How to get hair transplant subsidies in Australia
Hair loss can have a major impact on confidence and mental well-being. In Australia, some people consider using their superannuation (super) — the retirement savings system — to cover the cost of a hair transplant. While super is normally preserved until retirement, there are limited circumstances where you may be able to access it early for medical reasons. Some state governments also offer government subsidies; Here’s what you need to know.
🩺 1. What are some ways to reduce your hair transplant costs?
Government subsidies and support
In Victoria, if you have alopecia or need to wear a wig because of other medical conditions, you are entitled to a subsidy under the Victorian Aids & Equipment program.
You can claim $240 in Victoria through A&EP every 2 years if you’re over 16 yrs. If you’re under 16 years, you can claim $600.
When You Can Access Super for Medical Treatments
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows early access to superannuation on compassionate grounds if you need money to pay for medical treatment that is:
- Necessary to treat a life-threatening illness or acute/chronic pain, or
- Needed to treat a mental illness.
Hair transplant surgery is not usually considered life-saving, but it may qualify if your doctor can demonstrate that hair loss causes severe psychological distress or is part of a medical condition (for example, alopecia or trauma-related hair loss).
For example, HAIR DOCTORS Clinic can support you to use your pension to finance your hair transplant, you do not need to pay upfront fees, do not need a loan, and covers travel and hotels as well as all post-operative packages.
🧾 2. Eligibility Requirements
To apply for early release of your super for a hair transplant, you must:
- Provide medical evidence — A report from your GP and a specialist confirming the medical necessity of the treatment.
- Show that you can’t afford the procedure without using your super.
- Submit an application through the ATO portal (via myGov).
If approved, the ATO will instruct your super fund to release the required amount directly to you or to the clinic performing the procedure.
💰 3. Typical Costs and Super Use
In Australia, hair transplant surgery typically costs between AUD 4,000 and AUD 15,000, depending on:
- The size of the area treated
- The number of grafts required
- The surgeon’s experience and clinic location
If approved, your super funds can be used to cover all or part of these costs, including pre-surgery consultations and follow-up care.
🧠 4. Mental Health Considerations
The emotional impact of hair loss can be significant. If your GP or psychologist diagnoses severe psychological distress related to your condition, this may support your application for early super release. The ATO reviews each case individually, so detailed medical documentation is key.
🏥 5. How to Apply Step by Step
- Consult your GP and specialist for medical reports.
- Obtain quotes from a licensed hair restoration clinic.
- Prepare documents showing financial hardship and medical necessity.
- Apply online through [myGov] → ATO → “Early release of super on compassionate grounds.”
- Wait for ATO approval before scheduling your procedure.
⚠️ 6. Important Notes
- Not all super funds support early release, so check with yours first.
- Super released early reduces your retirement savings.
- The procedure must be medically justified, not purely cosmetic.
✅ Example Case: Michael’s Story
Michael, a 42-year-old man from Melbourne, had been struggling with severe hair loss due to alopecia areata for nearly a decade. His condition had deeply affected his confidence, leading to social withdrawal and mild depression. After several consultations, both his GP and dermatologist confirmed that the hair loss was causing significant psychological distress.
Based on their reports, Michael applied for early release of $7,800 from his superannuation to fund a medically recommended hair transplant procedure. The ATO approved his request under compassionate grounds.
A few months later, Michael underwent the surgery at a certified clinic. The procedure went smoothly, and after a few weeks of recovery, he began noticing new hair growth along his hairline. His friends and colleagues immediately saw the difference—not just in his appearance, but in his energy and mood.
He now starts each day with a smile, styles his hair confidently before work, and no longer avoids mirrors or social gatherings. Michael says, “It’s not just about the hair. It’s about getting a part of myself back. Using my super was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my mental health.”
🌿 Final Thoughts
While using your superannuation for a hair transplant in Australia is not common, it can be possible under compassionate grounds if the treatment is deemed medically necessary. Always seek advice from your doctor, financial adviser, and the ATO before applying, to ensure you understand both the medical and financial implications.