Best health insurance in Australia in 2025
- Excellent overall benefit limits across services
- Transparent pricing with no unexpected fees
- Well-suited for families with dependents
- Includes comprehensive access gap cover
- High levels of member satisfaction and trust
- Excellent overall benefit limits across services
- Transparent pricing with no unexpected fees
- Well-suited for families with dependents
- Includes comprehensive access gap cover
- High levels of member satisfaction and trust
CBHS Health Fund offers one of the most comprehensive and generous health insurance options in the Australian market, particularly praised for its high annual limits, unlimited preventive dental, and robust hospital coverage under the Gold classification. The plan ensures extensive reimbursement rates across all major health needs, including physiotherapy, psychology, dental surgery, and optical services. Medications not listed under PBS are covered up to $1,000 per year, and hospital stays are fully reimbursed with access to the Access Gap Cover scheme to minimise out-of-pocket expenses. Carency periods are standard (2 months for general services, 12 months for orthodontics and major dental). This plan aligns perfectly with Australian healthcare practices where supplementary insurance significantly enhances access to private care, avoiding public waitlists.
This offer is ideal for families, individuals with ongoing healthcare needs, and those who seek broad, worry-free coverage across all life stages.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of CBHS Health Fund.
- Strong optical and hearing device support
- High preventive dental and extras benefits
- Full Gold-tier hospital coverage with Access Gap scheme
- Exceptional annual reimbursement limits
- Premium level slightly higher than entry-level options
- Longer waiting periods for major dental and orthodontic
- Specifically designed for education professionals
- High health aid benefits
- Minimal out-of-pocket expenses
- Well-regarded with a strong industry reputation
- Membership limited to education sector professionals
- Specifically designed for education professionals
- High health aid benefits
- Minimal out-of-pocket expenses
- Well-regarded with a strong industry reputation
Teachers Health positions itself as a strong, sector-focused fund offering complete Gold hospital cover and a wide range of extras with significant annual limits, especially in dental and health programs. Preventive and major dental care are well reimbursed, with orthodontics up to a lifetime limit of $2,500. The extras cover extensive physiotherapy, psychology, podiatry, and optical needs. Pharmaceuticals are reimbursed up to $800 per year outside of PBS coverage. With standard waiting periods (2 months general, 12 months maternity and pre-existing), this plan particularly fits into the needs of Australian education sector workers who value both financial protection and additional health support services.
This offer is best suited for teachers, education staff, and their families seeking an all-in-one, affordable, and generous private health insurance solution.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of Teachers Health.
- Competitive cover focused on the education sector
- Strong preventive and extras reimbursements
- High satisfaction rates among members
- Low out-of-pocket for hospitalisation
- Reserved for education sector workers and their families
- Dental benefits increase progressively over several years
- Leading choice among WA residents
- Generous rebate structures
- Great value for fitness-related benefits
- Excellent range of hospital coverage
- Limited availability on the East Coast
- Leading choice among WA residents
- Generous rebate structures
- Great value for fitness-related benefits
- Excellent range of hospital coverage
HBF’s Gold Hospital Elevate plan combined with their Extras 75% option delivers strong value, especially for Western Australian residents. It offers comprehensive Gold hospital coverage with the choice of a manageable excess, ensuring minimal hospital out-of-pocket expenses. Extras benefits cover a wide range of services such as dental, physiotherapy, and optical, reimbursed at 75% up to defined limits. Medications not listed under PBS are included, and the plan encourages a proactive health approach with lifestyle and fitness programs. Standard waiting periods apply, including 12 months for pre-existing conditions and major dental. HBF leverages its not-for-profit status to redistribute benefits effectively to its members, consistent with Australian expectations for fair private health support.
This plan is ideal for families, couples, and individuals living in Western Australia who seek strong hospital and extras coverage with generous rebates.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of HBF.
- Solid Extras cover across dental, optical, and allied health
- Good regional network support
- No hidden costs in hospital coverage
- High return to members via benefits
- Limited presence outside Western Australia
- Extras limits slightly lower compared to some competitors
- Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund
- Broad service and provider access
- Strong commitment to mental health support
- Emphasis on preventative healthcare
- Premiums tend to be slightly above average
- Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund
- Broad service and provider access
- Strong commitment to mental health support
- Emphasis on preventative healthcare
HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, offers a well-balanced Gold-tier hospital cover combined with Premium Extras, delivering extensive coverage across dental, allied health, and hospital services. Members benefit from solid reimbursements for physiotherapy, psychology, podiatry, and major dental procedures, with particularly strong mental health support. Pharmaceutical reimbursements are capped at $280 per year, which is slightly lower compared to top competitors. Hospital care is comprehensive, covering all services listed under Medicare without restrictions. Waiting periods are standard across the plan (2 months general, 12 months for maternity and major conditions). This structure fits seamlessly into the Australian private healthcare system, offering faster treatment access and broader choice of hospitals.
Perfect for singles, couples, and families seeking full hospital coverage with robust extras, especially those valuing mental health and preventive care.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of HCF.
- Strong mental health and preventive services focus
- Comprehensive Gold hospital coverage
- High annual limits for key allied health services
- Broad network of hospitals and specialists
- Pharmaceutical coverage could be higher
- Premiums slightly above average for comprehensive extras
- Extensive global network of hospitals and providers
- Wide-reaching hospital access within Australia
- Strong online and digital service offerings
- Higher premiums than competitors
- Complex plan structures may confuse new users
- Extensive global network of hospitals and providers
- Wide-reaching hospital access within Australia
- Strong online and digital service offerings
Bupa Australia’s Gold Hospital + Top Extras 90 plan combines extensive hospital coverage with generous extras benefits, including major dental, physiotherapy, and optical services. It offers one of the largest networks of hospitals and healthcare providers in Australia. Reimbursements are substantial for most services, although the complexity of Bupa’s product range can sometimes make plan selection challenging. Extras also include strong digital health services support. Waiting periods are standard, with 12 months for major dental, maternity, and pre-existing conditions. The plan fits very well within the Australian system for users who prioritise flexibility, innovation, and broad provider access.
Designed for individuals and families who want broad access to private healthcare facilities, strong digital tools, and comprehensive service flexibility.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of Bupa Australia.
- Extensive hospital and provider network
- Strong digital health and support services
- Generous dental, optical, and physiotherapy coverage
- Recognisable brand with international backing
- Higher premiums compared to some competitors
- Plan structure can be complex to navigate
- Tailored to current and former defence community members
- Comprehensive hospital coverage
- Excellent value on extras packages
- Membership restricted to defence community
- Highly loyal base but may not suit the general public
- Tailored to current and former defence community members
- Comprehensive hospital coverage
- Excellent value on extras packages
Defence Health targets a specific community — Defence members and their families — offering strong Gold hospital coverage and Premier Extras with solid reimbursements for dental, allied health, and medication needs. Hospital stays are fully covered, including maternity, orthopaedics, and oncology services. Extras like physiotherapy, podiatry, and optical are well-supported, with generous annual limits. Pharmaceutical reimbursement is solid at $500 per year. Waiting periods align with market standards. The fund is highly rated for its personal service and value return, positioning itself as a trusted partner for Australian Defence families.
Ideal for Defence community members, including ADF personnel and their families, seeking a complete and trusted private health solution.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of Defence Health.
- Tailored benefits for the Defence community
- Strong dental and optical extras
- Competitive premiums for high-value coverage
- Trusted long-term reputation among Defence families
- Eligibility restricted to Defence-related members
- Some extras require careful management of annual limits
- Strong presence in regional areas
- Solid dental and optical benefits
- Family-friendly plans with attractive inclusions
- Annual benefit caps on some services
- Regional focus may limit appeal in urban areas
- Strong presence in regional areas
- Solid dental and optical benefits
- Family-friendly plans with attractive inclusions
GMHBA offers a strong, regionally focused Gold hospital cover paired with Top Extras 75%, featuring comprehensive dental, optical, and physiotherapy support. Members enjoy 75% reimbursement across most services, up to defined caps. Hospitalisation includes full Gold cover, ensuring access to a wide range of treatments with minimal out-of-pocket costs. Pharmacy coverage under extras is limited to $350 annually. GMHBA stands out for offering solid family coverage and good fitness program support but remains slightly less competitive on extras limits compared to the largest players. Its approach suits Australians looking for straightforward, reliable health insurance primarily outside major cities.
Best for regional families and individuals seeking strong hospital and reasonable extras coverage at a fair price.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of GMHBA.
- Good dental and optical extras at 75% cover
- Full Gold hospital access
- Family-friendly with fitness and health programs
- Transparent coverage and costs
- Some annual extras caps are lower than major competitors
- Regional focus may not suit big city dwellers
- Flexible extras packages to suit different needs
- Strong digital health and telehealth offerings
- Good cover for vaccinations and optical services
- Standard waiting periods apply
- Network is still expanding in some areas
- Flexible extras packages to suit different needs
- Strong digital health and telehealth offerings
- Good cover for vaccinations and optical services
Australian Unity’s Complete Hospital Gold paired with Top Extras Boost offers strong flexibility and competitive coverage across essential services. It features full Gold-tier hospital care and solid extras including dental, optical, and health programs. Preventive dental services are supported through a “No-Gap” network. Non-PBS medications are reimbursed up to $500 annually. Hospital cover is robust with optional co-payment reductions. Waiting periods are slightly longer for some services (e.g., orthodontics). The insurer focuses on personalised health journeys and digital engagement, making it an appealing choice for tech-savvy users valuing freedom of choice.
Well-suited for independent workers, tech-savvy families, and individuals wanting personalised healthcare experiences with a balance of flexibility and protection.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of Australian Unity.
- Flexible extras structure
- Full Gold hospital with optional excesses
- Digital health focus and support tools
- Good optical and dental cover
- Slightly longer waiting periods for complex services
- Smaller hospital partner network compared to top 3 players
- Strong value for young adults and singles
- Excellent mobile and online experience
- Digital-first approach to services
- Limited cover outside of provider network
- Extras quality can vary by plan
- Strong value for young adults and singles
- Excellent mobile and online experience
- Digital-first approach to services
nib’s Top Hospital + Top Extras plan provides affordable access to private hospital care and extras through its First Choice Provider Network. The plan covers standard Gold hospital services but advises using contracted providers to avoid large out-of-pocket costs. Extras include physiotherapy, optical, and podiatry services, with moderate annual limits. Medications outside the PBS are partly reimbursed under extras. The plan is tailored for young and digitally engaged Australians but requires careful navigation of provider networks to optimise benefits. Waiting periods align with national standards.
Ideal for young adults, couples, and digitally minded individuals looking for flexible yet affordable health cover.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance of nib Health Funds.
- Competitive pricing
- Strong digital management tools
- Wide availability of First Choice providers
- Good base hospital cover
- Large out-of-pocket costs outside network
- Extras benefits vary significantly between tiers
- Low-cost option ideal for young or low-use members
- Covers accidents only, no general hospital cover
- Limited access to services, best for occasional needs
- Does not include extras
- Low-cost option ideal for young or low-use members
Medibank’s Basic Plus Healthy Start focuses on offering affordable, entry-level hospital cover with a strong emphasis on accident care and basic surgeries. It includes full ambulance coverage and accident-related hospital admissions. However, major services like maternity, psychiatric care, or major surgeries are either restricted or not covered. Extras are not included unless selected separately, and pharmaceutical coverage is only provided during hospitalisation under PBS. This product suits those seeking essential, minimal health coverage at a lower price, fitting into Australia’s Medicare+private top-up model for accidents.
Best for young, healthy individuals needing minimal cover, mainly protection against accidents and emergencies.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance of Medibank Basic Plus Healthy Start.
- Very affordable hospital-only entry price
- Strong accident cover boost
- Full ambulance coverage included
- Easy upgrade pathways available
- No Extras included by default
- Many hospital services restricted or excluded
- How health insurance works in Australia
- What does health insurance cover?
- What health insurance Does Not Cover
- The cost of health insurance in Australia
- How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Did you know that a single stay in a private hospital room in Australia can cost upwards of $3,000 per night, with many services not fully covered by Medicare?
Australians face frequent risks from unexpected surgeries, specialist visits, and extras like dental or optical care—many of which receive limited or no rebate through the public Medicare system. Gaps in hospital, pharmacy, or ambulance costs can come as a shock, and not all treatments or hospital choices are available without significant out-of-pocket spending. Comparing health insurance policies makes a real difference, ensuring better financial protection, wider choice, and faster access to quality care tailored to your family's needs.
HelloSafe leverages deep expertise and complete market independence to help you compare policies transparently—empowering you to choose wisely and confidently for your health and budget.
How health insurance works in Australia
Australia’s public healthcare system, Medicare, guarantees access to essential medical services and hospital treatment in public facilities.
However, Medicare does not cover private hospital stays, most dental, optical, or physiotherapy care, or offer much choice of doctor or timing for non-urgent treatment.
Private health insurance provides quicker access to elective surgeries, a wider choice of specialists and hospitals, higher reimbursement levels on extras like dental or physio, and even coverage when travelling or living abroad.
With a private plan, you gain more control over your healthcare experience and avoid long public waiting times for important procedures.
What does health insurance cover?
Health insurance in Australia typically offers two core components: hospital cover for inpatient treatment in private or public hospitals, and extras cover for services like dentistry, optical, physiotherapy, and allied health that are not fully supported by Medicare.
Basic cover usually includes treatments while you are admitted to hospital, covering accommodation, theatre fees, and emergency ambulance, while optional extras like dental, optical, maternity, or mental health can be added for broader protection.
Reimbursements are made either by paying the provider directly or by reimbursing you after you claim, with some policies having deductibles (called excess) or waiting periods for new or upgraded coverage, especially on extras and pre-existing conditions.
The local public system, Medicare, provides free or subsidised treatment in public hospitals and for GP visits, but lacks support for private hospital stays, dental, optical, and some rehabilitative or alternative therapies.
Private health insurance bridges these gaps, enabling higher reimbursement rates and faster access for a wide range of health needs outside Medicare's scope.
| Type of cover | Reimbursement by Medicare | Coverage with basic private insurance | Coverage with premium private insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💊 General care | 85%-100% (Medicare Benefits Schedule) | Yes | Yes |
| 🏥 Hospitalisation | 100% (public hospitals, shared room) | Partially (private hospital, shared room) | Yes (private hospital, private room) |
| 🦷 Dental | Not covered | Optional | Yes (higher annual limit) |
| 👓 Optical | Not covered | Optional | Yes (higher limit, includes contacts, glasses) |
| 🍼 Maternity | 100% (public hospital, limited options) | No/Optional | Yes (private hospital, choice of obstetrician) |
| 🌿 Alternative medicine | Not covered | Optional | Yes (broader range & higher limits) |
| 🛡️ Preventive care | 100% for some screenings, otherwise not covered | Yes (e.g. health checks) | Yes (comprehensive, wellness extras) |
| 🧠 Psychological care | Partially (capped sessions through Medicare) | Optional | Yes (higher annual limit) |
| 👂 Hearing aids | Not covered (except eligible children) | Optional | Yes (higher limit) |
| 💧 Thermal spa treatments | Not covered | No | No |
| Medical equipment and devices | Partially (Medicare covers some items) | Optional | Yes (wider range, higher annual cap) |
| 🧘 Non-covered alternative treatments | Not covered | Optional | Yes (e.g. osteopathy, acupuncture) |
| ✈️ Medical assistance abroad | Not covered | Optional | Yes (higher level, repatriation) |
| 📞 Teleconsultation | 100% (temporary during some periods) | Yes | Yes |
What health insurance Does Not Cover
Most health insurance policies in Australia do not cover pre-existing conditions for a set waiting period, which can be up to 12 months for hospital treatment.
Cosmetic and elective procedures, such as plastic surgery without a medical reason, are generally excluded.
Experimental or non-approved treatments are not reimbursed.
Other exclusions include services provided outside Australia, expenses already covered by Medicare, or care obtained without proper referrals.
Benefit limits and waiting periods commonly apply, especially to extras like dental, major surgery, or pregnancy-related care.
| Exclusion type | Example | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Medical | Cosmetic surgery, experimental therapies, pre-existing conditions within waiting period | Cosmetic and elective treatments are rarely covered; waiting periods may apply for pre-existing issues. |
| Administrative | Treatments without GP referral, care from unregistered providers, incomplete claims | Always use approved providers and ensure all paperwork is correctly filed. |
| Legal | Services received overseas, illegal procedures, fraudulent claims | Only treatments in Australia are covered; honest disclosure is essential. |
| Coverage limits | Exceeding annual dental or physio limits, claiming before waiting period ends | Claims above set policy caps or before your waiting period are not reimbursed. |
The cost of health insurance in Australia
The price of health insurance in Australia is influenced by your age, medical history, level of cover, chosen deductible (known as excess), and the number of people included in the policy.
Older individuals pay higher premiums due to increased health risks, and family or couple policies are more expensive than single plans.
Comprehensive policies that offer more benefits or extras, such as dental or maternity, cost more than basic hospital-only cover.
Premiums usually increase over time due to medical inflation, rising healthcare costs, your age, and any recent claims or change in your health status.
Reviewing your cover regularly can help keep premiums manageable and ensure appropriate protection for your needs.
| Age group | Cover type | Monthly premium (basic) | Monthly premium (premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | Single | AU$105 | AU$220 |
| 45 | Single | AU$137 | AU$288 |
| 65 | Single | AU$230 | AU$390 |
| 25 | Couple | AU$210 | AU$395 |
| 45 | Couple | AU$275 | AU$515 |
| 65 | Couple | AU$460 | AU$700 |
How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Compare offers | Use the HelloSafe comparison tool at the top of the page to easily identify the cheapest coverage that fits your needs. |
| Increase your excess | Opting for a higher excess (deductible) reduces your monthly premiums, as you pay more out-of-pocket if you require hospital care. |
| Exclude unnecessary extras | Remove or avoid extras you don’t need, such as maternity or orthodontics, to keep your premium low and only pay for relevant care. |
| Pay annually instead of monthly | Some insurers offer discounts if you pay a full year’s premium upfront instead of in instalments, helping you save money. |
| Review your plan regularly | Check each year if your policy still fits your needs and switch if you find a more cost-effective option after life changes. |
| Take advantage of discounts | Look for special deals like family or corporate discounts, or reduced premiums for healthy lifestyle choices. |
| Choose a policy with restricted hospital cover | Limiting your cover to specific types of hospital services can significantly lower your premium if you only need basic protection. |
| Avoid duplicate cover with Medicare | Make sure you don’t double up on coverage for services already provided by Medicare to prevent paying unnecessary premiums. |
FAQ
Is private health insurance mandatory in Australia?
No, private health insurance is not mandatory in Australia. However, some people may choose it to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge, reduce hospital waiting times, or access extra services not covered by Medicare. Participation is voluntary for all residents.
What does Medicare cover in Australia?
Medicare provides free or subsidised treatment in public hospitals, covering essential medical care and procedures. It also pays for visits to general practitioners and specialists, but generally does not cover dental, optical, or many allied health services.
Are there waiting periods for health insurance benefits?
Yes, most private health insurance policies have waiting periods, especially for pre-existing conditions, pregnancy, and extras cover. These can range from two months for general hospital treatment to twelve months for pregnancy or pre-existing health issues.
Can I switch my health insurance provider easily?
You can switch health insurance providers at any time in Australia, and your new insurer must recognise waiting periods already served for comparable cover. It’s important to compare benefits and costs to ensure you’re getting the right protection for your needs.
How does the Lifetime Health Cover loading work?
If you don't take out private hospital insurance before 1 July after turning 31, you may pay extra (called Lifetime Health Cover loading) on your premiums when you eventually join. The extra cost increases for every year you postpone taking out cover after this deadline.
What is the Medicare Levy Surcharge and who has to pay it?
The Medicare Levy Surcharge is an additional tax for Australians who earn above a certain income threshold and do not hold private hospital cover. This encourages higher earners to take out private insurance and helps support the public health system.
Can overseas visitors get health insurance in Australia?
Yes, many private insurers offer tailored health insurance products for overseas visitors and students. These policies are designed to meet visa requirements and include hospital and extras cover suited for temporary stays in Australia.
Is private health insurance mandatory in Australia?
No, private health insurance is not mandatory in Australia. However, some people may choose it to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge, reduce hospital waiting times, or access extra services not covered by Medicare. Participation is voluntary for all residents.
What does Medicare cover in Australia?
Medicare provides free or subsidised treatment in public hospitals, covering essential medical care and procedures. It also pays for visits to general practitioners and specialists, but generally does not cover dental, optical, or many allied health services.
Are there waiting periods for health insurance benefits?
Yes, most private health insurance policies have waiting periods, especially for pre-existing conditions, pregnancy, and extras cover. These can range from two months for general hospital treatment to twelve months for pregnancy or pre-existing health issues.
Can I switch my health insurance provider easily?
You can switch health insurance providers at any time in Australia, and your new insurer must recognise waiting periods already served for comparable cover. It’s important to compare benefits and costs to ensure you’re getting the right protection for your needs.
How does the Lifetime Health Cover loading work?
If you don't take out private hospital insurance before 1 July after turning 31, you may pay extra (called Lifetime Health Cover loading) on your premiums when you eventually join. The extra cost increases for every year you postpone taking out cover after this deadline.
What is the Medicare Levy Surcharge and who has to pay it?
The Medicare Levy Surcharge is an additional tax for Australians who earn above a certain income threshold and do not hold private hospital cover. This encourages higher earners to take out private insurance and helps support the public health system.
Can overseas visitors get health insurance in Australia?
Yes, many private insurers offer tailored health insurance products for overseas visitors and students. These policies are designed to meet visa requirements and include hospital and extras cover suited for temporary stays in Australia.
On the same topic
