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Bulk-Billed HIV PrEP Prescriptions
Medically reviewed by Dr Vafa Derakshan, MBBS, FRACGP · AHPRA MED0001663310 · Last reviewed: 23 September 2026
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medicine you take before sex to prevent HIV. In Australia it's usually a tablet containing 2 antiviral medications. Taken as prescribed, it's highly effective at preventing HIV. Our doctors can start you on PrEP, arrange the tests you need and send your eScript to your phone.
How to get PrEP online in Australia
- Book a phone or video consult. Same-day appointments are usually available, 7 days a week. Let the doctor know if you're starting PrEP for the first time or already taking it.
- Do your tests at a local pathology centre. We send the pathology request straight after your consult. You can go to any collection centre near you.
- Get your eScript. Once your doctor has reviewed your results, your eScript is sent to your phone. You can fill it at any pharmacy.
- Stay on track every 3 months. A quick review and repeat tests keep your PrEP safe and your scripts up to date.
PrEP is a prescription medicine in Australia, so you need a doctor's assessment and an HIV test before you start. We prescribe PrEP Australia-wide, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and regional areas.
Who PrEP is for
Australian guidelines recommend PrEP for anyone at risk of HIV, including gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, trans and gender-diverse people, heterosexual men and women, and people who inject drugs. You may benefit if, in the last 3 months, you've had condomless sex with a partner whose HIV status is unknown or who isn't on effective treatment, had an STI, or used drugs during sex.
Tests before you start
- An HIV blood test within 7 days of starting
- Kidney function (blood test and urine test)
- Hepatitis A, B and C tests
- An STI check for gonorrhoea, chlamydia and syphilis
- A pregnancy test, if relevant
We send the pathology request straight after your consult, and your doctor reviews the results before prescribing.
Daily or on-demand PrEP
Daily PrEP is one tablet every day. Guidelines advise it takes 7 days of daily doses to reach highly effective protection.
On-demand (2-1-1) PrEP is 2 tablets 2 to 24 hours before sex, then 1 tablet 24 hours and 1 tablet 48 hours after the first dose. It can suit cisgender men, and people assigned male at birth who aren't taking oestradiol, who have sex less often and can plan ahead. It is not suitable for cisgender women, trans women taking oestrogen or people who inject drugs. On-demand dosing isn't TGA-approved in Australia, so your doctor will talk it through with you.
Staying on PrEP
You need an HIV test and STI check every 3 months while on PrEP, and a kidney check at 3 months and then every 6 months. We'll remind you and send the pathology request with each review.
Cost
Consultations are bulk-billed for eligible Medicare card holders. PrEP is PBS-listed, so from 1 January 2026 you pay no more than $25.00 per script, or $7.70 with a concession card. Without Medicare, your doctor can give you a private script or discuss importing a generic under the TGA's personal importation scheme.
Side effects
Some people have nausea, headache or diarrhoea in the first few weeks, which usually settles. PrEP can cause small, reversible changes in kidney function and bone density, which is why regular kidney tests are part of your care.
What PrEP doesn't do
PrEP doesn't protect against other STIs, so condoms and regular STI testing still matter. If you're at higher risk of syphilis, ask about Doxy-PEP. If you've had a possible HIV exposure in the last 72 hours, you need PEP first. You can move straight from PEP onto PrEP.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get PrEP online in Australia?
Yes. A doctor can assess you by phone or video, arrange your tests and, if PrEP is right for you, send an eScript to your phone. You fill it at any pharmacy.
Can I buy PrEP online without a prescription?
No. PrEP is a prescription medicine in Australia. You need a doctor's assessment and a negative HIV test before starting, and we can arrange both by telehealth.
I'm already on PrEP. Can you continue my script?
Yes. Tell us when your last tests were done. Your doctor will arrange any tests that are due and can continue your script once the results are reviewed.
Is PrEP bulk billed?
The consultation is bulk-billed for eligible Medicare card holders. The medicine is PBS-listed, so you pay the standard PBS co-payment at the pharmacy: up to $25.00 per script from 1 January 2026, or $7.70 with a concession card.
How long does PrEP take to work?
Australian guidelines advise that daily PrEP reaches highly effective protection after 7 days of daily doses. With on-demand PrEP, the first double dose is taken 2 to 24 hours before sex.
Do I need to see a doctor in person?
No. Your consultation is by phone or video, and your tests are done at a local pathology collection centre. Your eScript is sent to your phone.
How often do I need tests on PrEP?
An HIV test and STI check every 3 months, and a kidney check at 3 months and then every 6 months.
Does PrEP protect against other STIs?
No. PrEP only prevents HIV. Condoms and regular STI testing are still important.
Sources: ASHM National PrEP Guidelines (2025); PBS: antiviral (item 11296M); PBS: current patient fees and charges.
