Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Young people over 15 years of age can apply for their own Medicare card and it is sometimes possible for a young person to agree to their own medical treatment.
  • If you are under 18, the law is not always clear about how old you must be to agree to or refuse medical treatment.
  • Even if you are under 18 you can see a doctor for minor medical issues such as getting treatment for a virus, cold or acne.
  • In certain circumstances, you can also see a doctor for medical advice and treatment on sexual matters, including abortion and contraception, without your parents knowing.
  • You can access a range of free or low-cost health services, including services for mental health and dental health, community health services and support services if you have a disability.
  • There are free health services available for young asylum seekers and refugees.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 19-10-2015