Singles who earn over $77,000 per year and families with a combined income over $154,000 per year (the family threshold increases by $1,500 for each dependant child after the first), who don’t have private health insurance; pay an additional 1% tax.

This levy is in addition to the standard Medicare Levy of 1.5% of taxable income. This surcharge can be avoided if you have health insurance with hospital cover.  All Queensland Country Health hospital covers exempt policyholders from paying this additional tax.

For more information about the Medicare Levy Surcharge contact the Australian Taxation Office Helpline on 13 28 62 or the ATO website www.ato.gov.au.