Children’s Health
From newborns to teenagers, Family Doctor clinics provide friendly, family-oriented GP care for children across Australia. Many of our clinics bulk bill children under 16, offer routine immunisations on the National Immunisation Program, and have GPs with special interests in paediatric care.
Comprehensive GP Care for Babies, Children and Teens
Our GPs care for children through every stage — from 6-week newborn checks and childhood immunisations, to school-age illnesses, allergies, asthma, mental health, and adolescent health. We work with parents to build a long-term relationship so your child has a trusted GP they know.
Childhood Immunisations (National Immunisation Program)
Family Doctor clinics are registered National Immunisation Program (NIP) providers. All routine childhood vaccines listed on the NIP — including 6-week, 4-month, 6-month, 12-month, 18-month, 4-year, and Year 7 school vaccinations — are provided free to eligible children. The consultation to administer them is also bulk billed in most cases.
We use the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) so your child’s vaccination record is available nationally and can be accessed by childcare, schools and Medicare.
Healthy Kids Check (4-Year Health Assessment)
The Healthy Kids Check (MBS item 709) is a one-off health assessment available for children aged 3 to 5, usually done at age 4 before starting school. It covers height, weight, vision, hearing, dental, toileting, allergies, and general development. This assessment is bulk billed at most Family Doctor clinics.
Bulk Billing for Children Under 16
Most Family Doctor clinics bulk bill children under the age of 16 for standard GP consultations, meaning there is no out-of-pocket cost for parents. Check our bulk billing page for a list of fully-bulk-billing clinics, or call your nearest clinic to confirm their children’s billing policy.
Common Childhood Illnesses and Conditions
- Coughs, colds, ear infections and sore throats
- Fevers and viral illness
- Skin rashes, eczema and dermatitis
- Asthma and allergy management
- Gastro, vomiting and dehydration
- Developmental concerns and milestones
- Behavioural and sleep concerns
- School readiness and learning difficulties
- Growth and nutrition monitoring
Adolescent Health and Mental Health
Teenagers can see our GPs on their own from around age 14, and consultations are confidential within the limits of the law. We cover puberty, mental health, acne, menstrual health, contraception, sexual health, vaccinations, sports injuries, and school stress. Mental Health Treatment Plans are available for teens experiencing anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns — see our mental health page.
After-Hours and Weekend Appointments
Many Family Doctor clinics offer extended hours, Saturday mornings, or 7-day opening so you can bring your child in without taking time off work. Check your nearest clinic’s hours on its individual clinic page.
Find a Family Doctor Clinic Near You
With over 114 clinics across Australia, a Family Doctor GP is likely near you. Use our clinic finder to locate your nearest clinic and book an appointment for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are childhood vaccinations free?
Yes — all vaccines on the National Immunisation Program schedule are free for eligible children. Family Doctor clinics also bulk bill the consultation fee when administering NIP vaccinations in most cases, so there is no out-of-pocket cost.
Do you bulk bill children?
Most Family Doctor clinics bulk bill children under 16 for standard consultations. See our bulk billing page for confirmed fully-bulk-billing clinics, or contact your nearest clinic to ask about their children’s billing policy.
At what age can my child see a GP without me?
There is no fixed legal age, but most GPs will see a child aged 14 or older on their own if they are considered “Gillick competent” — that is, mature enough to understand the consultation. For younger children, a parent or guardian should attend.
Do you do school entry health checks?
Yes. Most Family Doctor clinics offer the Healthy Kids Check (4-year health assessment) which covers everything needed for school entry. Book a long consultation so your GP has enough time to complete the assessment.
Can I book telehealth for my child?
Yes, for non-urgent concerns where your GP does not need to physically examine your child — things like follow-up discussions, medication reviews, or behavioural questions. For anything involving a physical examination (fevers, rashes, injuries) we recommend an in-person appointment.