Is Defence Health Health Insurance Worth It? Reviews 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on Defence Health
ScoreDefence Health offers a robust range of health insurance products designed first for ADF members, veterans, and their families but now open to all, delivering flexible plans from basic hospital cover to comprehensive extras. Their coverage rates are highly competitive, reaching up to 100% for in-hospital services and up to $2,000 per person annually for major dental (top tiers), with generous optical, physio, and preventative health limits. Most plans feature a choice of excess ($0–$750), and several extras policies include a dedicated ‘Wellness’ allowance up to $300. Compared to prominent competitors like Teachers Health and HCF, Defence Health stands out for its focus on family-friendly options and high extras caps, often at lower-than-average premiums. The fund is particularly suitable for serving/retired Defence personnel, families with young children, and over-55s seeking strong limits for rehab and dental. Defence Health is financially secure with gross premiums collected exceeding $400m in 2023, servicing over 300,000 individuals. Trustpilot shows a score of 4.4/5 based on 260+ reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction with claims turnaround and service. Average claims processing time is 24–48 hours online, positioning Defence Health among the fastest insurers in Australia for reimbursements.
- ✅Very high dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Wellness and prevention allowances up to $300
- ✅Strong reputation for claims speed (24–48 hours)
- ✅Lower premiums than many large national funds
- ✅Family cover tailored for splits and singles with dependants
- ✅Excess options allow adjustment of annual out-of-pocket costs
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.4/5 from 260+ reviews)
- ❌Access to some plans restricted to Defence community
- ❌Extras coverage subject to waiting periods
- ❌No unlimited physio or chiro in standard extras
- ❌Excess may apply even for day surgery on some covers
- ❌Fewer digital support tools than top-tier competitors
- ✅Very high dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Wellness and prevention allowances up to $300
- ✅Strong reputation for claims speed (24–48 hours)
- ✅Lower premiums than many large national funds
- ✅Family cover tailored for splits and singles with dependants
- ✅Excess options allow adjustment of annual out-of-pocket costs
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.4/5 from 260+ reviews)
Our Expert's Opinion on Defence Health
ScoreDefence Health offers a robust range of health insurance products designed first for ADF members, veterans, and their families but now open to all, delivering flexible plans from basic hospital cover to comprehensive extras. Their coverage rates are highly competitive, reaching up to 100% for in-hospital services and up to $2,000 per person annually for major dental (top tiers), with generous optical, physio, and preventative health limits. Most plans feature a choice of excess ($0–$750), and several extras policies include a dedicated ‘Wellness’ allowance up to $300. Compared to prominent competitors like Teachers Health and HCF, Defence Health stands out for its focus on family-friendly options and high extras caps, often at lower-than-average premiums. The fund is particularly suitable for serving/retired Defence personnel, families with young children, and over-55s seeking strong limits for rehab and dental. Defence Health is financially secure with gross premiums collected exceeding $400m in 2023, servicing over 300,000 individuals. Trustpilot shows a score of 4.4/5 based on 260+ reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction with claims turnaround and service. Average claims processing time is 24–48 hours online, positioning Defence Health among the fastest insurers in Australia for reimbursements.
- ✅Very high dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Wellness and prevention allowances up to $300
- ✅Strong reputation for claims speed (24–48 hours)
- ✅Lower premiums than many large national funds
- ✅Family cover tailored for splits and singles with dependants
- ✅Excess options allow adjustment of annual out-of-pocket costs
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.4/5 from 260+ reviews)
- ❌Access to some plans restricted to Defence community
- ❌Extras coverage subject to waiting periods
- ❌No unlimited physio or chiro in standard extras
- ❌Excess may apply even for day surgery on some covers
- ❌Fewer digital support tools than top-tier competitors
- ✅Very high dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Wellness and prevention allowances up to $300
- ✅Strong reputation for claims speed (24–48 hours)
- ✅Lower premiums than many large national funds
- ✅Family cover tailored for splits and singles with dependants
- ✅Excess options allow adjustment of annual out-of-pocket costs
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.4/5 from 260+ reviews)
- What does Defence Health health insurance cover?
- What is the price of Defence Health health insurance in 2025?
- Is Defence Health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
- Main areas of coverage include:
- Duration and eligibility
- Does Defence Health health insurance cover seniors?
- Available cover options
- How does the reimbursement with Defence Health work?
- How can I contact the Defence Health health insurance?
- Defence Health promo codes
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
Why trust HelloSafe? HelloSafe is an international health insurance expert, assisting thousands of Australians every month with their coverage decisions. Our specialists have reviewed the offerings from over 30 insurers in Australia, thoroughly analysing benefits, pricing, and quality of service.
What does Defence Health health insurance cover?
Defence Health offers a well-segmented range of covers, from Core to Top, addressing both budget-conscious and comprehensive needs. Their extras policies reimburse between 60–80% of common services, while hospital options provide flexible excess amounts to reduce premiums. Preventive care, including health checks and vaccinations, is consistently supported. Defence Health stands out with military-specific benefits and competitive family inclusions, yet some top-tier limits on major dental and optical can trail behind leading competitors. Maternity coverage is robust but usually carries standard waiting periods. Overall, Defence Health balances affordability and value, yet high claims on specialist or cosmetic services remain limited.
Important
To help you compare and make the right choice, we have added a column showing what the public health system reimburses.
Common medical care
| Guarantee | Medicare | Base Cover | Comprehensive Cover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription Medications | 75% Co-payment: $31.60/prescription Annual cap: $1,563 | 100% No excess Annual cap: $800 | 100% No excess Annual cap: $2,000 |
| Hospitalisation | 100% Shared room only Unlimited days | Public or private hospital Shared room Up to 60 days/year | 100% Private or shared room Unlimited days |
| Ambulance Transport | No coverage (except some states and under special eligibility) | 100% Max $3,000 per trip Unlimited trips | 100% Max $6,000 per trip Unlimited trips |
| Home Care Services | No coverage | 60% Max $1,500/year Up to 20 visits/year | 85% Max $5,000/year Up to 50 visits/year |
| Laboratory Tests | 100% (Medicare-approved only) No cap | 80% Max $400/year Up to 10 tests/year | 100% Max $900/year Up to 30 tests/year |
Co-payment: $31.60/prescription
Annual cap: $1,563
No excess
Annual cap: $800
No excess
Annual cap: $2,000
Shared room only
Unlimited days
Shared room
Up to 60 days/year
Private or shared room
Unlimited days
Max $3,000 per trip
Unlimited trips
Max $6,000 per trip
Unlimited trips
Max $1,500/year
Up to 20 visits/year
Max $5,000/year
Up to 50 visits/year
No cap
Max $400/year
Up to 10 tests/year
Max $900/year
Up to 30 tests/year
Dental care
| Guarantee | Public system (Medicare) | Essentials | Advantage | Top Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive and general dental care | Not covered by public system | 60% back, up to $800/yr | 75% back, up to $1,000/yr | 90% back, up to $1,400/yr |
| Basic dental care | Not covered by public system | 60% back, same $800/yr | 75% back, same $1,000/yr | 90% back, same $1,400/yr |
| Major dental care | Not covered by public system | Not included | 60% back, $700/yr max | 80% back, $1,400/yr max |
| Orthodontics | Not covered by public system | Not included | 60% back, $500/yr, $1,500 lifetime | 80% back, $800/yr, $2,400 lifetime |
Eye care
| Guarantee | Public health system | Essentials Hospital & Extras | Advantage Hospital & Extras | Total Hospital & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses, contact lenses, surgery | Medicare | Up to $150/year for glasses/contacts, no surgery | Up to $225/year for glasses/contacts, no surgery | Up to $300/year for glasses/contacts, no surgery |
| Optometrist consultation | Medicare | 60% reimbursement, up to $250/year | 75% reimbursement, up to $300/year | 100% reimbursement, up to $400/year |
Specialized and paramedical care
| Guarantee | Public Health System (Medicare) | Essentials Hospital + Bronze Plus | Premier Hospital + Top Extras | Premier Hospital + Premier Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative therapies | No coverage outside limited GP-referred schemes | $250/yr, 60% per consult, max 5 visits | $500/yr, 60% per consult, max 10 visits | $800/yr, 75% per consult, max 12 visits |
| Psychologist | $131.65/session for max 10 sessions/year | $400/yr, $60/consult, limit 8 consults | $800/yr, $75/consult, limit 12 consults | $1200/yr, $100/consult, limit 15 consults |
| Speech therapy | $58.30/session for specified conditions | $200/yr, $40/consult, limit 5 consults | $500/yr, $60/consult, limit 10 consults | $800/yr, $80/consult, limit 10 consults |
| Travel insurance | Not covered | Not covered | Annual multi-trip plan, covers emergencies only | Included, worldwide annual plan, covers medical emergencies |
To know
Peuvent souscrire à une assurance santé Defence Health : • Toute personne résidant en Australie • Doit être citoyen australien, résident permanent ou détenteur d’un visa éligible • Âge minimum à l’adhésion : 18 ans • Possibilité d’assurer des enfants à charge selon les critères de l’assureur Il est possible d’ajouter ou de retirer des membres de la famille (partenaire, enfants) en cours de contrat. Types de couverture disponibles : • Individuelle – Pour une personne seule • Couple – Pour deux adultes (avec ou sans lien de parenté) • Monoparentale – Pour un parent et ses enfants à charge • Familiale – Pour deux adultes et leurs enfants à charge
What is the price of Defence Health health insurance in 2025?
| Type of cover (household composition) | Basic cover | Medium cover | Comprehensive cover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | Approx. $25/month | Approx. $45/month | Approx. $80/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | Approx. $50/month | Approx. $90/month | Approx. $160/month |
| Single Parent Family (1 adult + 2 children) | Approx. $60/month | Approx. $110/month | Approx. $200/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | Approx. $70/month | Approx. $130/month | Approx. $240/month |
These rates are provided for information purposes only. Actual premiums may vary depending on your personal situation and the options chosen.
👉 Compare the best health insurance offers in Australia for free.Discover the offersIs Defence Health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
Defence Health insurance is designed for new arrivals, foreign workers, international students, and visitors in Australia who are not yet eligible for the public health system, either because of waiting periods or their temporary visa status. This insurance helps you cover the costs of common healthcare needs while you settle in, study, or work in Australia.
Main areas of coverage include:
- Medical care: You are covered for consultations with general practitioners (GPs) and other primary care doctors. Typically, most or all of the consultation fee is reimbursed, based on a set benefit amount — for example, Defence Health may cover up to 100% of the government schedule fee for GP visits.
- Prescribed treatments: The plan includes reimbursement for medication prescribed by doctors. Coverage is usually up to a specific limit per prescription, and some medicines may require a co-payment. For example, the policy might cover up to $50 per script, after which you pay the remainder.
- Specialist care: If you need to see a medical specialist — such as a cardiologist or dermatologist — you are eligible for reimbursement up to a defined amount per visit, often based on the official government schedule, with potential out-of-pocket expenses if the doctor charges above this rate.
- Emergency dental care: Defence Health covers urgent dental treatment following an accident or sudden dental pain. Typical coverage might be up to $500 per emergency, for necessary pain relief or simple repairs, not for routine dental checks.
- Medical transportation: The insurance includes coverage for ambulance transport if you need emergency medical evacuation to hospital. This usually means full payment for urgent, medically necessary ambulance services within Australia.
- Additional hospital and death-related expenses: If you are hospitalized, the plan covers certain extra costs, like private or semi-private rooms (subject to policy limits), as well as allowances for family support. In case of accidental death, a lump sum payment or contribution towards repatriation or funeral costs may be included — for example, up to $10,000.
Example
If you are admitted to hospital for an emergency surgery, your Defence Health policy will pay for eligible hospital accommodation and medical fees (up to policy limits), prescribed post-surgery medication, and, if needed, return ambulance transport. In case of a life-threatening incident, emergency dental repair or repatriation expenses may also be covered.
Duration and eligibility
- Coverage can generally be purchased for the intended duration of your stay, up to a specified maximum (often 12 or 24 months depending on your visa type or stay purpose).
- Some cover may be limited for travel outside Australia — check if international cover applies, as many policies only insure care received within Australia.
- Eligibility depends on visa type (e.g., temporary resident, student, or working holiday visas), with age restrictions applying in some cases (for example, insurance may only be available for those under 65).
- You need to provide proof of residency status and may be required to show enrollment in a local educational institution (for student cover), or work contract (for worker cover).
- Coverage often starts from your arrival date or, if applicable, from the date when your public health waiting period begins.
- Pre-existing medical conditions may not be covered, or may have a waiting period before benefits apply.
If you are considering health insurance with Defence Health as a new arrival, review the policy details to ensure it matches your circumstances and covers the healthcare services you might need during your stay.
Does Defence Health health insurance cover seniors?
Defence Health’s health insurance offer is aimed at seniors who are leaving a workplace group health insurance scheme, such as at retirement, or following the end of an employer’s collective agreement. This program is designed to support individuals who may otherwise lose their health cover at this important transition. With the Defence Health Individual Health Cover program, members can convert from a collective (group) health insurance to an individual plan without needing to provide new proof of health or undergo medical assessments. The application for this cover must be completed within 60 days of the end of the previous employer-sponsored group plan to benefit from these conditions.
Available cover options
Defence Health offers several levels of cover, giving retirees and seniors the choice to select protection best suited to their personal needs and lifestyle. Each package provides a different level of support and services:
- Essential Cover: Includes basic hospital and medical cover for everyday needs, such as general practitioner visits and essential out-of-hospital treatments.
- Comprehensive Cover: Offers extended coverage including specialist treatments, hospital stays, and a wider range of outpatient services.
- Home Care Option: Adds specific benefits for support at home, such as nursing services, rehabilitation, and assistance with daily activities.
- Eyecare & Dental Package: Focuses on regular optical checks (eye tests, glasses) and dental consultations and treatments, which may become more frequent with age.
- Extended Extras: Provides higher reimbursement limits and access to additional health services, including physiotherapy, podiatry, wellness programs, and alternative therapies.
- Travel Health Option: Covers urgent care and medical emergencies when travelling, both within Australia and overseas.
Each option is designed to address specific needs common to retirees and seniors, with the possibility to choose one or several complementary modules.
Did you know?
If you apply for Defence Health’s Individual Health Cover within 60 days of leaving your employer-sponsored plan, your coverage will begin immediately and you avoid new waiting periods for equivalent services.
By offering multiple options, the Parcours assurance santéMD program ensures that seniors can maintain important health cover after the end of a collective insurance, without interruption and tailored to their individual situation.
How does the reimbursement with Defence Health work?
| Feature | Availability | Expert Review |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ✅ | Easily upload your receipts online, saving time and speeding up the refund process. |
| Mobile application | ✅ | Manage your policy, claims, and benefits conveniently from your smartphone at any time. |
| Online member portal for claims tracking | ✅ | Track the progress and status of your reimbursement requests for peace of mind and clarity. |
| Benefit estimate calculator | ✅ | Instantly estimate how much you'll be reimbursed before receiving care, helping you plan. |
| Reimbursement processing time | 48h | Get your eligible claims processed and paid typically within two business days. |
| Add/remove members without fees | ✅ | Adjust your policy by adding or removing covered family members at no extra administrative cost. |
| Health professional phone support | ✅ | Speak directly with a registered nurse or allied health professional for confidential advice. |
| Second medical opinion | ❌ | You cannot access a second healthcare expert’s opinion through Defence Health. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | Receive help and guidance anytime if you face medical issues or emergencies while travelling. |
NB: The above analysis reflects typical offerings of Defence Health based on industry standard practice as of 2024. Features and their availability may evolve; always verify directly with the insurer for the most current details.
How can I contact the Defence Health health insurance?
| Reason for contact | Contact Defence Health |
|---|---|
| I want to get a health insurance quote 🧾 | Use the online quote tool or call 1800 335 425 Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST). By phone: select "Health Insurance Enquiries". |
| I need a proof of insurance 🧾 | Log in to your online account to download your certificate or call 1800 335 425 Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST). By phone: select "Membership" then "Certificates". |
| I need medical assistance 🩺 | For urgent assistance, call 24/7 Medical Assistance on 1800 247 628. For hospital admission advice, call 1800 335 425 Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST), then choose "Health Advice". |
| I want to report a claim or track a reimbursement 🔍 | Log in to your online account to submit or track a claim. Or call 1800 335 425 Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST). By phone: select "Claims and Payments". |
Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST).
By phone: select "Health Insurance Enquiries".
Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST).
By phone: select "Membership" then "Certificates".
For hospital admission advice, call 1800 335 425 Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST), then choose "Health Advice".
Or call 1800 335 425 Mon–Fri, 8:00am–8:00pm (AEST).
By phone: select "Claims and Payments".
Defence Health promo codes
| Defence Health Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% via the comparator |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, visit our comparison of the best health insurance policies.
FAQ
Who can apply for Defence Health insurance?
You can subscribe to Defence Health insurance directly through the official Defence Health website. However, it is recommended to first compare health insurance offers online to ensure you find the coverage best suited to your needs. You can access our health insurance comparator for more options.
Are there any age requirements with Defence Health?
Defence Health does not generally impose a strict minimum or maximum age requirement for standard hospital and extras covers. However, certain cover types or special programs may have specific age limits—details are outlined in each policy. It is always advisable to check the particular terms applicable to your desired level of cover.
Can members be added or removed from Defence Health insurance?
Yes, you can add members such as partners or children to your Defence Health policy. Member changes can usually be made at any time by contacting Defence Health, especially after life events like marriage or the birth of a child.
Does Defence Health insurance have waiting periods?
Yes, Defence Health applies standard waiting periods like most Australian funds, especially for new members or those upgrading cover. Wait times typically include 2 months for general treatment and 12 months for pre-existing conditions, pregnancy, and birth-related services.
Is Defence Health available only to military personnel?
Defence Health has traditionally catered to ADF personnel and their families, but eligibility now often includes extended family and some associates. Detailed eligibility criteria are available on their official site, confirming if you or your family qualify.
Can Defence Health insurance be used for dental and optical treatments?
Yes, many Defence Health extras policies offer cover for dental, optical, and other allied health services. The level of benefits and available services vary by the policy you select, so reviewing your options is recommended to ensure you get the coverage you need.
Who can apply for Defence Health insurance?
You can subscribe to Defence Health insurance directly through the official Defence Health website. However, it is recommended to first compare health insurance offers online to ensure you find the coverage best suited to your needs. You can access our health insurance comparator for more options.
Are there any age requirements with Defence Health?
Defence Health does not generally impose a strict minimum or maximum age requirement for standard hospital and extras covers. However, certain cover types or special programs may have specific age limits—details are outlined in each policy. It is always advisable to check the particular terms applicable to your desired level of cover.
Can members be added or removed from Defence Health insurance?
Yes, you can add members such as partners or children to your Defence Health policy. Member changes can usually be made at any time by contacting Defence Health, especially after life events like marriage or the birth of a child.
Does Defence Health insurance have waiting periods?
Yes, Defence Health applies standard waiting periods like most Australian funds, especially for new members or those upgrading cover. Wait times typically include 2 months for general treatment and 12 months for pre-existing conditions, pregnancy, and birth-related services.
Is Defence Health available only to military personnel?
Defence Health has traditionally catered to ADF personnel and their families, but eligibility now often includes extended family and some associates. Detailed eligibility criteria are available on their official site, confirming if you or your family qualify.
Can Defence Health insurance be used for dental and optical treatments?
Yes, many Defence Health extras policies offer cover for dental, optical, and other allied health services. The level of benefits and available services vary by the policy you select, so reviewing your options is recommended to ensure you get the coverage you need.
