Medicare Levy Surcharge Threshold Changes

On 16 October 2008, the Federal Government approved changes to the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS). The surcharge income threshold was raised to $70,000 for singles and $140,000 for couples/families. These changes apply from 1 July 2008.

A QUICK GUIDE TO THE MLS:

What is the surcharge?
The MLS imposes a 1 per cent levy, in addition to the standard Medicare Levy of 1.5 per cent.

Who pays the surcharge?
Individuals and families earning above the income threshold who do not have private hospital cover.

What were the thresholds?
$50,000 for singles
$100,000 for couples/families

What are the new income thresholds, effective 1 July 2008?
$70,000 for singles
$140,000 for couples/families.

With any Health Partners hospital cover, you can avoid paying the MLS and you’ll be covered as a private patient in any participating hospital of your choice Australia-wide… if you need it.

We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.