Updated 2026-04-03

PBS weight loss medication in 2026

Currently, no weight loss medications are PBS-subsidised specifically for weight management in Australia. But that's about to change — Wegovy's PBS listing was recommended by PBAC in January 2026.

Current PBS status

MedicationPBS status for weight lossNotes
WegovyPendingPBAC recommended Jan 2026. Price negotiations underway.
OzempicDiabetes onlyPBS listed for type 2 diabetes (~$41/script). Not for weight loss.
MounjaroNoNo PBS listing for weight management.
DuromineNoNot PBS listed.
ContraveNoNot PBS listed.
XenicalNoAvailable OTC at 60mg.

Wegovy PBS listing — what we know

In January 2026, the PBAC recommended Wegovy for PBS listing. If approved and priced, eligible patients would pay approximately $31.60 per script ($7.70 with a concession card) instead of $400–460 per month.

Who would qualify?

The recommended PBS criteria are narrow:

  • Adults with BMI ≥35 kg/m² (or ≥32.5 for Asian, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander populations)
  • AND established cardiovascular disease — specifically prior heart attack, stroke, or symptomatic peripheral arterial disease

This means most people using Wegovy purely for weight management would not qualify for PBS pricing initially. The criteria may broaden over time.

When will it be listed?

No confirmed date. Price negotiations between the government and Novo Nordisk are underway. This page will be updated as soon as any announcement is made.

What about other medications?

There is no indication that Mounjaro, Duromine, Contrave, or Xenical will be PBS-listed for weight management in the near future. Advocacy groups continue to push for broader subsidies, but the estimated cost to the government of subsidising GLP-1 medications for obesity is over $1 billion annually.

What can you do now?

  • If you have type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is already PBS-subsidised
  • If you meet the Wegovy PBS criteria (BMI ≥35 + CVD), discuss with your doctor — listing could happen in 2026
  • Check if your private health insurance offers any rebates on consultation fees
  • Compare telehealth providers to find the most affordable option for private prescriptions

Compare provider pricing →

Ask our AI advisor