-$100 for contrast studies
How do I prepare for an MRI?
Before your scan:
Remove all metal objects (jewellery, piercings, belt buckles)
Inform staff of any metal implants or devices
Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing
Arrive 15-30 minutes early for paperwork
Bring your Medicare card and referral
What to expect:
Loud knocking/buzzing sounds (earplugs provided)
Need to lie still for 30-90 minutes
Communication with the technologist via intercom
Results are typically available within 24-48 hours
Comparing MRI to Other Medical Costs
Understanding MRI costs in the context of other healthcare expenses:
Service Average Cost Medicare Rebate Evolutio Guide MRI Scan $200-$600 $0-$375* This article CT Scan $100-$400 $40-$195 CT Cost Guide Ultrasound $50-$150 $40-$120 Ultrasound Guide X-ray $20-$80 $30-$50 X-ray Guide Physiotherapy $100-$175 $60-$80† Physio Costs Cortisone Injection $240-$365 $125 Injection Guide
*MRI rebates only with specialist referrals meeting strict criteria
†With GP referral under Enhanced Primary Care plans
Related Healthcare Services at Evolutio
SpeciSpecialisedry Assessment
Our team can help determine if an expensive MRI is necessary:
• Sports Medicine Expertise: Comprehensive injury evaluation to avoid unnecessary imaging • ACL Rehabilitation: Specialist assessment and treatment with Phill Danzi • Cycling Injury Assessment: Expert evaluation with Gemma Mollenhauer • Running Injury Analysis: Biomechanical assessment to identify injury causes
Cost-Effective Treatment Approaches
• Treatment Pricing: Transparent pricing for all services • Conservative management: Often resolves issues without expensive imaging • Targeted rehabilitation: Evidence-based treatment protocols • Prevention strategies: Avoid future injuries and imaging costs
External Resources and Support
Government Resources
• Medicare Benefits Schedule: Official MRI item numbers and rebates • Services Australia: Medicare eligibility and claims information • Australian Government Health Department: Healthcare policy and updates • Australian Radiation Protection Agency (ARPANSA): MRI safety information
Professional Organisations: Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy: Imaging professional standards • Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists: Specialist imaging guidelines • Australian Physiotherapy Association: Professional referral guidelines
Financial Support
• Department of Human Services: Concession card benefits • Private Health Insurance Ombudsman: Insurance coverage disputes • Australian Taxation Office: Medical expense tax deductions
Conclusion: Making Smart MRI Decisions
Understanding MRI costs in Australia empowers you to make informed healthcare decisions. With prices ranging from $0 (for bulk-billed qualifying conditions) to over $ 700 (for private, non-rebated scans), understanding the system can save you hundreds of dollars.
Key takeaways for 2025: • Bulk billing criteria are strict: Only specific conditions and age groups qualify • Physiotherapist assessment first: Can determine if MRI is necessary and help coordinate GP referrals • Alternative imaging often sufficient: Ultrasound or CT may provide needed information at lower cost • Public hospitals offer savings: Significant cost reductions with longer wait times • Specialist referrals unlock rebates: Worth the consultation cost for expensive scans
Your Next Steps
If you need an MRI:
Get expert assessment: Book with our physiotherapy team to evaluate the necessity
Check eligibility: Verify if you meet Bulkk billing criteria
Compare options: Public vs private vs alternative imaging
Coordinate referrals: We can help facilitate GP referrals for qualifying conditions
If you're unsure about the necessity of an MRI:
Conservative trial first: Many conditions improve without imaging
Alternative imaging: Consider cheaper options like ultrasound
Expert consultation: Professional assessment can guide decision-making
Expert MRI Guidance at Evolutio
At Evolutio, we help patients navigate expensive imaging decisions:
Our approach: • Clinical expertise: 8- 15+ years experience in sports medicine • Evidence-based decisions: Recommend imaging only when necessary • Cost-conscious care: Help access bulk billing when possible • Alternative solutions: Often resolve issues without expensive scans • Comprehensive treatment: Address underlying causes, not just symptoms
Why choose Evolutio for MRI guidance: • Team expertise: Specialists in sports injuries and complex conditions • Direct imaging partnerships: Relationships with cost-effective providers like Lumus Imaging • Holistic approach: Consider your overall health and financial situation • Proven results: Help patients avoid unnecessary imaging costs while achieving excellent outcomes
Ready to make an informed decision about MRI? Contact Evolutio today for expert assessment and guidance.
📍 Evolutio Sports Physiotherapy
🏥 Richmond, Melbourne
📞 Book online or call for a consultation
💡 Specialist services: ACL rehabilitation, cycling physio, sports medicine
This comprehensive guide is updated regularly to reflect current Australian healthcare costs and Medicare changes. Last updated: 2025. Always confirm current pricing and Medicare eligibility directly with providers and Medicare before making decisions.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. MRI costs and Medicare eligibility are subject to change. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals for specific medical guidance and current pricing information.
Financial Disclaimer: Costs mentioned are estimates based on available data and may vary significantly between providers and locations. Always confirm exact costs before booking any medical imaging services.
