Australia PBS Amoxicillin Price – What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever needed a course of amoxicillin, you’ve probably wondered how much the government subsidy will actually save you. In Australia the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) caps the amount most people pay, but the exact figure can change each year. Below you’ll get the latest price, a quick look at how the PBS works, and a few simple tricks to keep your out‑of‑pocket costs down.

How PBS Sets the Amoxicillin Price

The PBS decides on a “schedule” price for each medicine based on negotiations with manufacturers and the drug’s therapeutic value. For amoxicillin, the schedule price is usually a few dollars per pack, and the patient contribution (the amount you actually pay) is set by the government. As of the most recent update, a standard 500 mg tablet pack of 21 tablets costs about AU$5.50 for most concession card holders and around AU$30 for general patients. If you have a safety net, any extra spending beyond the annual threshold is refunded, meaning the price could effectively drop to zero after you hit the limit.

Brands matter too. The PBS only subsidises the generic version of amoxicillin, so if you end up with a brand‑name label you’ll pay the full price. Always ask your pharmacist to give you the PBS‑listed generic unless you have a specific reason for a brand.

Saving Tips and Alternatives

First, check your concession status. Seniors, pensioners, and low‑income earners qualify for a lower patient contribution. If you’re not sure, a quick call to Medicare can confirm your eligibility.

Second, keep an eye on the PBS safety‑net thresholds. In 2024 the general threshold is around AU$1,566 for the year. Once you cross that line, any further PBS medicines are free for the rest of the calendar year.

Third, ask for a split‑pack if you only need a short course. Some pharmacies will dispense just the number of tablets you require, which can avoid waste and keep you from paying for extra tablets you’ll never use.

Finally, consider telehealth or online pharmacies that partner with Australian PBS pharmacies. They can often fill prescriptions faster and sometimes offer additional discounts on top of the PBS price.

Bottom line: the PBS keeps amoxicillin affordable, but you still have a few levers to pull. Know your concession status, track your safety‑net spending, request the generic version, and don’t shy away from asking the pharmacist for a split‑pack. With these steps you’ll get the right antibiotic without breaking the bank.