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If you’ve been asked to provide your Medicare Individual Reference Number, here’s how to find it on your card.

Take a look at your card. Your Individual Reference Number (IRN or ‘Medicare reference number’) is the number to the left of your name on the card.

When you provide your IRN, ensure that you give the number alongside your name and not the last digit of your Medicare number.

An example of a standard Medicare card from the Australian Government.

An example of a standard Medicare card from the Australian Government.

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What’s the difference between my Individual Reference Number and my Medicare Card Number?

While your Individual Reference Number is the number to the left of your name on your card, your Medicare Card Number is the 10 digit number that appears above your name, across the top section of the card.

When providing your number, you must include the last digit.

A Medicare card showing family names and Individual Reference Numbers under a single number.

A Medicare card showing family names and Individual Reference Numbers under a single number.

How do I get a Medicare card?

Medicare is a scheme that gives Australian residents access to healthcare. When you enrol, you’ll be given a Medicare card. For more information on accessing Medicare, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Human Services website.

How do I replace my lost or stolen card?

You can replace your card if it expires, is lost, stolen or damaged. You can also get an extra card. Request a new card by using your online account through myGov or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app or calling the program on 132 011.

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How do I use the card to prove my identity?

When you complete a Renter Resume or rental application, you will be prompted to upload or provide documents that support personal details, including your:

  • given name;
  • middle name (if applicable);
  • family name; and
  • date of birth.

In Australia, supporting documents used to verify your identity are categorised as either primary or secondary.

In most cases, a real estate agent will be looking for 100 points of Australian or state-issued documentation to prove your identity. Different types of identity documents are worth different points.

You can use a different combination of documents to make up your 100 points, but you must include at least one primary document as part of your 100 points.

Your Medicare card is worth 40 points of identification.

Primary documentsPoints
Birth certificate50
Driver licence60
Passport50
Secondary documentsPoints
Certificate of Australian citizenship40
Change of name certificate40
Australian visa40
Marriage certificate40
Medicare card40

Need help using rent.com.au? Our Customer Care team is available on 1300 736 810, on Live Chat or email.

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