Did you know that our Medicare coverage gets cancelled after living permanently overseas for 5 years? Fact.
Starts from date of first departure.
Only gets reinstated when you relocate back to Australia permanently.
A short visit home doesnt reset the 5 years.
We all know its not useable outside of Aust unless the country has reciprocal cover , but dont get caught out after 5 years going home for free healthcare.
Edit## This doesnt apply if you still pay tax in Australia. ##
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TLDR : Answer Summary
Aussie expats should be aware that their Medicare coverage may be affected after living permanently overseas for five years. This coverage begins from the date of initial departure and is restored only upon returning permanently to Australia. Short visits do not reset the five-year period. However, there are mixed opinions among current expats regarding the enforcement of these rules, with some reporting no issues accessing Medicare after extended absences.
Total bullshit sorry, I am an Australian and never had an issue going back for Medicare, was back in Sydney in November last year and was able to see my bulk billing GP and full blood work for free under Medicare
Steven ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
I dont pay tax there anymore (but did for 33 years) and dont own property there anymore so this rule applies to me after 5 years and anyone else who is same. 😞
Mint ****
Yes your correct I pay the Medicare levy and also the stupid surcharge as I am in the top tax bracket, as I don't have private health insurance for Australia, yet I pay for private health here, so I kinda get stung twice :(
Steven ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Then it doesnt apply to you because you still pay tax and probably medicare levy too.
Mint ****
Steven de Blaquiere yes more then 5 years, i still pay tax as I am employed by an Australian company with a subsidiary here in Chiang Mai
. Im only going by what Medicare told me in person and what their website states..
Has it been more than 5 years?
Do you still pay tax in Australia or own property there?
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Steven ***************
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Kerry ********
Mnnn. Not sure that’s right... we have been away 6 years and just come back from Aust... no problems with Medicare... had full health check and blood work done not worries..