Budget Direct Pet Insurance 2025: In-Depth Aussie Review
Our expert's opinion on Budget Direct
Budget Direct is a significant player in the Australian pet insurance market, providing three straightforward plans—Essential, Comprehensive, and Plus—all with 80% reimbursement rates and annual claim limits ranging from $12,000 to $25,000, plus adjustable excess options of $100 or $200 per condition.
Compared to leading competitors, Budget Direct positions itself as a value-driven option with broad injury and illness cover but limited by relatively strict exclusions, modest wellness allowances ($75 or $150 optional on higher tiers), and no high-reimbursement or unlimited coverage options.
This insurer may be best matched for owners of younger pets who prefer predictable annual limits, basic wellness cover, and can accept some sub-limits on high-cost conditions, as well as budget-conscious policyholders or owners of indoor animals.
Underwritten by Auto & General Insurance Company Limited (premium revenue over $1bn annually in AU, across all products), Budget Direct is financially stable, but customer feedback skews very negative with a Trustpilot rating of 1.2/5 from 450 reviews, citing frequent claim denials and slow responses; claim reimbursements often reportedly take several weeks.
- ✅Three clear cover levels for varied needs
- ✅80% reimbursement for all eligible claims
- ✅High annual claim limits up to $25,000
- ✅Optional wellness cover up to $150/year
- ✅Choice of $100 or $200 excess
- ✅Covers most accident and illness scenarios
- ✅Adjustable cover, excess at renewal
- ❌Extensive exclusions and sub-limits on key conditions
- ❌Routine wellness only as add-on (not on Essential)
- ❌No dental, behavioural, or comprehensive alternative therapy cover
- ❌Very poor customer satisfaction (Trustpilot 1.2/5, 450 reviews)
- ❌Claim processing often delayed, no direct vet payment
Our expert's opinion on Budget Direct
- ✅Three clear cover levels for varied needs
- ✅80% reimbursement for all eligible claims
- ✅High annual claim limits up to $25,000
- ✅Optional wellness cover up to $150/year
- ✅Choice of $100 or $200 excess
- ✅Covers most accident and illness scenarios
- ✅Adjustable cover, excess at renewal
- ❌Extensive exclusions and sub-limits on key conditions
- ❌Routine wellness only as add-on (not on Essential)
- ❌No dental, behavioural, or comprehensive alternative therapy cover
- ❌Very poor customer satisfaction (Trustpilot 1.2/5, 450 reviews)
- ❌Claim processing often delayed, no direct vet payment
Score- ✅Three clear cover levels for varied needs
- ✅80% reimbursement for all eligible claims
- ✅High annual claim limits up to $25,000
- ✅Optional wellness cover up to $150/year
- ✅Choice of $100 or $200 excess
- ✅Covers most accident and illness scenarios
- ✅Adjustable cover, excess at renewal
Compared to leading competitors, Budget Direct positions itself as a value-driven option with broad injury and illness cover but limited by relatively strict exclusions, modest wellness allowances ($75 or $150 optional on higher tiers), and no high-reimbursement or unlimited coverage options.
This insurer may be best matched for owners of younger pets who prefer predictable annual limits, basic wellness cover, and can accept some sub-limits on high-cost conditions, as well as budget-conscious policyholders or owners of indoor animals.
Underwritten by Auto & General Insurance Company Limited (premium revenue over $1bn annually in AU, across all products), Budget Direct is financially stable, but customer feedback skews very negative with a Trustpilot rating of 1.2/5 from 450 reviews, citing frequent claim denials and slow responses; claim reimbursements often reportedly take several weeks.
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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the Australian market every year to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, hundreds of thousands of Australians trust us each month to help guide them through their most important financial decisions.
Budget Direct Guarantees
To find the most competitive offer, consider comparing Budget Direct’s three tiers with other pet insurance plans.
Budget Direct provides three clear pet insurance plans—Essential, Comprehensive, and Plus—covering both accidents and illnesses, all with 80% reimbursement and a choice of $100 or $200 excess per unrelated condition. Comprehensive and Plus plans uniquely allow adding Routine Care for fixed annual wellness benefits, while the annual limits scale from $12,000 (Essential) up to $25,000 (Plus) and sub-limits are set for high-cost conditions. A key strength is the flexible excess and the ability to select any registered Australian vet without network restrictions, and policies can be continued for life if renewed without gaps. However, significant exclusions apply—including dental (except for accidental injury), no cover for behavioural/alternative treatments, and no international or civil liability protection—while reimbursements remain capped by sub-limits irrespective of plan. Notably, Budget Direct does not cover pre-existing or bilateral conditions, and most routine/preventive care is excluded unless the extra package is purchased for higher-tier plans.
| Name of coverage | Essential | Comprehensive | Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Entry-level accident/illness cover | Mid-range with wellness add-on option | Premium with highest limits, optional Routine Care |
| Type of coverage | Accident and illness | Accident and illness | Accident and illness |
| Animals covered | Dogs, cats | Dogs, cats | Dogs, cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% | 80% | 80% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $12,000 | $15,000 | $25,000 |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $100 or $200 per unrelated condition | $100 or $200 per unrelated condition | $100 or $200 per unrelated condition |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | From 8 weeks; no new cover from 9+ years | From 8 weeks; no new cover from 9+ years | From 8 weeks; no new cover from 9+ years |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 2 days | 2 days | 2 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ (continuous renewal without break) | ✅ (continuous renewal without break) | ✅ (continuous renewal without break) |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Medications | ✅ Covered where related to insured treatment | ✅ Covered where related to insured treatment | ✅ Covered where related to insured treatment |
| Hospitalization | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌ Only for accidental injury, sub-limit applies | ❌ Only for accidental injury, sub-limit applies | ❌ Only for accidental injury, sub-limit applies |
| Preventive care package (vax, desex, microchip) | ❌ | ✅ Optional: $75 or $150/yr addition | ✅ Optional: $75 or $150/yr addition |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture) | ❌ | ✅ via Routine Care, not for injury/illness | ✅ via Routine Care, not for injury/illness |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ When humane and medically required | ✅ When humane and medically required | ✅ When humane and medically required |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ Only if directly related to eligible claim | ✅ Only if directly related to eligible claim | ✅ Only if directly related to eligible claim |
Important Information Regarding Claims and Coverage
Routine Care is only claimable under Comprehensive and Plus and covers fixed items to annual limits—no waiting period or excess applies to these items.
Cruciate ligament conditions have a 6-month waiting period for all plans.
Most alternative therapies are only reimbursed if not related to illness/injury and if Routine Care is purchased.
Claims must be made by the member (no direct vet pay); you may use any registered vet in Australia.
Budget Direct Exclusions
Budget Direct’s pet insurance exclusions are notably comprehensive and strictly enforced, especially for pre-existing conditions and breed-specific vulnerabilities. Dental care is excluded except in the case of direct accidental injury, so routine cleaning and most dental illnesses will not be reimbursed, which differs from some competitors with broader dental cover. All behavioural issues, alternative therapies, cosmetic, elective and routine treatments (unless included with Routine Care) are also excluded as standard. Cover for repeated preventable incidents, such as ingestion of foreign bodies or toxin exposure, is restricted to two claims per year, after which further cases are not covered—a rarely seen limitation. Travel, loss, or injury outside Australia, and costs related to commercial, breeding, or working pets, are systematically excluded, as are unlicensed/vet treatments and any claims arising from policyholder negligence.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing and bilateral conditions • Dental (unless from accidental injury) • Hereditary and breed-specific illness if pre-policy • Behavioural conditions and medication • Experimental and alternative therapies (unless under Routine Care and for non-injury/illness) • Cosmetic, elective, routine treatments • Tick paralysis, cruciate, snake, orthopaedic sub-limits apply • More than two claims per year for repeated preventable problems |
| Geographic exclusions | • Treatment or claims outside Australia • Travelling, lost, or stolen pets not covered • Quarantine, import/export, or transport not covered |
| Identification & usage exclusions | • Pets used for commercial, racing, working, or breeding purposes (except guide/assistance dogs) • Claims for animals not meeting specified age/breed criteria • Treatment at unregistered veterinary facilities or by policyholder themselves if a vet |
| Claim & compliance exclusions | • Owner negligence, fraud, dishonesty or animal welfare breaches • More than two preventable incidents per year • Claims for unlicensed medication or overtreatment • Consequential loss, penalties, surcharges (unless emergency) |
| Other exclusions | • Administration fees and non-essential euthanasia, burial, cremation, autopsy • Undiagnosed conditions if symptoms align with exclusions • Claims not submitted as required per PDS requirements |
• Dental (unless from accidental injury)
• Hereditary and breed-specific illness if pre-policy
• Behavioural conditions and medication
• Experimental and alternative therapies (unless under Routine Care and for non-injury/illness)
• Cosmetic, elective, routine treatments
• Tick paralysis, cruciate, snake, orthopaedic sub-limits apply
• More than two claims per year for repeated preventable problems
• Travelling, lost, or stolen pets not covered
• Quarantine, import/export, or transport not covered
• Claims for animals not meeting specified age/breed criteria
• Treatment at unregistered veterinary facilities or by policyholder themselves if a vet
• More than two preventable incidents per year
• Claims for unlicensed medication or overtreatment
• Consequential loss, penalties, surcharges (unless emergency)
• Undiagnosed conditions if symptoms align with exclusions
• Claims not submitted as required per PDS requirements
Budget Direct Prices
Budget Direct occupies a competitive yet budget-oriented position in the Australian pet insurance market, with its Essential, Comprehensive, and Plus plans generally costing less than premium insurers for similar annual benefit limits.
Reimbursement is set at 80%, which is standard for the market, but high-cost items such as dental and alternative therapies are narrowly covered or fully excluded (unless a separate Routine Care add-on is purchased), keeping costs low.
As a fully digital pure player, Budget Direct leverages online claims and policy management to streamline processes, helping reduce administrative expenses and premiums.
Out-of-pocket costs are controlled with customisable excesses; however, the limitations on reimbursed treatments and strict sub-limits reflect a focus on affordability over comprehensiveness.
Budget Direct is thus best suited for pet owners looking for straightforward, affordable protection rather than the broadest coverage or premium service.
Compare Budget Direct’s plans below to find the price and coverage level that suits your pet best.
| Essential Plan | Comprehensive Plan | Plus Plan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $16/month | $22/month | $29/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $29/month | $36/month | $47/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $21/month | $28/month | $38/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $26/month | $37/month | $51/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $38/month | $51/month | $69/month |
Budget Direct Promo Codes
| Budget Direct Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
What reimbursement amount can I expect from Budget Direct?
With Budget Direct Plus, you’re reimbursed up to 80% of eligible vet bills after your selected excess—so your out-of-pocket cost is much lower versus paying everything yourself.
Cruciate Ligament Surgery (Dog) Claim Example
Total vet costs: $3,500
Deductible (excess): $100 (for the first unrelated condition this period)
Amount claimable after excess: $3,500 – $100 = $3,400
Reimbursement at 80%: $3,400 × 80% = $2,720
👉 You receive $2,720; your out-of-pocket cost is $780.
ℹ️ The excess applies per unrelated condition per period. Annual benefit and sub-limit for this surgery: $3,500.
Tick Paralysis Treatment Cost Breakdown (Cat)
Total vet costs: $2,500
Deductible (excess): $100
Amount claimable after excess: $2,400
Reimbursement at 80%: $2,400 × 80% = $1,920
👉 You receive $1,920; your out-of-pocket expense is $580.
ℹ️ Tick paralysis cover is capped at $3,000 per year on the Plus plan. The excess applies once per unrelated condition.
Preventive Care: Vaccinations and Annual Health Check (Dog)
Total preventive care cost: $260 (includes exam, core vaccinations, flea/tick treatment)
Routine Care annual limit: $150 (Plus plan with Routine Care add-on)
👉 You’re reimbursed $150 towards these preventive costs; $110 remains as your expense.
ℹ️ Routine Care has no waiting period or excess and can be used on specific vet listed services only.
Budget Direct Assistance
| Assistance Budget Direct | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | N.C. Policyholders must pay the vet first and submit a claim for reimbursement; no Payvet or similar. |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Monthly premium payments are offered at no extra cost; choose annual or monthly billing on sign-up. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. No Budget Direct mobile app for pet insurance; policy managed via website or contact centre. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be lodged online or by email; uploads for invoices and supporting documents supported. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | N.C. No 24/7 emergency vet phone line or teleconsultation service is available for pet insurance holders. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | N.C. Customers can use any registered vet in Australia; no formal partner network or negotiated pricing. |
| Coverage abroad | ❌ | N.C. Insurance is valid only for treatment by registered vets within Australia. |
Customer Reviews of Budget Direct
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.2 / 5 (450 reviews, all products) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Budget Direct pet insurance sometimes mention:
- A convenient process for submitting claims online or by email.
- The option to pay premiums monthly at no extra cost.
On the negative side:
- A very high frequency of claim denials, often due to pre-existing conditions, wear and tear, or policy interpretation.
- A slow, unresponsive, or unsatisfactory customer service experience, with long response times and communication difficulties.
- Problems with policy cancellations and recurrent charges after policy termination.
- Persistent delays in claim resolution, sometimes lasting several months.
- A lack of pet-specific positive feedback, with many dissatisfied customers moving to other insurers due to service and claim issues.
How to Contact Budget Direct
| Budget Direct Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit your claim form and vet invoice via email to [email protected], by post to PO Box 342, Toowong QLD 4066, or via the online portal. Attach all invoices, itemised vet receipts, and any supporting medical records. Payment will be made to your nominated bank account; average processing time varies but can take several weeks. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Call 1800 931 664 (Mon–Fri 8am–5pm AEST) or email [email protected] with your policy number and request. Certificates can also be requested by post at Auto & General Insurance Company Limited, PO Box 342, Toowong QLD 4066. |
| To contact assistance | Reach customer service at 1800 931 664 (Mon–Fri 8am–5pm AEST), email [email protected], or write to PO Box 342, Toowong QLD 4066. |
| To cancel my policy | Contact 1800 931 664 or email [email protected]. You may also write to PO Box 342, Toowong QLD 4066. State your full name, policy number, and requested cancellation date. Notice period requirements depend on policy terms; supporting ID or written confirmation may be requested. Refunds are processed to your nominated account if eligible. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Budget Direct?
Yes, you must pay the vet directly for all eligible treatments at the time of service. Budget Direct does not offer a direct payment or third-party payment option to your vet. After paying the invoice, you can submit your claim for reimbursement through their online portal, by email, or by post. The reimbursement is then paid to your nominated bank account once the claim is approved. Always keep your original invoices and any supporting documents to submit with your claim.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Budget Direct?
To cancel your policy, contact Budget Direct by phone or email, provide your policy details, and confirm your request in writing. A standard notice period may apply based on your policy terms, and you may be asked for supporting ID or proof of authority. Cancellation requests can be emailed to [email protected] or managed via phone at 1800 931 664. Any eligible refund of premium for the unused portion will be processed according to their terms. Written confirmation of cancellation is sent once the request has been processed.
What conditions and treatments are excluded from Budget Direct pet insurance?
The policy does not cover any pre-existing conditions, routine or preventative care (such as vaccinations or regular check-ups), behavioural issues, or elective/cosmetic procedures. There are also exclusions for hereditary conditions with pre-onset symptoms, and dental care unless it directly results from accidental injury. Experimental or unapproved treatments and costs outside Australia are not covered. Always check the full list of exclusions in the Product Disclosure Statement to understand the limitations.
What are the waiting periods for claims under Budget Direct pet insurance?
There is a 2-day waiting period for accidental injuries and a 30-day waiting period for illnesses, including most medical conditions. Certain conditions such as cruciate ligament injuries have a 6-month waiting period, while tick paralysis, and snake bite cover start after 30 and 2 days respectively. Optional Routine Care (where available) does not have any waiting period. The waiting period applies from your policy start date or when cover is added.
Can I choose any veterinarian, and is emergency treatment included?
Yes, you can use any registered veterinarian in Australia for your pet’s treatment. Emergency treatment is covered as long as it falls within the eligible conditions and policy limits, and you have paid the vet directly. Be sure that all services are provided by a licensed vet, as treatments carried out by unregistered providers are not covered. In emergencies, submit your claim with all supporting invoices and reports as soon as practical. Direct vet payment is not available, so always retain itemised invoices.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Budget Direct?
Yes, you must pay the vet directly for all eligible treatments at the time of service. Budget Direct does not offer a direct payment or third-party payment option to your vet. After paying the invoice, you can submit your claim for reimbursement through their online portal, by email, or by post. The reimbursement is then paid to your nominated bank account once the claim is approved. Always keep your original invoices and any supporting documents to submit with your claim.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Budget Direct?
To cancel your policy, contact Budget Direct by phone or email, provide your policy details, and confirm your request in writing. A standard notice period may apply based on your policy terms, and you may be asked for supporting ID or proof of authority. Cancellation requests can be emailed to [email protected] or managed via phone at 1800 931 664. Any eligible refund of premium for the unused portion will be processed according to their terms. Written confirmation of cancellation is sent once the request has been processed.
What conditions and treatments are excluded from Budget Direct pet insurance?
The policy does not cover any pre-existing conditions, routine or preventative care (such as vaccinations or regular check-ups), behavioural issues, or elective/cosmetic procedures. There are also exclusions for hereditary conditions with pre-onset symptoms, and dental care unless it directly results from accidental injury. Experimental or unapproved treatments and costs outside Australia are not covered. Always check the full list of exclusions in the Product Disclosure Statement to understand the limitations.
What are the waiting periods for claims under Budget Direct pet insurance?
There is a 2-day waiting period for accidental injuries and a 30-day waiting period for illnesses, including most medical conditions. Certain conditions such as cruciate ligament injuries have a 6-month waiting period, while tick paralysis, and snake bite cover start after 30 and 2 days respectively. Optional Routine Care (where available) does not have any waiting period. The waiting period applies from your policy start date or when cover is added.
Can I choose any veterinarian, and is emergency treatment included?
Yes, you can use any registered veterinarian in Australia for your pet’s treatment. Emergency treatment is covered as long as it falls within the eligible conditions and policy limits, and you have paid the vet directly. Be sure that all services are provided by a licensed vet, as treatments carried out by unregistered providers are not covered. In emergencies, submit your claim with all supporting invoices and reports as soon as practical. Direct vet payment is not available, so always retain itemised invoices.
