The New South Wales Government is urging families to make greater use of free public health services ahead of winter, arguing that expanded access to urgent care, bulk-billing and mental health support could ease pressure on household budgets and hospital emergency departments.
The campaign comes as health authorities prepare for the annual spike in flu and respiratory illnesses, with the state promoting services ranging from virtual GP consultations to free dental care and needle-free flu vaccines for young children.
According to NSW Health estimates, a family of four with two children under five could save close to $1,200 a year by relying on publicly funded health programs already operating across the state.
The government says one of the biggest savings could come from avoiding out-of-pocket GP fees. NSW residents can now access free virtual care statewide, alongside a network of urgent care services intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions outside hospital emergency departments.
Officials say urgent and virtual care services have been used more than 145,000 times since July last year. The state has committed $224 million towards the operation of 25 urgent care centres spread across metropolitan and regional NSW.
Health authorities point to survey data showing one in 10 people who attended emergency departments believed their condition could have been treated by a GP or another health professional.
The average out-of-pocket cost for a GP visit currently sits at around $44, according to figures cited by the government. With Australians attending an average of six GP appointments a year, the state argues the savings could be considerable for regular users of free alternatives.
Premier Chris Minns said families were continuing to face financial pressure from everyday living costs.
“Basic healthcare shouldn’t be difficult or prohibitively expensive to access,” he said.
“We recognise families are under real pressure right now, with the rising cost of mortgages, rents, food and fuel, and we don’t want basic healthcare to take a backseat.”
The state is also promoting a free nasal spray flu vaccine for children aged between two and four. The vaccine, available through participating GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and pharmacies, is designed as an alternative to injections.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has estimated the private cost of the nasal spray vaccine at between $70 and $80.
While flu and COVID-19 numbers remain relatively low at present, NSW Health noted that influenza-related hospital presentations climbed to around 1,100 a week during last winter’s peak period.
Health Minister Ryan Park said the services were intended to help families avoid unnecessary hospital visits during the colder months.
“More people could be taking advantage of these services and I am encouraging more people to use them ahead of a busy winter,” he said.
“It could spare you an unnecessary visit to the ED, which are typically very busy during winter.”
Alongside urgent care and vaccinations, the government is highlighting a range of other no-cost programs, including child and family health services for parents with children under five.
These services provide developmental checks, parenting support and advice around feeding, sleep and behaviour. NSW Health estimates families could save close to $400 by using the service instead of private alternatives.
The state is also continuing to expand public dental programs for children. Under the scheme, all children in NSW are eligible for free dental treatment through the public system, regardless of whether they qualify for the federal Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
The government recently announced additional mobile dental vans aimed at improving access in regional and rural communities through school-based programs and outreach services.
NSW Health estimates the average saving for families using the public dental system is around $658 compared with private care.
Mental health support has also become a focus of the state’s winter health messaging. NSW currently funds 24 Medicare Mental Health Centres and Kids Hubs across locations including Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Blacktown and Broken Hill.
The clinics provide free mental health care and support services, with NSW Health estimating savings of between $90 and $180 per session when compared with private treatment.
Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said demand for the centres had continued to rise in 2025, particularly in areas including Lismore, Liverpool and Penrith.
“Getting help for your mental health should be easy and free,” she said.
The government’s announcement arrives amid continuing debate over healthcare affordability and access across Australia, particularly as many households continue to manage rising living expenses and growing pressure on primary care services. Critics of state and federal health systems have previously warned that shortages of bulk-billing clinics in some areas still leave patients facing long waits or limited options, particularly outside major cities.
NSW Health says the latest campaign is intended to raise awareness of services already available rather than introduce new eligibility requirements, with officials encouraging residents to seek early care before winter illnesses intensify.
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