A Bilirubin blood test measures the amount of bilirubin in your blood, a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. High or low levels can signal liver, gallbladder, or blood disorders, making it an important marker for overall health.

In Australia, this test is often part of routine checks when doctors investigate symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, or unexplained changes in metabolism. Monitoring bilirubin helps detect issues early, guide treatment, and track liver function over time.

This guide explains what it is, how it works, what your results mean, and how you can book a comprehensive blood test to check your Bilirubin.

What is Bilirubin?

Bilirubin is a yellow substance made when your body breaks down old red blood cells. Think of it as the “leftover paint” created after your body recycles blood. Normally, your liver processes bilirubin and sends it out through bile into your digestive system, where it eventually leaves the body.

When bilirubin builds up in the blood, it can cause jaundice — yellowing of the skin and eyes. This happens if the liver isn’t working well, if bile ducts are blocked, or if red blood cells are breaking down too quickly. Measuring bilirubin levels gives doctors a clear signal of how your liver and blood health are tracking.

Quick facts:

• Bilirubin comes from red blood cell breakdown.
• The liver helps remove it from the body.
• High levels may point to liver, gallbladder, or blood problems.

Understanding bilirubin is key because it reflects how well your body clears waste and keeps metabolism in balance.

Why is Bilirubin Important?

Bilirubin plays a key role in health, metabolism, and longevity because it reflects how well your body recycles red blood cells and removes waste, especially via the liver. When everything is working well, your body maintains bilirubin within a healthy range—if not, high bilirubin levels can signal serious issues like liver disease, gallbladder problems, or hemolytic anaemia.

On the flip side, newer research suggests moderately elevated bilirubin levels may actually offer protection against metabolic and cardiovascular diseases by acting as an antioxidant and by influencing fat and sugar metabolism.

Some stats to show how important it is:

• In Australia, extreme neonatal hyperbilirubinemia occurs in about 9.4 per 100,000 live births, underlining risks for newborns when bilirubin is very high.
• Globally, a large meta-analysis of over 132,000 people found that higher total bilirubin levels were associated with a lower risk of complications such as diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy in people with diabetes.

Understanding where your Bilirubin Blood Test results fall and what they mean gives you power: it helps detect early disease, monitor metabolic health, and guide interventions that can support long healthy living.

When should you get a Bilirubin test?

A Bilirubin blood test is often recommended when there are signs your liver, gallbladder, or blood cells may not be functioning properly. It can also be part of a broader health check. You may consider testing if:

• You notice jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• You experience persistent fatigue, abdominal pain, or dark urine.
• You have a family history of liver disease, gallstones, or blood disorders.
• You are pregnant, as doctors may check bilirubin to rule out complications.
• You have a chronic condition such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or haemolytic anaemia.
• Your GP refers you after abnormal results in other liver function tests.
• You are on long-term medication that may affect the liver and need regular monitoring.

Testing bilirubin helps identify problems early, guide treatment, and track ongoing health. It’s a simple blood test that provides important insights into your liver and metabolic function.

How does the Bilirubin test work in Australia?

A Bilirubin blood test in Australia is a straightforward procedure. A healthcare professional takes a small blood sample, usually from your arm, and sends it to a pathology lab for analysis. Results show whether your bilirubin levels are within the normal range or if further investigation is needed.

• Preparation: In most cases, no special preparation or fasting is required, though your doctor may advise fasting if the bilirubin test is part of a full liver function panel.
• Access and costs: If your GP refers you, Medicare will typically cover the test. However, without a referral, private pathology fees may apply. The Bilirubin test cost Australia can range from $30–$60 when paid out-of-pocket, depending on the clinic or lab.
• Comprehensive testing: Many Australians choose to have bilirubin checked as part of a larger health screen or comprehensive blood test panel, which assesses more than 50 markers of liver, kidney, and metabolic health. This approach gives a broader picture of how your body is functioning and whether further steps are needed.

Understanding how the test works—and the costs involved—can help you plan ahead and make informed choices about your health.

What do my Bilirubin results mean?

Your Bilirubin blood test results show how much bilirubin is in your blood, measured in micromoles per litre (µmol/L). The healthy reference range for adults is usually 3–20 µmol/L. Levels outside this range can point to different health conditions.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

If your bilirubin is slightly above normal, it may not always indicate disease—some people naturally have higher levels (such as in Gilbert’s syndrome). However, consistently high results often need further investigation with related biomarkers like liver enzymes and blood cell counts.

Always discuss your results with your GP, who can explain them in the context of your overall health.

Bilirubin in context with other tests

A Bilirubin blood test gives valuable insight, but it works best when interpreted alongside other markers. Because bilirubin reflects how your liver processes waste and how red blood cells break down, doctors often compare it with other results to get the full picture.

For example:

• Liver enzymes such as ALT, AST, and Alkaline Phosphatase help show whether high bilirubin is due to liver damage or bile duct problems.
• Complete blood count (CBC) can reveal if high bilirubin is linked to red blood cell breakdown rather than liver issues.
• Kidney and metabolic markers like Creatinine or Albumin can highlight whether bilirubin changes are part of a broader metabolic imbalance.

Looking at bilirubin on its own may miss important details. When combined with related markers, it gives a clearer view of liver function, blood health, and overall metabolism. This is why comprehensive blood panels are often recommended instead of single tests.

Lifestyle and practical steps for healthy Bilirubin levels

While bilirubin is mainly influenced by liver and blood cell function, everyday habits can also play a role in keeping levels within a healthy range. Supporting your liver through balanced nutrition, rest, and stress management can make a meaningful difference.

1. Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps your liver process bilirubin efficiently. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts may also support liver health. Limiting alcohol and processed foods reduces extra strain on the liver.
2. Hydration: Drinking enough water helps your body flush out waste products, including bilirubin, more effectively.
3. Sleep: Consistent, good-quality sleep allows your body to repair and regulate metabolic processes. Poor sleep has been linked to liver stress and inflammation.
4. Exercise: Regular physical activity improves circulation, reduces fatty build-up in the liver, and supports overall metabolism. Aim for a mix of aerobic and strength-based activities.
5. Stress management: Chronic stress can disrupt liver function and increase oxidative stress in the body. Relaxation practices like yoga, mindfulness, or deep breathing can support balance.

These steps don’t replace medical care, but they can help maintain healthy bilirubin levels and support your overall wellbeing. The best starting point is testing — once you know your levels, you can take personalised steps.

FAQs about the Bilirubin test in Australia

What is a Bilirubin blood test?

A Bilirubin blood test measures the level of bilirubin in your blood, which shows how well your liver and red blood cells are functioning. It’s often included in liver function panels.

How much does a Bilirubin test cost in Australia?

With a GP referral, Medicare usually covers the cost. Without a referral, private fees apply. The Bilirubin test cost in Australia is generally between $30 and $60.

Do I need a referral for a Bilirubin test?

Yes, most people get tested after a GP referral. This ensures Medicare coverage and helps your doctor interpret the results alongside other blood tests.

Is a Bilirubin test safe during pregnancy?

Yes, the test is safe in pregnancy. It is sometimes ordered if jaundice or liver-related complications are suspected during pregnancy.

What symptoms may lead to a Bilirubin test?

Common symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, fatigue, or abdominal pain. A doctor may also order it if other blood tests are abnormal.

What is the normal range for Bilirubin in Australia?

For adults, the typical reference range is about 3–20 µmol/L. Results outside this range may signal liver, gallbladder, or blood-related issues.

Can a Bilirubin test be part of a full health check?

Yes, it is often included in comprehensive blood panels that assess multiple markers of liver, kidney, and metabolic health.

Conclusion

Bilirubin is a natural by-product of red blood cell breakdown, processed by the liver and cleared from the body. While it may seem like a small detail in your blood, its levels can reveal a lot about your liver health, gallbladder function, and even how your metabolism is working. Too much or too little bilirubin can be an early sign of underlying conditions, from mild hereditary syndromes to more serious liver disease.

Testing bilirubin gives you more than just a number—it provides a window into how well your body manages essential processes. Knowing your levels means you can take action early, work with your doctor on the right care, and make lifestyle choices that support long-term wellbeing.

Take control of your health today. Sign up for our comprehensive blood test and get clear insights into your Bilirubin and more than 50 other key markers.

References

1. Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA). Bilirubin — RCPA Manual.
2. Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Liver function tests (PDF).
3. Pathology Tests Explained (Australia). Bilirubin.
4. Healthdirect Australia. Jaundice in adults.‍
5. Vitek L. The physiology of bilirubin: health and disease equilibrium. Front Pharmacol. 2023.