Free Healthcare Services for Bellarine Residents
Last year, we proudly opened the dedicated Children’s Emergency Department at University Hospital Geelong. This purpose-built facility features a paediatric triage system, assessment and waiting areas, and treatment rooms designed specifically for children and their families. Located just 100 metres from the main Emergency Department entrance, it’s a vital addition to our local healthcare services.
In the recently announced 2025/26 State Budget, further investments have been made to expand and strengthen urgent care services across Victoria.
These services are here to make sure Bellarine residents can access the care they need close to home, while reducing pressure off our emergency departments and paramedics. Please share with your family and friends so they too can be aware of what free healthcare options are available locally.
See the range of free healthcare resources available to Bellarine residents below:
Virtual Women's Health Clinic
Offering free specialist reproductive and sexual health care to all women and girls in Victoria.
This service is available without referral, offering video or phone appointments for services including cervical screening, sexual health, endometriosis support, pelvic pain support, menstrual health and menopause care, contraception, breast health and termination care.
Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
1300 003 224
To find out more or to book an appointment visit www.each.com.au
Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED)
The VVED offers free, online emergency care for non-life-threatening emergencies. Consultations are conducted via video and accessible from your smartphone or computer. Currently the VVED delivers care to more than 600 callers every day, and with the State Government’s recent investment, this number will nearly triple in size.
Available 24/7
www.vved.org.au
Nurse-On-Call
This free helpline will connect you with a registered nurse who can provide expert medical advice on whether to seek further medical assistance and what is available locally.
Available 24/7
1300 60 60 24
Find out more here
Urgent Care Clinic
Urgent Care Clinics provide GP-led care for conditions that require urgent care but aren’t emergencies such as mild infections, burns, sprains, or suspected fractures. Many clinics also offer onsite or nearby pathology and imaging services. The closest clinic for the Bellarine is in Belmont.
Open daily: 7.30am-9.30pm
75 Roslyn Road Belmont
03 4206 7366
Find out more here
Community Pharmacy Program
The Community Pharmacy Program started as a pilot program with pharmacists delivering free consultations for uncomplicated UTIs, resupply of some oral contractive pills, mild skin conditions and travel vaccinations at select pharmacies.
As part of the recent 2025/26 Budget this program will expand and become permanent from 1 July 2025. Over the next two years, additional common health conditions will be introduced into the program including nausea, minor wound management, allergies, reflux and school sores.
Most consultations will remain free for patients, helping local residents access the care they need here on the Bellarine without the cost of GP or consultation fees.
It’s important to note, that this program does require pharmacists to undertake additional training to participate in the program. It can be best to call a listed pharmacy ahead of visiting to ensure a trained pharmacist is on duty to assist you.
Find out what local pharmacies are involved in the program at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/community-pharmacy-pilot
1800 My Options
A free and confidential service offering advice and referrals for contraception, pregnancy options including abortion services, and sexual health.
1800 696 784
Available: 9am-5pm Monday to Friday
www.1800myoptions.org.au
The Orange Door
A free service that coordinates family violence and child wellbeing support without needing a referral.
1800 312 820
Available 9am-5pm Monday to Friday
www.orangedoor.vic.gov.au
