Government Funded CPAP Machines
Government-Funded CPAP Machines in Australia
When you’re managing sleep apnea, the costs of treatment can feel overwhelming at first. A common question many Australians ask is: Are CPAP machines covered by the government? The good news is, there are several funding options available depending on your circumstances and knowing where to look can make CPAP therapy much more affordable.
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we believe quality sleep is essential to health and wellbeing. That’s why we’re here to guide you through every step, from understanding funding programs to selecting the right machine and mask for your needs.
On this page, we’ll explore you the government and private support options available in Australia, compliance tips to maximise your benefits, and how Sove can help make this journey easier.
Government Support Depends on Various Factors
Government assistance for CPAP therapy differs by state and territory, your age, and whether you’re accessing care through the public health or private health system. Some hospitals may lend you a machine, while others provide partial subsidies or require co-payments. There’s no national blanket scheme offering a “free CPAP machine for all,” but there are valuable support pathways.
For example, states like Queensland and Tasmania often have public hospital programs offering free or low-cost machines to eligible patients. In Victoria and New South Wales, public patients diagnosed with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may access machines through hospital respiratory clinics—but this can depend on stock, referral pathways, and waitlists.
Eligibility usually depends on:
- Clinical need (based on your sleep study results)
- Income level or concession card status
- Whether you’re a public or private patient
- Local Health District funding and availability
Tip: Even if your hospital or state doesn’t offer full funding, you may still be eligible for a discounted rate or loan unit. Ask your sleep specialist or GP to refer you to the appropriate hospital program. Or, reach out to Sove CPAP Clinic. We’re familiar with public referral pathways and can guide you through local options.
Medicare May Cover Sleep Studies and GP or Specialist Consultations
While Medicare does not cover the direct cost of purchasing a CPAP machine, it does provide essential support for the diagnostic process and consultations that lead to a treatment plan.
Medicare typically covers:
- GP visits for discussing sleep apnea symptoms
- Specialist consultations with a sleep physician (with a valid GP referral)
- In-lab sleep studies and home-based diagnostic tests, if clinically justified
Having a Medicare-funded sleep study is often the first step in accessing hospital-based CPAP support. Without this formal diagnosis, it’s difficult to receive any government-funded equipment. Once diagnosed, your specialist may recommend CPAP as the most effective therapy.
Tip: Ensure your referrals and documentation are up to date. Sove CPAP Clinic works with leading sleep specialists and can help you arrange a Medicare-funded sleep study. We can also assist with sending reports to your GP or insurance provider as needed.
Private Health Insurance Can Also Help Offset CPAP Costs
If you hold Extras cover or Hospital cover with a private health fund, you may be eligible for a rebate on the cost of your CPAP equipment. Benefits vary widely depending on the insurer, your level of cover, and whether you’ve served any waiting periods.
Extras cover may reimburse part of the cost of a CPAP machine, mask, or accessories. Hospital cover may offer funding if your sleep apnea treatment involves hospital admission (such as an in-lab sleep study). You’ll often need a formal diagnosis and itemised invoice.
Rebates usually range from $100 to $800, depending on the product and policy. It’s a good idea to contact your fund and ask:
- Is CPAP equipment covered?
- What is the rebate limit and is it annual or lifetime?
- Do I need a referral or medical certificate?
Tip: Sove CPAP Clinic provides itemised receipts with all purchases and can help guide you through the claims process. We’re happy to contact your fund on your behalf to confirm your rebate eligibility.
Sove’s Wide Range of CPAP Masks and Machines
Regardless of whether you’re funded through a hospital, claiming private health, or purchasing your own machine, choosing the right equipment makes all the difference.
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we proudly offer:
- A Lowest Price Guarantee on CPAP machines, masks, and accessories
- A wide selection of trusted brands, including ResMed, Philips, Fisher & Paykel, and Transcend
- Expert mask fittings to ensure comfort and reduce air leaks
- Ongoing support and education to maximise compliance
- Convenient CPAP machine trials if you’re still deciding what works best
We understand that cost is a major consideration, but so is value. The right mask fit, machine settings, and education can significantly improve your quality of life. That’s why we don’t just sell you a device—we partner with you on your sleep health journey.
Tip: Using your CPAP machine consistently improves sleep quality, energy levels, and overall health. Our team is here to help with mask replacements, humidifier tips, cleaning routines, and any questions that arise during therapy.
ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply.
Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine with Humidifier
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get a Free CPAP Machine in Australia?
In some states and territories, yes—though availability and eligibility vary significantly. For example, programs like EnableNSW’s Home Respiratory Program (NSW) and the Queensland Health Sleep Disorders Program provide CPAP machines to eligible patients, often on a loan basis. These programs typically prioritise individuals with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), who hold concession cards such as a Pensioner Concession Card or Health Care Card. Tasmania and some local health districts in Victoria and South Australia may also offer limited access through public hospitals.
Free machines are not guaranteed nationwide, and waitlists or supply limitations may apply. If you do not qualify for government-funded options, Sove CPAP Clinic offers competitively priced packages, interest-free payment plans, and rental options to make therapy more affordable.
Who Qualifies for a Government-Funded CPAP Machine?
Eligibility depends on your state, local health district, and clinical assessment. Generally, you must:
- Have a diagnosis of moderate to severe OSA confirmed by a sleep study.
- Hold a valid concession card (e.g., Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or DVA Gold Card).
- Be referred by a GP or sleep physician to a public hospital or respiratory clinic participating in a funding program.
- Reside in a location serviced by a participating health service (e.g., NSW Health or QLD Health).
Some programs may also require evidence of CPAP compliance during a trial phase. Sove CPAP Clinic can help determine your eligibility and liaise with health networks to access local programs.
What Forms and Documentation Are Required to Apply for Government Funding for a CPAP Machine?
To apply for a government-funded CPAP machine, you generally need:
- A comprehensive sleep study report confirming moderate to severe OSA.
- A medical referral from your GP or a sleep specialist.
- Proof of concession card eligibility (if applicable).
- Completion of application forms specific to the funding program (e.g., EnableNSW’s application form).
Additional documents, such as consent to share data and usage compliance agreements, may also be required. Sove CPAP Clinic can support you in assembling your application and provide usage data if needed for funding approval.
What Types of CPAP Accessories Are Covered by Government Funding Programs?
Government programs focus primarily on the essential components of CPAP therapy—usually the machine and one mask interface. Coverage of accessories such as tubing, filters, headgear, and humidifiers varies widely by state and program. For example:
- EnableNSW may cover replacement parts as part of ongoing support.
- Veterans’ Affairs programs may include a broader range of consumables.
- Public hospitals might provide only basic starter kits with limited follow-up accessory support.
If accessories are not covered under your funding scheme, Sove CPAP Clinic offers affordable bundles and reminders for timely replacements, helping you maintain effective and hygienic therapy.
Are There Additional Fees or Co-Payments Required from the Patient?
In many government programs, a small co-payment may apply—ranging from around $50 to $300 depending on the device and provider. Some programs offer machines on loan, meaning patients are expected to return them if they discontinue therapy.
For those who don’t qualify for free machines, subsidised pricing and partial reimbursements through private health insurance may be available. Sove CPAP Clinic is committed to providing transparent pricing and helping you access all available discounts, rebates, and alternative funding options.
Is There a Required Trial Period for CPAP Therapy Before Funding Approval?
Yes, many programs require patients to complete a trial period—typically ranging from 4 to 12 weeks—before funding is finalised. During this time, your CPAP machine will collect data such as usage hours and apnea index, which helps assess whether the therapy is beneficial and used consistently. Sove CPAP Clinic supports patients through trial programs, offering rental units, compliance coaching, and detailed reports.