In Australia, a GP referral is required before you consult the practitioner who will perform cosmetic surgery. This page explains when you need a referral, what the letter should include, how cooling‑off and consent work, and what to ask your GP so you arrive at your consultation prepared.
Any Australian‑registered GP or non‑cosmetic medical specialist independent of the clinic.
Goals, relevant history, medications/allergies, screening notes and exam findings.
Accepted if issued by an Australian GP/specialist and properly documented.
How to book with your GP, what to bring, and what the letter should say.
Verify AHPRA registration and endorsements before booking.
Understand risks, consent documents and timelines.
Ask for a referral template and pre‑consult checklist.
The Medical Board of Australia’s cosmetic surgery guidelines require a referral before any consultation with the practitioner who will perform cosmetic surgery. Below is a plain‑English summary to help you comply and prepare.
All patients seeking cosmetic surgery (adults and under 18s) require a referral before consulting the performing practitioner.
An Australian‑registered GP or non‑cosmetic medical specialist not associated with the surgery provider.
Clear clinical context helps the surgeon tailor your consultation and safety screening.
These steps protect patients and allow time to reflect before committing.
Follow these steps to stay compliant and arrive at your consultation prepared. If you need a simple referral template to share with your GP, we can send you one.
Use this checklist to make your appointment more productive. A clear, detailed referral supports safety screening and a better first consultation.
Quick answers to the most common compliance and pre‑booking questions about GP referrals in Australia.
These are covered by different rules. The referral requirement described here applies to cosmetic surgery. If you are unsure whether your planned treatment is cosmetic surgery or a non‑surgical procedure, ask your provider or GP.
The guidelines require a referral from a doctor — an Australian‑registered GP or non‑cosmetic medical specialist. Allied health professionals and cosmetic practitioners should not write your referral.
It can be addressed to a named practitioner or to an appropriate specialty (for example, “Specialist Plastic Surgeon”). If you already know the surgeon, a named referral is helpful.
You can book with any Australian‑registered GP. Telehealth options may be available. Ensure they are independent from the cosmetic clinic you plan to visit.
No. A referral is a regulatory requirement for consultation. Medicare/private health eligibility depends on medical necessity and specific MBS item criteria. See our guide on Medicare & Private Health.
No. For adults, at least 7 days must pass after signing informed consent before surgery can be booked or a deposit taken. For patients under 18, the cooling‑off period is a minimum of 3 months.
We can send you a referral template, a pre‑consultation checklist, and guidance on cooling‑off and consent. Share a few details and our Australian team will reply within 1 business day.
What it should include and how to share it with your chosen practice.
Consultations, timelines, costs, Medicare and surgeon verification links.