Is HBF Health Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on HBF
ScoreHBF stands out in the Australian health insurance market by offering a range of health cover products, from entry-level to comprehensive, with flexible options to suit individuals, couples, and families. Its reimbursement rates reach up to 100% of scheduled fees for hospital costs under selected tiers, and annual limits for extras cover are competitive (up to $1,700 for dental, optical, and physio combined, depending on the product). HBF’s hospital covers generally do not require an excess payment for same-day admissions or dependents. A notable prevention benefit includes up to $200 per year on wellness programs. Compared to leading competitors like Medibank and Bupa, HBF is generally more affordable, particularly for singles and families in Western Australia, with pricing 5–10% below the market average for equivalent cover. HBF has over 1.1 million members and annual premium revenue exceeding $1.7 billion, underpinning its financial stability and reliability. On Trustpilot, HBF scores 4.1/5 from over 3,400 reviews, highlighting strong client satisfaction, especially with easy claims and customer service. Claims are typically processed within 1–3 working days, making HBF a trusted choice for those seeking both value and responsive cover. HBF is particularly suitable for families, young couples, and Western Australian residents prioritising accessible care.
- ✅Wide range of flexible cover options
- ✅Competitive pricing compared to national peers
- ✅High extras limits for dental and physio
- ✅No excess for same-day hospital admissions
- ✅Fast claims processing: average 1–3 days
- ✅Strong financial stability and reputation
- ✅Well-rated customer service (4.1/5, 3,400+ reviews)
- ❌Best value for WA residents—less competitive nationwide
- ❌Some limits on alternative therapies
- ❌Waiting periods on major dental and optical
- ❌No direct international coverage
- ❌Digital tools less advanced than some competitors
- ✅Wide range of flexible cover options
- ✅Competitive pricing compared to national peers
- ✅High extras limits for dental and physio
- ✅No excess for same-day hospital admissions
- ✅Fast claims processing: average 1–3 days
- ✅Strong financial stability and reputation
- ✅Well-rated customer service (4.1/5, 3,400+ reviews)
Our Expert's Opinion on HBF
ScoreHBF stands out in the Australian health insurance market by offering a range of health cover products, from entry-level to comprehensive, with flexible options to suit individuals, couples, and families. Its reimbursement rates reach up to 100% of scheduled fees for hospital costs under selected tiers, and annual limits for extras cover are competitive (up to $1,700 for dental, optical, and physio combined, depending on the product). HBF’s hospital covers generally do not require an excess payment for same-day admissions or dependents. A notable prevention benefit includes up to $200 per year on wellness programs. Compared to leading competitors like Medibank and Bupa, HBF is generally more affordable, particularly for singles and families in Western Australia, with pricing 5–10% below the market average for equivalent cover. HBF has over 1.1 million members and annual premium revenue exceeding $1.7 billion, underpinning its financial stability and reliability. On Trustpilot, HBF scores 4.1/5 from over 3,400 reviews, highlighting strong client satisfaction, especially with easy claims and customer service. Claims are typically processed within 1–3 working days, making HBF a trusted choice for those seeking both value and responsive cover. HBF is particularly suitable for families, young couples, and Western Australian residents prioritising accessible care.
- ✅Wide range of flexible cover options
- ✅Competitive pricing compared to national peers
- ✅High extras limits for dental and physio
- ✅No excess for same-day hospital admissions
- ✅Fast claims processing: average 1–3 days
- ✅Strong financial stability and reputation
- ✅Well-rated customer service (4.1/5, 3,400+ reviews)
- ❌Best value for WA residents—less competitive nationwide
- ❌Some limits on alternative therapies
- ❌Waiting periods on major dental and optical
- ❌No direct international coverage
- ❌Digital tools less advanced than some competitors
- ✅Wide range of flexible cover options
- ✅Competitive pricing compared to national peers
- ✅High extras limits for dental and physio
- ✅No excess for same-day hospital admissions
- ✅Fast claims processing: average 1–3 days
- ✅Strong financial stability and reputation
- ✅Well-rated customer service (4.1/5, 3,400+ reviews)
- What does HBF health insurance cover?
- What is the price of HBF health insurance in 2025?
- Is the HBF health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
- Main Benefits Provided by the HBF Policy
- Duration and Conditions of HBF Health Insurance
- Does HBF health insurance cover seniors?
- How does the reimbursement with HBF work?
- How to contact the health insurance HBF?
- HBF promo codes
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
Why trust HelloSafe? HelloSafe is an international health insurance expert, supporting hundreds of thousands of Australians each month in making informed coverage choices. Our specialists have thoroughly reviewed plans from over 30 insurers in Australia, carefully analysing coverage options, pricing, and quality of service.
What does HBF health insurance cover?
HBF offers a range of health insurance plans, from Essential to Top Hospital and tailored Extras, covering hospital, medical, dental and optical. HBF stands out with no excess for kids in family hospital cover, strong preventive care options, and annual limits well above the public benchmark. Most plans reimburse from 60% to 90% of eligible expenses, but some routine dental and major optical needs may require top-tier cover or result in low rebates. Gaps can exist for certain specialists and alternative therapies. Premiums remain competitive, but out-of-pocket costs vary by service.
Important information
Important: for you to make the best comparison and decision, we have added a column showing what the public health system reimburses.
Routine medical care
| Coverage | Medicare | Basic Hospital & Extras | Mid Hospital & Extras | Top Hospital & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription medications | PBS: Co-payment required Safety net applies No annual cap | 70% Deductible: $50/year Annual cap: $200 | 80% Deductible: $30/year Annual cap: $400 | 90% Deductible: $0 Annual cap: $1,000 |
| Hospitalisation | 100% public hospital stay Shared room Duration: unlimited | 100% private hospital Shared room Up to 60 days/year | 100% private hospital Private room where available Up to 180 days/year | 100% all private hospital services Guaranteed private room Unlimited days |
| Ambulance transport | Not covered (except emergencies in some states) | 75% $3,000/year | 100% $4,000/year | 100% $8,000/year |
| Home care | Not covered | 60% $1,000/year | 80% $2,000/year | 100% $5,000/year |
| Pathology tests | 85% MBS rebate No cap | 100% $250/year | 100% $400/year | 100% $1,000/year |
Safety net applies
No annual cap
Deductible: $50/year
Annual cap: $200
Deductible: $30/year
Annual cap: $400
Deductible: $0
Annual cap: $1,000
Shared room
Duration: unlimited
Shared room
Up to 60 days/year
Private room where available
Up to 180 days/year
Guaranteed private room
Unlimited days
$3,000/year
$4,000/year
$8,000/year
$1,000/year
$2,000/year
$5,000/year
No cap
$250/year
$400/year
$1,000/year
Dental care
| Guarantee | Public System | HBF Basic Hospital & Extras | HBF Mid Hospital & Extras | HBF Top Hospital & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive & General Dental Care | Medicare | 60% back, up to $500/year | 70% back, up to $900/year | 75% back, up to $1,200/year |
| Basic Dental Care | Medicare | Covered in annual dental limit | Covered in annual dental limit | Covered in annual dental limit |
| Major Dental Care | Medicare | No cover | 50% back, up to $800/year | 60% back, up to $1,200/year |
| Orthodontics | Medicare | Not covered | Not covered | 60% back, up to $2,000 lifetime limit |
Eye care
| Guarantee | Public Healthcare System | HBF Basic Hospital & Extras | HBF Mid Hospital & Extras | HBF Top Hospital & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses, lenses, eye surgery (refund rate, amount, period) | Medicare | $120/year, up to 60% refund | $180/year, up to 75% refund | $300/year, 100% up to annual limit |
| Optometrist consultation (refund rate, amount, period) | Medicare | Covered by Medicare | Covered by Medicare | Covered by Medicare |
Specialized and paramedical care
| Guarantee | Medicare | Basic Hospital Cover | Silver Hospital Cover | Gold Hospital Cover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative therapies | Not covered | Not covered | $200 per year, up to $30/consultation | $400 per year, up to $50/consultation |
| Psychologist | Medicare covers some sessions | Not covered | $250 per year, up to $60/consultation | $500 per year, up to $80/consultation |
| Speech therapy | Medicare covers children only | Not covered | $150 per year, up to $35/consultation | $300 per year, up to $50/consultation |
| Travel insurance | Not covered | Not included | Not included | Worldwide, up to $20,000/year, emergencies only |
Good to know
Eligible for HBF health insurance: Any person residing in Australia Must be registered with Medicare (public health system) Minimum entry age: 18 years Dependent children can be covered until the age of 25 if they are full-time students. You can add or remove family members (partner, children) at any time during your contract. Choose from different coverage types to suit your needs: Single – For one person only Couple – For two adults (partners) Single Parent – For one adult and dependent children Family – For two adults and their dependent children
What is the price of HBF health insurance in 2025?
| Type of protection (household composition) | Plan 1 | Plan 2 | Plan 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | About $25/month | About $35/month | About $55/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | About $48/month | About $67/month | About $99/month |
| Single parent (1 adult + 2 children) | About $52/month | About $74/month | About $111/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | About $70/month | About $99/month | About $148/month |
These rates are indicative. Actual premiums may differ depending on your personal circumstances and chosen options.
👉 Compare the best health insurance offers in Australia for free.Discover the offersIs the HBF health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
The HBF health insurance is intended for new arrivals in Australia, such as temporary residents, international workers, expatriates, international students, and visitors. It is particularly useful for people who are not yet covered by Australia’s public health system (Medicare), for example during mandatory waiting periods or if you are not eligible for Medicare at all. This insurance helps with the cost of necessary medical care during your initial stay in the country.
Main Benefits Provided by the HBF Policy
- Medical careCovers general practitioner (GP) consultations and visits to walk-in clinics. For example, everyday illnesses, minor injuries, and routine check-ups are usually reimbursed up to 100% of the recognized schedule of fees.
- Prescribed treatmentsIncludes coverage for medications prescribed by a doctor and diagnostic tests such as bloodwork or basic imaging (X-rays). For prescription drugs, the reimbursement is generally limited to the benefit level (for instance, up to $50 per prescription, after deducting any copay).
- Specialist treatmentsSupports costs for appointments with medical specialists (like dermatologists or cardiologists) upon GP referral, as well as specialized tests and scans. Coverage may be between 85% and 100% of the standard benefit rate.
- Emergency dental careReimburses emergency dental treatment needed because of sudden pain or injury, for example, up to a maximum of $500 per event. Routine dental care like check-ups and cleanings is not included.
- Medical transportCovers the cost of ambulance transport in case of an emergency. For instance, ambulance fees can be reimbursed in full, with no annual limit for medically necessary trips.
- Additional expenses (hospitalization or death)Includes a daily hospital allowance (for example, $100 per day, up to a capped amount per hospital stay) to help with extra costs during inpatient care. In case of death, a lump sum benefit may assist with repatriation or funeral expenses (for example, up to $10,000).
Useful to know
Coverage levels, benefit limits, and eligible services vary depending on the selected plan type. Some exclusions and waiting periods may apply, especially for pre-existing conditions or pregnancy-related care.
Duration and Conditions of HBF Health Insurance
HBF insurance can generally be held for the entire duration of your residency status in Australia or up to a maximum period defined by the insurer (often 12 months, renewable). There may be rules regarding minimum and maximum subscription length, usually requiring at least 1 month.
You must subscribe before your arrival or within a specified period after entering Australia. Eligibility conditions include holding a specific temporary visa, being under a stated age limit (often between 18 and 65 years old for standard cover), and providing proof of your intended stay.
Travel outside Australia may be covered for urgent situations, but most routine care is only reimbursed for services obtained in Australia. Be sure to check the plan’s terms for limitations about travel coverage and eligible countries.
Does HBF health insurance cover seniors?
The HBF health insurance program is designed for Australians who are reaching retirement and coming to the end of their employer-provided group health cover. It is specifically aimed at individuals who wish to maintain continuous health coverage without facing a break in insurance, such as retirees, people whose group health insurance is ending, or spouses of policyholders. The program enables eligible members to convert their group health insurance into an individual plan through the Health Cover Continuity Pathway (Parcours assurance santéMD), without the need to provide any new evidence of health status or undergo medical checks.
To benefit from this program, you must submit your application within 60 days of your group health insurance end date. This allows you to transition to HBF’s individual health cover smoothly, ensuring there is no gap in your protection.
The Health Cover Continuity Pathway offers several options tailored to the health needs of seniors, each with its own features:
- Basic Hospital Cover: Provides coverage for essential hospital treatments and services. It is designed to help with out-of-pocket costs if you need to be admitted to hospital for common procedures.
- Mid Hospital and Extras Cover: Adds coverage for a wider range of hospital treatments as well as out-of-hospital services, including physiotherapy, dental check-ups, and some optical claims.
- Top Hospital and Extras Cover: Offers the most comprehensive coverage, including advanced hospital treatments, greater limits for extras, and higher rebates for services such as dental work, optical care (like glasses and eye exams), and physiotherapy.
- Overseas and Travel Cover: An optional add-on for those who travel interstate or overseas, providing assistance and coverage for emergency medical needs during your travels.
- Home Care and Recovery Support: An option to assist seniors who may require care or supportive services at home following a hospital stay, easing the transition back to daily life.
- Flexible Extras Cover: Allows you to tailor extra benefits according to your health priorities, such as physiotherapy, home nursing, podiatry, and aids for daily living.
Important Information
If you wish to continue your health cover with HBF after leaving your group insurance, you must apply through the Health Cover Continuity Pathway program within 60 days of your group policy ending. This process ensures you do not need to submit further medical evidence or start new waiting periods for equivalent cover.
Each coverage level can be selected according to your personal needs and budget, ensuring you maintain access to necessary healthcare services as you transition into retirement. For personalised assistance, HBF advisors are available to guide you through your options.
How does the reimbursement with HBF work?
| Feature | Availability | Expert Opinion |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ✅ | Save time and paperwork by uploading your medical invoices and following up directly online. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Manage your coverage, view claims, and access support easily from your smartphone anytime. |
| Member portal for claims tracking | ✅ | Quickly check the status and history of your refunds, so you always know where you stand. |
| Claims estimator | ✅ | Estimate how much you’ll be reimbursed before treatment to avoid surprises on your bill. |
| Reimbursement processing time | 48h | Most claims are processed within 48 hours, allowing for fast access to your reimbursements. |
| Add/remove members without fees | ✅ | Update your family composition whenever needed without paying extra costs for changes. |
| Telehealth support line | ✅ | Speak to a nurse or medical professional by phone for health advice and guidance any time. |
| Second medical opinion | ✅ | Access another qualified doctor’s expert opinion when facing difficult treatment decisions. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | Get emergency help, information or support wherever you are, day or night, during your trips. |
How to contact the health insurance HBF?
| Contact reason | Contact HBF |
|---|---|
| 🧾 I want to get a health insurance quote | - Use the online quote tool or call 133 423 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm, Sat, 9am–5pm, AWST). Select 'Get a quote' in the menu. |
| 🧾 I need an insurance certificate | - Log in to your online account and download your certificate. For help, call 133 423, select 'Member services'. |
| 🩺 I need medical assistance | - Call the 24/7 HBF Health Nurse Advice Line: 1800 885 603. For emergency, dial 000. State your member number if calling the Nurse Advice Line. |
| 🔍 I want to report an incident or track a claim | - Log in to your online account to submit or track claims. For complex enquiries, call 133 423 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm, Sat, 9am–5pm, AWST). Select 'Claims' in the menu. |
or call 133 423 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm, Sat, 9am–5pm, AWST).
Select 'Get a quote' in the menu.
For help, call 133 423, select 'Member services'.
For emergency, dial 000.
State your member number if calling the Nurse Advice Line.
For complex enquiries, call 133 423 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm, Sat, 9am–5pm, AWST).
Select 'Claims' in the menu.
HBF promo codes
| HBF Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. To get the latest promo codes, visit our best health insurance comparison page.
FAQ
Who can apply for HBF health insurance?
You can apply for HBF health insurance via the official partner’s website. However, it is recommended to first compare online various health insurance offers to find the best option for your needs. Visit our health insurance comparison tool for more information.
Are there any age requirements with HBF?
HBF generally offers health insurance to Australian residents of all ages, though some policies may have minimum age requirements, typically 16 or 18 years old, and maximum entry ages may occasionally apply for specific products. Always check the terms of the specific policy for detailed eligibility.
Can members be added or removed from HBF health cover?
Yes, you can add or remove members such as partners or children from your HBF health insurance. Changes can usually be made at policy renewal or after certain life events by contacting HBF directly or via your member portal.
What waiting periods apply to HBF health insurance policies?
Waiting periods vary depending on the type of cover and benefits, such as 2 months for general cover and 12 months for pre-existing conditions or pregnancy. These are standard across many Australian health funds and are detailed in your policy documentation.
Does HBF health insurance cover ambulance services?
Most HBF hospital and extras policies provide some level of cover for ambulance services within Australia, but the extent of coverage can differ by state and policy. It is advisable to review your policy or speak to HBF to confirm the specific coverage available to you.
Can I switch to HBF from another health insurer without losing coverage?
Yes, when transferring from another Australian health insurer, your served waiting periods for equivalent benefits usually carry over to your new HBF policy, provided there is no gap in cover. Make sure to check with HBF for exact details and transfer procedures.
Who can apply for HBF health insurance?
You can apply for HBF health insurance via the official partner’s website. However, it is recommended to first compare online various health insurance offers to find the best option for your needs. Visit our health insurance comparison tool for more information.
Are there any age requirements with HBF?
HBF generally offers health insurance to Australian residents of all ages, though some policies may have minimum age requirements, typically 16 or 18 years old, and maximum entry ages may occasionally apply for specific products. Always check the terms of the specific policy for detailed eligibility.
Can members be added or removed from HBF health cover?
Yes, you can add or remove members such as partners or children from your HBF health insurance. Changes can usually be made at policy renewal or after certain life events by contacting HBF directly or via your member portal.
What waiting periods apply to HBF health insurance policies?
Waiting periods vary depending on the type of cover and benefits, such as 2 months for general cover and 12 months for pre-existing conditions or pregnancy. These are standard across many Australian health funds and are detailed in your policy documentation.
Does HBF health insurance cover ambulance services?
Most HBF hospital and extras policies provide some level of cover for ambulance services within Australia, but the extent of coverage can differ by state and policy. It is advisable to review your policy or speak to HBF to confirm the specific coverage available to you.
Can I switch to HBF from another health insurer without losing coverage?
Yes, when transferring from another Australian health insurer, your served waiting periods for equivalent benefits usually carry over to your new HBF policy, provided there is no gap in cover. Make sure to check with HBF for exact details and transfer procedures.
