MBS M10 vs GPCCMP Plan for Speech Therapy: What Parents Need to Know

If you’re concerned about your child’s speech, you may have heard about Medicare rebates for speech therapy. Two common pathways are M10 and a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP).

They both provide financial support, but they work very differently. This guide explains the difference so you can understand what may be available for your child.

What is a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP)?

A GPCCMP is a plan prepared by your GP when your child has a condition expected to last six months or more.

It allows access to allied health services, including speech pathology.

How many sessions can my child get under a GP plan?

You can access up to five Medicare-rebated allied health sessions per calendar year.

These sessions are shared across all allied health providers. For example, you might use:

• Five speech pathology sessions, OR

• Three speech pathology sessions and two occupational therapy sessions

How much is the Medicare rebate for a GPCCMP plan?

The current Medicare rebate is $61.80 per session.

There is usually a gap fee. The gap fee is the difference between the provider’s fee and the Medicare rebate.

Fees vary between clinics, so it is important to check with your provider.

What is M10?

M10 refers to a group of Medicare items under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) designed for children and young people with eligible neurodevelopmental conditions or disabilities.

Since March 2026, this pathway has expanded to include:

• Stuttering

• Speech sound disorders (including articulation and phonological disorders)

• Childhood apraxia of speech

• Cleft lip and/or palate

M10 is available for children and young people under 25.

How many sessions are available under M10?

M10 provides:

• Up to 8 assessment sessions (lifetime)

• Up to 20 treatment sessions (lifetime)

These are not yearly limits. They are capped across the person’s lifetime.

How much is the Medicare rebate for M10?

The current Medicare rebate is $87.25 per session.

Most speech pathology services do not bulk bill, so there is usually a gap fee. The amount depends on the provider’s fees.

What do I need to access M10?

A referral is required from:

• A GP

• A paediatrician

• A psychiatrist

Can I use M10 with NDIS or private health insurance?

No. You cannot claim Medicare and:

• NDIS funding, or

• Private health insurance

for the same session.

What is the difference between M10 and a GP plan?

GPCCMP:

• Up to 5 sessions per year

• Can be used for a range of conditions

• no specific age limit

M10:

• 8 assessment sessions (lifetime) + 20 treatment sessions (lifetime)

• Designed for specific diagnosed conditions

• Under the age of 25

Can my child have both M10 and a GP plan?

Yes, it is possible to have both.

However, you cannot claim both for the same session on the same day.

Will Medicare cover all of my child’s speech therapy?

Medicare rebates reduce the cost, but they do not usually cover the full fee. Ongoing therapy often requires additional private sessions.

What should I do next?

If you are unsure which pathway is suitable, or how to get started, it can help to speak with a speech pathologist or your GP.