If your scan is bulk billed and you have a valid referral, you may pay nothing. Where it isn't bulk billed, typical out-of-pocket costs are roughly $0–$120 for an X-ray, $100–$400 for a CT and $200–$500+ for an MRI, depending on whether the scan is covered by a Medicare item number. Always ask the clinic for a quote and whether they bulk bill before you book.
Key takeaways
- Many imaging tests attract a Medicare rebate when you have a referral and the scan has an MBS item number.
- Bulk-billing clinics charge you nothing; others charge a 'gap' (the difference above the rebate).
- Not every MRI is Medicare-eligible — eligibility depends on the referral and the machine's licensing.
- Always ask for a quote and whether they bulk bill before you book.
Imaging prices in Australia vary a lot between clinics, and the bill depends almost entirely on two things: whether the scan has a Medicare item number, and whether the clinic bulk bills. Here’s how it actually works.
Typical costs at a glance
These are indicative out-of-pocket ranges where the scan isn’t bulk billed. Actual prices vary by clinic, body part, and whether contrast is used.
| Scan | Indicative full fee | Typical out-of-pocket (gap) |
|---|---|---|
| X-ray | $70–$300 | $0–$120 |
| Ultrasound | $120–$350 | $0–$150 |
| CT scan | $300–$800 | $100–$400 |
| MRI | $400–$1,000+ | $200–$500+ |
Will Medicare cover it?
If you have a referral from your GP or specialist and the scan matches an eligible MBS (Medicare Benefits Schedule) item, Medicare pays a rebate.[1] At a bulk-billing clinic, the clinic accepts that rebate as full payment and you pay nothing. At other clinics, you pay the gap — the difference between the clinic’s fee and the rebate.
MRI is the main exception to watch: not every MRI is Medicare-eligible. It depends on the referral type and whether the scanner is Medicare-licensed for that service. Always confirm before booking.[1]
Why the same scan costs different amounts
Because Medicare pays a fixed rebate but each clinic sets its own fee, the gap for an identical scan can differ a lot between providers.[2] The MBS item number matters far less to you than the practical question: what will I actually pay here?
How to avoid bill shock
- Ask the clinic directly: “Do you bulk bill this, and if not, what’s my out-of-pocket cost?”
- Check whether contrast is needed — it can add to the fee.
- Compare a hospital outpatient department with a private radiology clinic; prices differ.
- Use the government Medical Costs Finder to see typical fees.[2]
- If cost is a barrier, tell your GP — they can sometimes direct you to a bulk-billing provider.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my MRI so much more expensive than my friend’s?
MRI eligibility depends on who referred you and the machine’s Medicare licensing. An ineligible MRI gets no rebate, so you pay the full fee — which is why costs vary so much. Confirm eligibility before booking.[1]
Is a CT or MRI ever free?
Yes — if the scan is Medicare-eligible and the clinic bulk bills, you pay nothing. Bulk billing is each clinic’s own decision, so it’s worth ringing around.[1]
Sources
- Services Australia — Medicare and the MBS — www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare
- Australian Government Department of Health — Medical Costs Finder — www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/medical-costs-finder
- RANZCR / InsideRadiology — Patient information — www.insideradiology.com.au/
