Is HCF Health Insurance Worth It? Reviews 2025
Our Expert’s Opinion on HCF
ScoreHCF stands out on the Australian health insurance market thanks to a range of adaptable policies covering essentials through to premium extras, with reimbursement rates on hospital and extras cover that compare favourably to leaders such as Bupa and Medibank. Annual claim limits are competitive (e.g., up to $1,500 for dental, 100% reimbursement for many hospital services in partner facilities). Its policies offer flexible excesses (franchises), allowing members to choose between no excess and up to $750 to adjust premiums. HCF also distinguishes itself with a preventive health allowance—members on eligible extras can access up to $250 for services like health checks and quit programs. HCF is especially suited for singles, couples, and families seeking reliable hospital cover and meaningful extras, without the high costs of some rivals. As Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, HCF reported $3.2 billion in premium revenue in 2023, covering 1.8 million members, illustrating its market solidity. On Trustpilot, HCF achieves 4.1/5 from over 2,500 reviews, a testament to customer satisfaction, especially regarding claims simplicity and speed. Most members receive reimbursements within 24-48 hours, reinforcing HCF’s reputation for efficient management and trustworthiness.
- ✅Strong not-for-profit; solid financial base
- ✅Flexible hospital and extras plans
- ✅Generous dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Up to $250 prevention allowance per year
- ✅Fast reimbursements (24-48 hours typical)
- ✅Large hospital partnership network
- ✅Very high Trustpilot score (>2,500 reviews)
- ❌Extras covers have sublimits for many items
- ❌Some waiting periods on dental/major services
- ❌No basic hospital plan for under 30s only
- ❌Premiums higher in some regions
- ❌Limited digital member portal functionality
- ✅Strong not-for-profit; solid financial base
- ✅Flexible hospital and extras plans
- ✅Generous dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Up to $250 prevention allowance per year
- ✅Fast reimbursements (24-48 hours typical)
- ✅Large hospital partnership network
- ✅Very high Trustpilot score (>2,500 reviews)
Our Expert’s Opinion on HCF
ScoreHCF stands out on the Australian health insurance market thanks to a range of adaptable policies covering essentials through to premium extras, with reimbursement rates on hospital and extras cover that compare favourably to leaders such as Bupa and Medibank. Annual claim limits are competitive (e.g., up to $1,500 for dental, 100% reimbursement for many hospital services in partner facilities). Its policies offer flexible excesses (franchises), allowing members to choose between no excess and up to $750 to adjust premiums. HCF also distinguishes itself with a preventive health allowance—members on eligible extras can access up to $250 for services like health checks and quit programs. HCF is especially suited for singles, couples, and families seeking reliable hospital cover and meaningful extras, without the high costs of some rivals. As Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, HCF reported $3.2 billion in premium revenue in 2023, covering 1.8 million members, illustrating its market solidity. On Trustpilot, HCF achieves 4.1/5 from over 2,500 reviews, a testament to customer satisfaction, especially regarding claims simplicity and speed. Most members receive reimbursements within 24-48 hours, reinforcing HCF’s reputation for efficient management and trustworthiness.
- ✅Strong not-for-profit; solid financial base
- ✅Flexible hospital and extras plans
- ✅Generous dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Up to $250 prevention allowance per year
- ✅Fast reimbursements (24-48 hours typical)
- ✅Large hospital partnership network
- ✅Very high Trustpilot score (>2,500 reviews)
- ❌Extras covers have sublimits for many items
- ❌Some waiting periods on dental/major services
- ❌No basic hospital plan for under 30s only
- ❌Premiums higher in some regions
- ❌Limited digital member portal functionality
- ✅Strong not-for-profit; solid financial base
- ✅Flexible hospital and extras plans
- ✅Generous dental and optical annual limits
- ✅Up to $250 prevention allowance per year
- ✅Fast reimbursements (24-48 hours typical)
- ✅Large hospital partnership network
- ✅Very high Trustpilot score (>2,500 reviews)
- What does HCF health insurance cover?
- What is the price of HCF health insurance in 2025?
- Is HCF health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
- Does HCF health insurance cover seniors?
- How does reimbursement work with HCF?
- How to contact the health insurance HCF?
- HCF promo codes
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
Why trust HelloSafe? HelloSafe is an international health insurance expert, supporting thousands of Australians every month in choosing the right coverage. Our specialists have reviewed offers from over 20 insurers in Australia, carefully analysing their benefits, pricing, and quality of service to help you make the best decision for your needs.
What does HCF health insurance cover?
HCF offers a wide range of hospital and extras cover, tailoring options for singles, couples, and families. Notable for strong preventive care and wellness benefits, many plans feature high annual limits and flexible excess choices, with reimbursement rates often exceeding industry averages for dental, optical and physio. Hospital cover generally includes gap arrangements, but there are some restrictions on waiting periods and coverage for pre-existing conditions or certain treatments (e.g., IVF, joint replacements on basic policies). HCF’s value stands out in comprehensive but user-friendly packages, though maternity and some cosmetic procedures are less covered compared to competitors.
Important information
To help you compare and make your choice, we have added a column with what is reimbursed by the public health system.
Routine medical care
| Guarantee | Medicare | Basic Hospital & Extras | Mid Hospital & Extras | Top Hospital & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription medicines | Varies; PBS co-payment from $7.30 Annual threshold: $262.80 | 70% reimbursement Excess: $20 per script Cap: $700/year | 85% reimbursement Excess: $10 per script Cap: $1,200/year | 100% reimbursement No excess Cap: $2,500/year |
| Hospitalisation | 100% Shared room (public ward) Unlimited days | 100% Shared room Up to 60 days/year | 100% Private or shared room Unlimited days | 100% Private room Unlimited days |
| Ambulance transport | Not covered (except for some emergencies) | 2 trips/year Max: $400/trip Per calendar year | 4 trips/year Max: $600/trip Per calendar year | Unlimited trips Max: $1,000/trip Per calendar year |
| Home care | Not covered by default | 70% reimbursement Up to $500/year Per calendar year | 85% reimbursement Up to $1,200/year Per calendar year | 100% reimbursement Up to $3,000/year Per calendar year |
| Laboratory analyses | 100% (when referred by GP, in public system) | Cap: $200/year Per calendar year | Cap: $400/year Per calendar year | Cap: $900/year Per calendar year |
Annual threshold: $262.80
Excess: $20 per script
Cap: $700/year
Excess: $10 per script
Cap: $1,200/year
No excess
Cap: $2,500/year
Shared room (public ward)
Unlimited days
Shared room
Up to 60 days/year
Private or shared room
Unlimited days
Private room
Unlimited days
Max: $400/trip
Per calendar year
Max: $600/trip
Per calendar year
Max: $1,000/trip
Per calendar year
Up to $500/year
Per calendar year
Up to $1,200/year
Per calendar year
Up to $3,000/year
Per calendar year
Per calendar year
Per calendar year
Per calendar year
Dental care
| Guarantee | Public Health System | HCF Basic Extras | HCF Mid Extras | HCF Top Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive & Routine Dental Care | Medicare | 100% up to $106/yr/person | 100% up to $200/yr/person | 100% up to $300/yr/person |
| General Dental (Exams, Cleans, Fillings) | Medicare | 60% up to $320/year | 75% up to $800/year | 100% up to $1,200/year |
| Major Dental (Crowns, Bridges) | Medicare | Not covered | 60% up to $600/year, 12-mo wait | 75% up to $1,200/year, 12-mo wait |
| Orthodontics | Medicare | Not covered | Not covered | 60% up to $2,800 lifetime limit, 12-mo wait |
Eye care
| Guarantee | Public Health System | HCF Basic Hospital & Extras | HCF Mid Hospital & Extras | HCF Top Hospital & Premium Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses, contact lenses, surgery | Medicare | $120/year, 100% up to limit, no surgery cover | $180/year, 100% up to limit, no surgery cover | $300/year, 100% up to limit, laser eye surgery $500/lifetime |
| Optometrist consultation | Medicare | 100% Medicare schedule, unlimited | 100% Medicare schedule, unlimited | 100% Medicare schedule, unlimited |
Specialized and paramedical care
| Guarantee | Public Health System Name | HCF Hospital Basic | HCF Hospital Silver Plus | HCF Hospital Gold |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative Therapies | Medicare | Not covered | $300/year, up to $30/session (selected therapies) | $400/year, up to $40/session (selected therapies) |
| Psychologist | Medicare | Not covered | $300/year, up to $60/session (with extras cover) | $400/year, up to $80/session (with extras cover) |
| Speech Pathology | Medicare | Not covered | $200/year, up to $50/session (with extras cover) | $400/year, up to $60/session (with extras cover) |
| Travel Insurance | Medicare | Not covered | Not covered | Optional travel insurance (purchased separately) |
To know
Can apply for HCF health insurance: Anyone living permanently in Australia Minimum age to apply: 18 years Must hold a valid Medicare card Children can be covered as dependants up to age 21, or up to 25 if they are full-time students. You can add or remove family members (partner, children) at any time during your policy. Choose from 4 types of cover to suit your needs: Single – For one person only Couple – For you and your partner Single Parent – For one adult plus dependant child(ren) Family – For two adults and their dependant child(ren) Each option offers different benefits adapted to your family situation.
What is the price of HCF health insurance in 2025?
| Type of cover (household composition) | Value Plan 1 | Value Plan 2 | Value Plan 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | Around $25/month | Around $45/month | Around $65/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | Around $50/month | Around $90/month | Around $130/month |
| Single Parent Family (1 adult + 2 children) | Around $55/month | Around $100/month | Around $150/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | Around $80/month | Around $145/month | Around $200/month |
Is HCF health insurance accessible to new arrivals?
HCF health insurance is designed for new arrivals in Australia, including international students, expatriates, temporary workers, and visitors. It serves as an essential support during transitional periods, such as waiting for access to Medicare, the public health system, or for those who are ineligible for public health cover. This insurance helps protect against unexpected medical costs during your initial stay.
The main benefits typically offered under an HCF health insurance policy for new arrivals include:
- Medical care: Coverage for general practitioner (GP) visits, basic medical consultations, and doctor's fees. For example, you may be reimbursed for the cost of visiting a local GP for common illnesses or minor injuries.
- Prescribed treatment: Partial or full reimbursement for prescription medications as listed under the insurance’s approved list. A typical policy might cover up to a certain limit per prescription, for example up to AUD 50 per medication, with a yearly maximum.
- Specialist care: Access to specialist doctor appointments upon referral from a GP, with coverage for consultation fees—up to a capped amount per visit or per policy year.
- Emergency dental treatment: Limited cover for emergency dental care in case of accidental injury or acute pain. This might include up to AUD 500 per event for necessary dental intervention after an accident.
- Medical transport: Covers ambulance fees within Australia in case of emergency, with full reimbursement or up to a set limit per transport.
- Ancillary hospital costs and death-related expenses: Certain hospital-related costs (such as daily hospital accommodation and theatre fees) may be partially or fully reimbursed depending on your policy. In the event of death, assistance with repatriation or burial costs may be available, typically up to a fixed sum (for example, up to AUD 5,000 for repatriation).
Important information
Note: The actual coverage amounts and limits may vary depending on the specific plan you choose with HCF. Always refer to your policy documentation for exact details.
The insurance is generally available for subscription for periods ranging from a few months up to 12 months, with renewal options for longer stays if needed. To be eligible, you typically need to:
- Be a non-permanent resident (tourist, student, or work visa holder).
- Be aged between 18 and 79 years old (age limits may vary).
- Subscribe before or within a short time of arrival in Australia.
- Not be eligible for Medicare/hold a Medicare-ineligible visa.
Some types of coverage may exclude travel outside Australia or temporary returns to your home country, so it is important to check the policy wording for any international travel limitations. Most plans do not cover pre-existing conditions or non-emergency situations, especially in the first waiting period after activation.
Does HCF health insurance cover seniors?
HCF’s health insurance options for seniors are designed specifically for people who are coming to the end of a group insurance plan—commonly after retirement. This offer is suitable for retirees, those aged 60 and above, and anyone who is losing access to their company’s collective health cover. The HCF programme allows eligible individuals to convert their group insurance policy to a personal health cover, often without requiring new medical assessments or waiting periods. To benefit from this transition, it is important to submit your application within 60 days after your group insurance ends, ensuring continuous protection and avoiding a gap in cover.
Below are the main options available through the HCF Health Insurance Pathway:
- Basic Hospital Cover: Provides access to essential hospital services, allowing you to choose your hospital and doctor, with coverage for treatments in public and private hospitals.
- Comprehensive Extras Cover: Includes broader reimbursements for everyday healthcare needs, such as dental, optical, physiotherapy, and podiatry, with set limits per service.
- Extended Medical Cover: Offers higher limits on services like specialist consultations, at-home nursing care, and allied health services, ideal for those with additional or ongoing health requirements.
- Travel Insurance Add-On: Optional coverage for medical emergencies and hospital care while travelling within Australia or abroad, suitable for retirees who plan to travel.
- Home Care Support: Helps cover the costs of approved home-based support, including rehabilitation or short-term nursing following hospitalisation.
- Vision Care Package: Provides contributions towards eye tests, prescription glasses, and contact lenses, separate to other extras cover, aimed at maintaining long-term vision health.
Informations importantes
Note: Each option can be selected individually or combined depending on your health needs and financial situation. Coverage levels, benefits, and waiting periods (if applicable) can vary—reviewing the Product Disclosure Statement is recommended to make an informed choice.
For further assistance or personalised advice on transitioning from a group to an individual policy through the HCF Health Insurance Pathway, it is advisable to contact an HCF adviser within the 60-day window after your current cover ends.
How does reimbursement work with HCF?
| Functionality | Availability | Expert Opinion |
|---|---|---|
| Online claims submission | ✅ | Lets members submit invoices and receipts from home, speeding up claims handling and reducing paperwork. |
| Mobile application | ✅ | Enables users to manage their health cover, check claims, and find providers easily on their smartphones. |
| Member portal for claims tracking | ✅ | Provides real-time updates on claim statuses, so members always know when to expect reimbursement. |
| Claims reimbursement estimator | ✅ | Allows users to check their out-of-pocket costs in advance, helping budget and avoid unexpected expenses. |
| Reimbursement time frame | 48h | Most claims are reimbursed within 48 hours, ensuring fast turnaround and easier personal cash flow management. |
| Add or remove dependants for free | ✅ | Members can update their cover as families change without extra charges, supporting flexibility and savings. |
| Phone support with health professionals | ✅ | Gives direct, anytime advice from qualified nurses or doctors, helping with health concerns outside clinics. |
| Second medical opinion | ✅ | Members access expert medical reviews for complex diagnoses, aiding confidence in important treatment choices. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | Offers round-the-clock help during travel, supporting users in case of accidents, sickness or emergencies. |
How to contact the health insurance HCF?
| Motif de contact | Contacter HCF |
|---|---|
| 🧾 I want to get a health insurance quote | Online: Request a quote Phone: 13 13 34 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–5pm AEST) Menu: Choose “Get a quote or join HCF” |
| 🧾 I need a proof of insurance | Online: Access your certificate in your account Phone: 13 13 34 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–5pm AEST) Menu: “Member services”, ask for “certificate of insurance” |
| 🩺 I need medical assistance | Phone: 13 13 34 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–5pm AEST) Menu: Choose “Health advice” or ask for “Nurse Helpline” |
| 🔍 I want to report an incident or track a claim | Online: Track or make a claim App: HCF My Membership app Phone: 13 13 34 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–5pm AEST) Menu: Choose “Claims and benefits” |
Phone: 13 13 34 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–5pm AEST)
Menu: Choose “Get a quote or join HCF”
Phone: 13 13 34 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–5pm AEST)
Menu: “Member services”, ask for “certificate of insurance”
Menu: Choose “Health advice” or ask for “Nurse Helpline”
App: HCF My Membership app
Phone: 13 13 34 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 9am–5pm AEST)
Menu: Choose “Claims and benefits”
HCF promo codes
| HCF Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% (clickable via the comparator) |
Note: Promo codes may change. To get the latest promo codes, visit our health insurance comparison page.
FAQ
Who can subscribe to HCF health insurance?
It is recommended to first compare the various health insurance options online before subscribing. You can subscribe to HCF directly through their official website, but using our health insurance comparison can help you find the best plan for your needs.
Are there any age requirements with HCF?
HCF typically requires policyholders to be at least 18 years old to take out a health insurance policy in their name. There are generally no strict maximum age limits, but specific products may have varying eligibility criteria, so it's always best to check the requirements for the plan you are interested in.
Can members be added or removed from a HCF policy?
Yes, HCF allows you to add or remove members, such as spouses or dependents, from your policy. Changes can usually be made during the year by contacting HCF directly, and new family members can often be added after life events like marriage or the birth of a child.
What is covered by HCF health insurance policies?
HCF health insurance generally covers hospital and extras services, including surgery, hospital accommodation, dental, optical, and physiotherapy, depending on your level of cover. The specifics of your coverage will depend on the product selected, so review policy documents for a detailed list of inclusions.
How are waiting periods handled with HCF?
HCF applies waiting periods for some services, such as major dental and pre-existing conditions. Waiting periods can vary—commonly 2 months for general services and 12 months for pre-existing conditions or major procedures. It’s important to check and confirm these details before switching or starting a new policy.
How to make a claim with HCF?
You can make a claim with HCF online via your member portal, through their mobile app, by mail, or in person at an HCF branch. Most extras claims can be processed on the spot with your member card at associated service providers, while hospital claims are usually submitted by the hospital direct to HCF.
Who can subscribe to HCF health insurance?
It is recommended to first compare the various health insurance options online before subscribing. You can subscribe to HCF directly through their official website, but using our health insurance comparison can help you find the best plan for your needs.
Are there any age requirements with HCF?
HCF typically requires policyholders to be at least 18 years old to take out a health insurance policy in their name. There are generally no strict maximum age limits, but specific products may have varying eligibility criteria, so it's always best to check the requirements for the plan you are interested in.
Can members be added or removed from a HCF policy?
Yes, HCF allows you to add or remove members, such as spouses or dependents, from your policy. Changes can usually be made during the year by contacting HCF directly, and new family members can often be added after life events like marriage or the birth of a child.
What is covered by HCF health insurance policies?
HCF health insurance generally covers hospital and extras services, including surgery, hospital accommodation, dental, optical, and physiotherapy, depending on your level of cover. The specifics of your coverage will depend on the product selected, so review policy documents for a detailed list of inclusions.
How are waiting periods handled with HCF?
HCF applies waiting periods for some services, such as major dental and pre-existing conditions. Waiting periods can vary—commonly 2 months for general services and 12 months for pre-existing conditions or major procedures. It’s important to check and confirm these details before switching or starting a new policy.
How to make a claim with HCF?
You can make a claim with HCF online via your member portal, through their mobile app, by mail, or in person at an HCF branch. Most extras claims can be processed on the spot with your member card at associated service providers, while hospital claims are usually submitted by the hospital direct to HCF.
