Reviewed and updated 1 September 2025
How do ambulance services work in the ACT?
If you live in the ACT, you have to pay for being treated by paramedics and transported by ambulance.
You can find the fees and charges for ambulances services in the ACT on the ACT Emergency Services Agency’s website.
You do not have to pay for ambulance services if you hold a:
- Health Care Card
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card
- Department of Veteran’s Affairs White Card (in some cases).
You do not have to pay for ambulance services if:
- You are injured in a motor vehicle accident
- You are an ACT school student and become ill at school or during a school excursion
- You are a victim of violent crime, domestic or family violence, or sexual assault
- You are a minor under a care order
- You die while under the care of the ACT Ambulance Service
- You are assessed by request of an on-duty emergency services person (but not transported to hospital)
- You meet certain criteria of the Mental Health Act 2015.
Should I take out Ambulance Cover if I live in the ACT?
If you live in the ACT and you do not fall into one of the exceptions, you may want to take out Ambulance Cover.
You can buy Ambulance Cover from a health insurer. In many cases, it is included in Hospital Cover or Extras Cover. Check with your insurer to find out whether your policy includes ambulance services.
How do I find the cheapest Ambulance Cover if I live in the ACT?
If you live in the ACT and want to find the cheapest Ambulance Cover, you can use our healthslips.com.au Calculator.