PBS Price Guide: How Aussie Prescription Costs Are Set

Ever wonder why some meds cost a fraction of others? In Australia the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) decides what you pay at the pharmacy. Knowing the basics can save you money and keep you on track with treatment.

What Is the PBS Price?

The PBS price is the amount the government subsidises for a listed medicine. When a drug appears on the PBS, you usually only pay the patient co‑payment (about $30 for general patients, $6.80 for concessional). Anything above that is covered by Medicare.

How to Spot a Good PBS Deal

Check the official PBS website or use our drug lookup tool. It shows the current co‑payment, any safety net thresholds and whether a brand or generic version is cheaper. Often the generic entry costs the same co‑pay but saves you on extra fees if you need a larger pack.

If you have a chronic condition, hitting the PBS Safety Net can drop your co‑payments to $10 for the rest of the calendar year. Keep an eye on your total spend – once you cross the threshold, every prescription gets that lower price.

Pharmacies also run their own discount programs that stack on top of PBS subsidies. Ask the pharmacist if they have a “PBS plus” deal or a loyalty card that reduces out‑of‑pocket costs further.

When you’re shopping online, look for reputable Australian pharmacies that list the PBS price clearly. Avoid sites that hide the co‑payment or promise huge discounts without showing the official PBS amount – those are usually scams.

Bottom line: know your PBS co‑pay, use the safety net, and compare generic vs brand listings. With a little effort you can keep prescription bills low while staying on the right medication.