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Medicare & Mental Health

Our fight for the Better Access program

To find out more about how the AASW is working towards having this decision overturned click here

There is also a fact sheet on ATAPS explaining why the transfer of resources from the Medicare Program to ATAPS is not like for like.

Mental Health Social Workers

Mental Health Social Workers have a breadth of experience in assessing and working effectively with people experiencing:

  • Depression and other mood disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Psychosis
  • Relationship problems
  • Adjustment issues
  • Family conflicts
  • Personality disorders
  • Suicidal thought
  • Life crises
  • Trauma


Mental Health Social Workers help individuals with mental health problems to resolve associated psychosocial issues and improve their quality of life. This may involve family as well as individual counselling, and group therapy.

Find an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker


Mental Health Social Worker Accreditation

The Australian Association of Social Workers is the accrediting body on behalf of Medicare Australia and the Australian Government for assessment of Accredited Mental Health Social Workers.

Successful applicants are able to apply to Medicare Australia for a Medicare Provider Number and access referrals under the following programs:

Please note: whether or not changes to the Better Access program take place, all Accredited Mental Health Social Workers will be able to continue to provide services under the following programs:

  • Chronic Disease management program (GP Management Plan & Team Care Arrangements) – Mental Health Worker – Item number 10956
  • Non-directive Pregnancy Support Counselling service (once additional qualifications have been completed) – Item number 81005
  • Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS) which is part of the Better Outcomes in Mental Health Care (BOiMHC) funded via GP Networks.


Purpose of assessment

  • To determine if your qualifications and work experience demonstrate that you meet the requirements to practice as a Mental Health Social Worker.


Assessment framework

  • Current accredited membership of AASW
  • Evidence of at least 2 years (post qualifying) social work practice experience in mental health or related field and how this experience meets the standards outlined in AASW Practice Standards for Mental Health Social Workers (2008)
  • Evidence of receiving at least 2 years (post qualifying) supervision in mental health or related field
  • Description of main therapeutic practice
  • Current curriculum vitae
  • A testimonial from an employer or supervisor


For more information or to start your application

  1. Read AASW Requirements for Accreditation to Practice as a Mental Health Social Worker
  2. Read AASW Practice Standards for Mental Health Social Workers (2008)
  3. Read Frequently Asked Questions
  4. Download the Application Form
  5. Contact our Mental Health Accreditation team if you require assistance


Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirements

Accredited Mental Health Social Workers are required to accrue 30 CPE points specificallly relevant to mental health each CPE cycle. Click here for full details.

Special Notes

Pregnancy Support Counselling
The application process for Non-directive Pregnancy Support Counselling is a separate assessment process. Please click here for further information.

Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS)
Social Workers wishing to practice under this initiative should contact their local Division of General Practice.