Is Bupa Health Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025
Our expert's opinion on Bupa
ScoreBupa stands out in the Australian health insurance market with a comprehensive range of health cover options, from basic hospital only to comprehensive hospital and extras packages. Benefits for extras, such as dental and optical, reach up to 100% with generous annual limits: for example, major dental up to $1,200 and extras limits up to $5,000 on premium plans. Bupa applies a choice of excess (from $0 to $750), allowing members some flexibility, while their Wellbeing Bonus offers up to $200 for preventive health services annually. Relative to competitors like Medibank and HCF, Bupa is slightly above average in terms of premium price, but compensates with extensive hospital networks and exclusive member perks. Its product range is especially suited for families and individuals seeking substantial extras cover and value-added wellness programs. Bupa Australia is backed by an international not-for-profit group, reporting AU$7.8 billion in revenue and AU$6 billion net earned premium in 2023, reflecting excellent stability and solvency. With a Trustpilot score of 3.5/5 from over 5,000 reviews, Bupa is seen as a reliable insurer, and typical claims are processed within 2 to 5 working days, underscoring responsiveness and operational efficiency.
- ✅Very broad network of hospitals and specialists
- ✅Flexible excess options from $0 to $750
- ✅Extras cover limits up to $5,000 per year
- ✅Wellbeing Bonus up to $200 annually
- ✅Comprehensive dental and optical benefits
- ✅Strong financial stability and group backing
- ✅Fast claims turnaround: 2–5 working days
- ❌Premiums slightly higher than some peers
- ❌Standard waiting periods for major services
- ❌Trustpilot score average (3.5/5)
- ❌Some extras caps lower on entry-level plans
- ❌Customer support not 24/7
- ✅Very broad network of hospitals and specialists
- ✅Flexible excess options from $0 to $750
- ✅Extras cover limits up to $5,000 per year
- ✅Wellbeing Bonus up to $200 annually
- ✅Comprehensive dental and optical benefits
- ✅Strong financial stability and group backing
- ✅Fast claims turnaround: 2–5 working days
Our expert's opinion on Bupa
ScoreBupa stands out in the Australian health insurance market with a comprehensive range of health cover options, from basic hospital only to comprehensive hospital and extras packages. Benefits for extras, such as dental and optical, reach up to 100% with generous annual limits: for example, major dental up to $1,200 and extras limits up to $5,000 on premium plans. Bupa applies a choice of excess (from $0 to $750), allowing members some flexibility, while their Wellbeing Bonus offers up to $200 for preventive health services annually. Relative to competitors like Medibank and HCF, Bupa is slightly above average in terms of premium price, but compensates with extensive hospital networks and exclusive member perks. Its product range is especially suited for families and individuals seeking substantial extras cover and value-added wellness programs. Bupa Australia is backed by an international not-for-profit group, reporting AU$7.8 billion in revenue and AU$6 billion net earned premium in 2023, reflecting excellent stability and solvency. With a Trustpilot score of 3.5/5 from over 5,000 reviews, Bupa is seen as a reliable insurer, and typical claims are processed within 2 to 5 working days, underscoring responsiveness and operational efficiency.
- ✅Very broad network of hospitals and specialists
- ✅Flexible excess options from $0 to $750
- ✅Extras cover limits up to $5,000 per year
- ✅Wellbeing Bonus up to $200 annually
- ✅Comprehensive dental and optical benefits
- ✅Strong financial stability and group backing
- ✅Fast claims turnaround: 2–5 working days
- ❌Premiums slightly higher than some peers
- ❌Standard waiting periods for major services
- ❌Trustpilot score average (3.5/5)
- ❌Some extras caps lower on entry-level plans
- ❌Customer support not 24/7
- ✅Very broad network of hospitals and specialists
- ✅Flexible excess options from $0 to $750
- ✅Extras cover limits up to $5,000 per year
- ✅Wellbeing Bonus up to $200 annually
- ✅Comprehensive dental and optical benefits
- ✅Strong financial stability and group backing
- ✅Fast claims turnaround: 2–5 working days
- What does Bupa health insurance cover?
- What is the price of Bupa health insurance in 2025?
- Is Bupa health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
- Main benefits covered by the Bupa plan
- Does Bupa health insurance cover seniors?
- How does reimbursement with Bupa work?
- How to contact the health insurance Bupa?
- Bupa promo codes
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
Why trust HelloSafe? HelloSafe is an international health insurance expert, assisting thousands of Australians every month in making the right coverage choices. Our specialists have reviewed offers from over 20 insurers in Australia, carefully analysing benefits, pricing, and quality of service.
What does Bupa health insurance cover?
Bupa offers a wide range of health cover plans in Australia, from Basic to Comprehensive, tailored for various needs and budgets. Entry-level policies focus mainly on essentials with lower premiums and higher excess, while mid and top-tier plans cover major hospital treatments, extras (dental, optical), and often preventative care. Bupa stands out with flexible feature combinations and strong preventative benefits, although some high-cost dental or optical treatments may have annual limits or waiting periods. Compared to other funds, Bupa’s extras are robust but there are exclusions for pre-existing conditions and certain elective procedures.
Important information
For you to easily compare and make your choice, we've added a column showing what the public health system covers.
Routine medical care
| Guarantee | Medicare | Essential Cover | Mid Hospital & Extras | Top Hospital & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription medications | Subsidised (PBS) Co-payment required Annual safety net | 70% reimbursement Excess: $20 Limit: $1,200/year | 80% reimbursement Excess: $15 Limit: $2,500/year | 90% reimbursement Excess: $10 Limit: $4,000/year |
| Hospitalisation | 100% Public ward (shared room) Unlimited days | 85% reimbursement Shared room Up to 60 days/year | 100% reimbursement Shared/private room Up to 180 days/year | 100% reimbursement Private room Unlimited days |
| Ambulance transport | Par default (free in most states/territories, varies) | 100% reimbursement Limit: $3,000/year | 100% reimbursement Limit: $5,000/year | 100% reimbursement Limit: $10,000/year |
| Home care services | Not covered (some funding via My Aged Care/NDIS) | 50% reimbursement Limit: $1,500/year | 70% reimbursement Limit: $3,000/year | 90% reimbursement Limit: $6,000/year |
| Laboratory tests | Covered in full in public facilities Bulk billed | 80% reimbursement Limit: $250/year | 90% reimbursement Limit: $500/year | 100% reimbursement Limit: $1,000/year |
Co-payment required
Annual safety net
Excess: $20
Limit: $1,200/year
Excess: $15
Limit: $2,500/year
Excess: $10
Limit: $4,000/year
Public ward (shared room)
Unlimited days
Shared room
Up to 60 days/year
Shared/private room
Up to 180 days/year
Private room
Unlimited days
Limit: $3,000/year
Limit: $5,000/year
Limit: $10,000/year
Limit: $1,500/year
Limit: $3,000/year
Limit: $6,000/year
Bulk billed
Limit: $250/year
Limit: $500/year
Limit: $1,000/year
Dental care
| Guarantee | Public system (Medicare) | Bupa Lite Extras | Bupa Comprehensive Extras | Bupa Platinum Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive and general dental care | Routine check-ups covered for children | 60% refund, up to $500/year | 75% refund, up to $1000/year | 100% refund, up to $1400/year |
| Basic dental care | Not covered | 60% refund, up to $500/year | 75% refund, up to $1,000/year | 100% refund, up to $1,400/year |
| Major dental care | Not covered | Not covered | 60% refund, up to $1,000/year | 90% refund, up to $1,800/year |
| Orthodontics | Not covered | Not covered | Up to $700 lifetime limit | Up to $2,800 lifetime limit |
Eye care
| Guarantee | Public Health System (Medicare) | Bupa Lite Extras | Bupa Mid Extras | Bupa Top Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses, contact lenses, surgery | Not covered | Up to $180 every 2 years | Up to $220 every 2 years | Up to $300 every 2 years |
| Optometrist consultation | Bulk billed, covers test only | 100% rebate, limit $60 each yr | 100% rebate, limit $80 each yr | 100% rebate, limit $120 each yr |
Specialized and paramedical care
| Guarantee | Public Health System (Medicare) | Bupa Basic Hospital & Extras | Bupa Mid Hospital & Extras | Bupa Top Hospital & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative therapies | Not covered | Up to $200/year, $25/consultation for acupuncture, remedial | Up to $400/year, $35/consultation for acupuncture, remedial | Up to $600/year, $50/consultation for acupuncture, remedial |
| Psychologist | Up to 10 sessions/year partially covered | $300/year, up to $60/session | $600/year, up to $80/session | $1000/year, up to $110/session |
| Speech therapy | Partially covered with referral, limits | $200/year, up to $45/session | $400/year, up to $60/session | $800/year, up to $90/session |
| Travel insurance | Not covered | Not included | Not included | Worldwide cover up to $250,000/year, medical emergencies only |
Good to know
Eligible for Bupa health insurance: - Any person residing in Australia - Age requirement: Minimum 18 years old to purchase a policy - Must hold a valid Medicare card or be eligible for Medicare in Australia - Dependent children can be covered up to a certain age (often 25 if studying full-time) - You can add or remove family members (partners, children) during the policy period. Choose from 4 main types of coverage options according to your needs: - Individual – Cover for one person only - Couple – Cover for you and your partner - Single Parent – Cover for one adult and dependent children - Family – Cover for two adults and their dependent children
What is the price of Bupa health insurance in 2025?
| Type of coverage (household composition) | Value Plan 1 | Value Plan 2 | Value Plan 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | About $85/month | About $120/month | About $160/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | About $170/month | About $240/month | About $320/month |
| Single parent (1 adult + 2 children) | About $195/month | About $270/month | About $350/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | About $240/month | About $330/month | About $430/month |
Is Bupa health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
Bupa health insurance is designed for newcomers to Australia, including international students, temporary workers, expatriates, and visitors. This coverage is particularly useful during the waiting period before you are eligible for the Australian public healthcare system (Medicare) or to meet visa requirements that mandate adequate health coverage upon arrival.
Main benefits covered by the Bupa plan
- Medical consultations and visits: Coverage for general practitioner (GP) visits and outpatient consultations. For example, consultations with a GP may be reimbursed up to 85% of the "Medicare Benefits Schedule" fee set by the government.
- Prescribed medicines: Reimbursement for prescription medicines listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The amount typically covers costs above a set co-payment, up to an annual limit (e.g., up to AUD $300 per year for singles, with a per-item cap).
- Specialist care: Access to specialists upon GP referral, with coverage for consultation fees, often up to 85% of the government-scheduled rate. Some policies may also include diagnostic tests (blood tests, imaging) if prescribed.
- Emergency dental care: Limited coverage for urgent situations such as accidental injury or sudden toothache. For instance, emergency dental procedures may be reimbursed up to a set limit per incident (e.g., up to AUD $500).
- Medical transport: Coverage for emergency ambulance transport to the nearest hospital, typically provided in cases where urgent care is required. This does not usually cover non-urgent or return trips.
- Additional expenses (hospitalisation or death): Hospital stays for medically necessary treatments are generally covered on a shared ward basis, including associated medical expenses. In some cases, benefits may also include a contribution toward repatriation of remains or funeral costs in case of death (often limited to a maximum benefit, for example, AUD $5,000).
Important information
Note: Specific reimbursement amounts may vary depending on the plan level and personal circumstances. It’s essential to check your policy for exact limits and exclusions.
The insurance is valid for the duration specified in your contract, typically from one month up to 12 months, and may be renewed if your visa and situation require ongoing coverage. Some plans limit coverage to individuals under a certain age (e.g., under 65 years) and may require you to enrol within a specific time frame after arrival in Australia. Coverage is generally only valid while you reside in Australia on an eligible visa (student, work, visitor), and may not be valid during extended travel outside Australia except for brief holidays (often up to 6 weeks). Eligibility usually requires a confirmed temporary resident or visitor status and sometimes excludes those already entitled to Medicare or with pre-existing conditions, depending on waiting periods and policy terms.
Does Bupa health insurance cover seniors?
The Parcours assurance santéMD program is designed for retirees and seniors who are approaching the end of a group health insurance contract, such as one provided by their previous employer. This offering enables a smooth transition from collective (group) insurance to an individual health insurance plan, providing continued coverage without interruption. Importantly, enrolment in the program does not require new proof of insurability, which means you will not need to undergo medical examinations or answer health questionnaires when applying.
To benefit from the Parcours assurance santéMD program, it is essential to apply within 60 days following the end of your group insurance coverage. This period allows you to secure your new individual policy with continuity of coverage.
Available coverage options include:
- Basic Health Plan: Covers essential medical needs, with access to general practitioner visits, basic hospital care, and standard prescription drugs.
- Extended Coverage Plan: Includes all features of the basic health plan, plus higher reimbursement rates for prescriptions, access to a broader network of specialists, and coverage for diagnostic tests.
- Vision and Dental Add-on: Optional coverage specifically for expenses related to eyewear, eye exams, dental check-ups, and basic dental treatments.
- Home Care Support: Provides reimbursement for various at-home care services, such as nursing assistance, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy, supporting seniors who require additional help to maintain independence.
- Travel Health Coverage: Offers cover for urgent medical expenses and assistance while travelling within Australia or abroad, ensuring peace of mind during trips.
- Comprehensive Package: Combines all benefits above—basic and extended medical, vision and dental, home care, and travel coverage—into one inclusive option for those seeking extensive protection.
Important
To ensure uninterrupted health coverage, be sure to submit your application for the Parcours assurance santéMD program within the 60-day window after your group insurance ends. Coverage options can be tailored to individual needs and adjusted over time, depending on personal health requirements and budget. For further assistance, contact Bupa’s dedicated support team for retirees.
How does reimbursement with Bupa work?
| Feature | Availability | Expert’s review (15-25 words, practical & clear) |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ✅ | Allows you to upload receipts and submit claims 24/7, saving time and avoiding mailing forms or visiting local branches. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Lets you conveniently manage your policy, submit claims, and access your digital member card directly from your smartphone anywhere, anytime. |
| Member portal for claim tracking | ✅ | Tracks the status and history of your reimbursements online, so you know exactly when payments will arrive and can monitor all claims in one place. |
| Benefits estimator/calculator | ✅ | Quickly provides personalised estimates for upcoming procedures, helping you avoid surprise expenses and plan your health budget more confidently. |
| Claims reimbursement timeframe | “48h” | Most approved claims are reimbursed within 48 hours, ensuring fast access to your entitled benefits after submitting claims. |
| Add or remove members without fees | ✅ | You can flexibly add or remove family members to your policy at no extra administrative cost, making adjustments as your needs change. |
| Telephone support with a health specialist | ✅ | Speak directly by phone with a qualified nurse or health expert, receiving advice and answers for everyday health concerns from home. |
| Second medical opinion | ✅ | Offers access to independent specialist reviews, supporting more informed health decisions and reassurance for major diagnoses or treatments. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | Enables you to get medical or travel help anytime worldwide, offering vital support during emergencies while travelling abroad. |
How to contact the health insurance Bupa?
| Reason for contact | Contacting Bupa |
|---|---|
| 🧾 I want to get a health insurance quote | Online: Get a quote Call: 134 135 Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST) Select “Health Insurance” then “Get a quote” option |
| 🧾 I need a proof of insurance | Log in to your online account to download your certificate Call: 134 135 Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST) Menu: “Existing member”, then “Documents” |
| 🩺 I need medical assistance | For urgent help abroad: +61 3 9937 4222 (24/7, reverse charges accepted) For general health advice: 134 135 Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST) Say “Medical assistance” or “Nurse advice” |
| 🔍 I want to report a claim or track a refund | Log in to your online account Call: 134 135 Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST) Menu: “Claims & benefits” or “Track my claim” |
Call: 134 135
Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST)
Select “Health Insurance” then “Get a quote” option
Call: 134 135
Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST)
Menu: “Existing member”, then “Documents”
For general health advice: 134 135
Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST)
Say “Medical assistance” or “Nurse advice”
Call: 134 135
Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–1pm (AEST)
Menu: “Claims & benefits” or “Track my claim”
Bupa promo codes
| Bupa Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% |
FAQ
Who can subscribe to Bupa health insurance?
If you are interested in Bupa health insurance, you can subscribe directly via the official Bupa website. However, it is recommended to first compare Bupa with other health insurance offers online using our health insurance comparison tool to make an informed decision.
Are there any age requirements with Bupa?
Bupa typically requires policyholders to be at least 18 years old to take out their own policy. However, there is no strict upper age limit for most health insurance products, and minors can be added as dependents on a family policy.
Can you add or remove insured members with Bupa?
Yes, with Bupa you can easily add or remove members, such as partners or children, from your health insurance policy. This can usually be done at any time by contacting customer service or through your online member portal.
Does Bupa health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Bupa health insurance typically covers pre-existing conditions after a waiting period, which is generally 12 months. It's important to check specific policy terms for details on waiting periods and coverage conditions.
How does Bupa handle hospital excess payments?
Bupa allows you to choose your preferred level of hospital excess, which affects your premiums and the out-of-pocket expenses you pay when admitted to hospital. Make sure to understand your chosen excess and how it impacts your premium and out-of-pocket costs.
Are extras like dental and optical included in Bupa health insurance?
Bupa offers extras cover that can be added to your policy for services such as dental, optical, physiotherapy, and more. The level of coverage and waiting periods for these extras will depend on the specific plan you select.
Who can subscribe to Bupa health insurance?
If you are interested in Bupa health insurance, you can subscribe directly via the official Bupa website. However, it is recommended to first compare Bupa with other health insurance offers online using our health insurance comparison tool to make an informed decision.
Are there any age requirements with Bupa?
Bupa typically requires policyholders to be at least 18 years old to take out their own policy. However, there is no strict upper age limit for most health insurance products, and minors can be added as dependents on a family policy.
Can you add or remove insured members with Bupa?
Yes, with Bupa you can easily add or remove members, such as partners or children, from your health insurance policy. This can usually be done at any time by contacting customer service or through your online member portal.
Does Bupa health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Bupa health insurance typically covers pre-existing conditions after a waiting period, which is generally 12 months. It's important to check specific policy terms for details on waiting periods and coverage conditions.
How does Bupa handle hospital excess payments?
Bupa allows you to choose your preferred level of hospital excess, which affects your premiums and the out-of-pocket expenses you pay when admitted to hospital. Make sure to understand your chosen excess and how it impacts your premium and out-of-pocket costs.
Are extras like dental and optical included in Bupa health insurance?
Bupa offers extras cover that can be added to your policy for services such as dental, optical, physiotherapy, and more. The level of coverage and waiting periods for these extras will depend on the specific plan you select.
