Guardian Pet Insurance 2025 – Comprehensive Review for Australia
Our expert's opinion on Guardian
Guardian Pet Insurance delivers straightforward, no-excess protection for Australian dogs and cats, offering two core plans—Gold and Platinum—covering up to $12,000 per year, with reimbursement rates set at 75% (Gold) or 80% (Platinum), and an optional wellness add-on for preventive care on Platinum. In a market often defined by excesses and rigid plan structures, Guardian's no-excess approach and uniform limits make it more flexible for predictable out-of-pocket costs, though annual limits are modest compared to some premium competitors. Guardian best suits owners of young to middle-aged pets seeking high reimbursement rates, no excess, and simple plan choices, especially those valuing low ongoing costs over unlimited annual caps. The policy is underwritten by PetSure, an established Australian pet insurer with high annual premium volumes and industry-standard claims handling via a secure digital portal, but lacks specific customer satisfaction ratings for pet insurance (no Trustpilot scores for this segment); GapOnly support is provided, and average claim turnarounds are typically within 10–30 business days. Routine care, emergency boarding, and overseas vet cover offer additional peace of mind.
- ✅No excess on any policy
- ✅Simple plan structure: two tiers, clear limits
- ✅Up to 80% vet bill reimbursement (Platinum)
- ✅Optional routine care cover (Platinum)
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if criteria met)
- ✅Emergency boarding and overseas travel cover
- ✅GapOnly claims at participating vets
- ❌No unlimited annual benefit options
- ❌Pre-existing conditions and dental illnesses excluded (except oral tumours)
- ❌No public Trustpilot score for pet insurance policies
- ❌Routine care only with Platinum
- ❌Annual limit ($12,000) lower than some premium competitors
- ✅No excess on any policy
- ✅Simple plan structure: two tiers, clear limits
- ✅Up to 80% vet bill reimbursement (Platinum)
- ✅Optional routine care cover (Platinum)
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if criteria met)
- ✅Emergency boarding and overseas travel cover
- ✅GapOnly claims at participating vets
Our expert's opinion on Guardian
ScoreGuardian Pet Insurance delivers straightforward, no-excess protection for Australian dogs and cats, offering two core plans—Gold and Platinum—covering up to $12,000 per year, with reimbursement rates set at 75% (Gold) or 80% (Platinum), and an optional wellness add-on for preventive care on Platinum. In a market often defined by excesses and rigid plan structures, Guardian's no-excess approach and uniform limits make it more flexible for predictable out-of-pocket costs, though annual limits are modest compared to some premium competitors. Guardian best suits owners of young to middle-aged pets seeking high reimbursement rates, no excess, and simple plan choices, especially those valuing low ongoing costs over unlimited annual caps. The policy is underwritten by PetSure, an established Australian pet insurer with high annual premium volumes and industry-standard claims handling via a secure digital portal, but lacks specific customer satisfaction ratings for pet insurance (no Trustpilot scores for this segment); GapOnly support is provided, and average claim turnarounds are typically within 10–30 business days. Routine care, emergency boarding, and overseas vet cover offer additional peace of mind.
- ✅No excess on any policy
- ✅Simple plan structure: two tiers, clear limits
- ✅Up to 80% vet bill reimbursement (Platinum)
- ✅Optional routine care cover (Platinum)
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if criteria met)
- ✅Emergency boarding and overseas travel cover
- ✅GapOnly claims at participating vets
- ❌No unlimited annual benefit options
- ❌Pre-existing conditions and dental illnesses excluded (except oral tumours)
- ❌No public Trustpilot score for pet insurance policies
- ❌Routine care only with Platinum
- ❌Annual limit ($12,000) lower than some premium competitors
- ✅No excess on any policy
- ✅Simple plan structure: two tiers, clear limits
- ✅Up to 80% vet bill reimbursement (Platinum)
- ✅Optional routine care cover (Platinum)
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if criteria met)
- ✅Emergency boarding and overseas travel cover
- ✅GapOnly claims at participating vets
- The Guarantees Guardian
- Guardian Exclusions
- The Prices Guardian
- Assistance Guardian
- Customer Reviews of the Guardian
- How to Contact The Guardian
- FAQ
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and costs of insurance policies available in Australia each year, ensuring you get reliable and impartial insights. Thanks to this thorough approach, hundreds of thousands of Australians trust us every month to help them make their most important financial decisions.
The Guarantees Guardian
Guardian offers Gold and Platinum plans with 75% to 80% reimbursement of eligible vet costs, a $12,000 annual limit, and no deductible regardless of the formula. Both tiers cover accident and illness care for dogs and cats, with Platinum allowing an optional Routine Care add-on for key preventive treatments, and essential euthanasia and overseas travel (NZ/Norfolk) included under core benefits. Key strengths include no per-claim or annual excess, competitive annual caps, a 30-day illness waiting period, and the ability to access lifetime renewal if continuously covered. However, dental care is not covered unless the Routine Care extra is selected on Platinum, and notable exclusions include pre-existing, hereditary (if prior signs), and routine or elective care unless specifically opted in. The plan stands out for simplicity and broad core coverage, but its lack of dental by default or comprehensive wellness coverage—except as an extra—can be limiting for pets prone to chronic dental or preventive health needs.
Compare Guardian's pet insurance plans below to choose the best fit for your needs.
| Name of coverage | Gold plan | Platinum plan |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Mid-range, no excess, illness + accident | Premium, no excess, illness + accident, Routine Care add-on available |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Accidental injury and illness | Accidental injury and illness |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 75% | 80% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $12,000 per policy year | $12,000 per policy year |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $0 (no excess) | $0 (no excess) |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | 8 weeks to under 9 years | 8 weeks to under 9 years |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Not required, but pre-existing conditions excluded | Not required, but pre-existing conditions excluded |
| Waiting period (illness) | 30 days | 30 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | None (except cruciate: 6 months, waivable by vet) | None (except cruciate: 6 months, waivable by vet) |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ if renewals continuous | ✅ if renewals continuous |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ up to $300 annual sub-limit | ✅ up to $300 annual sub-limit |
| Medications | ✅ (APVMA-approved, as part of eligible treatment) | ✅ (APVMA-approved, as part of eligible treatment) |
| Hospitalization | ✅ (as part of eligible covered event) | ✅ (as part of eligible covered event) |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ (as part of eligible covered event) | ✅ (as part of eligible covered event) |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ (as part of eligible covered event) | ✅ (as part of eligible covered event) |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌ (not covered, except oral tumours) | ❌ (unless Routine Care extra, sub-limits; oral tumours only by default) |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ | ✅ (if Routine Care add-on selected, as per sub-limits) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ | ✅ (if Routine Care add-on selected, as per Certificate) |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ✅ New Zealand/Norfolk Island, ≤ 60 days per trip | ✅ New Zealand/Norfolk Island, ≤ 60 days per trip |
| Civil liability | ❌ (not included) | ❌ (not included) |
| Euthanasia | ✅ (if medically necessary, covered event) | ✅ (if medically necessary, covered event) |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ up to $1,000 annual sub-limit | ✅ up to $1,000 annual sub-limit |
Important Policy Details
• Routine Care is only available as an optional extra with the Platinum plan and covers only specified items with annual sub-limits.
• Cruciate ligament claims are subject to a 6-month waiting period, waivable by a vet check form.
• There is no excess on any claim, and annual sub-limits apply for some benefits (e.g., consultations, emergency boarding, cruciate ligament, tick paralysis).
• No coverage for pre-existing conditions, dental (except tumours or if add-on selected), or non-essential and elective treatments.
Guardian Exclusions
The Guardian policy exclusions are broad and largely align with industry standards, notably excluding pre-existing, bilateral, and chronic conditions unless classed as “temporary” with a symptom-free period of over 18 months.
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All dental procedures and disease (apart from oral tumours), most routine/preventive care (unless you purchase the Routine Care option for Platinum), and alternative/behavioural therapies are excluded, as are medications not approved by the APVMA.
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Uncommon among competitors, genetic/chromosome testing, experimental procedures, cosmetic surgeries, and most elective or auxiliary costs (ambulance, travel, non-essential hospitalisation) are also systematically excluded.
Notably, tick paralysis, cruciate ligament, and some costly conditions are capped by strict annual or per-incident sub-limits, and voluntary euthanasia or losses associated with biosecurity-related events are not covered.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions (including chronic, bilateral, related) • Dental disease/treatment (except oral tumours) • Non-APVMA approved medication • Hereditary/congenital if any sign pre-policy or during waiting period • Tick paralysis (capped sub-limit) • Cruciate ligament (capped sub-limit) • Cancer/illness during waiting periods |
| Routine & Preventive care | • Desexing (except due to illness) • Vaccinations, microchipping, flea/tick/worming • Food, supplements, vitamins • Grooming, bathing, nail/ear care • Dental cleaning/scaling (unless add-on) |
| Alternative & Behavioural | • Homeopathy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy (except if add-on on Platinum) • Behavioural therapies and conditions |
| Surgical & Specialist | • Organ transplants • Artificial limbs/prosthetics • Open heart surgery • Experimental/trial procedures • Extended pre-anaesthetic bloods • 3D printing |
| Breeding & Identification | • Breeding, pregnancy, obstetric costs • Desexing if not medically required • Genetic and chromosome testing |
| Cosmetic/Elective | • Cosmetic surgery/procedures (nail/ear/tail docking, devocalisation, hip/elbow scoring) • Voluntary euthanasia • Non-essential or elective hospitalisation |
| Geographic & Travel | • Treatments/procedures outside AUS/NZ/Norfolk Island • Non-emergency boarding (if owner hospitalised for elective/cosmetic/pregnancy) |
| Administrative/Other | • Consequential or economic loss • Failure to provide reasonable care or gross negligence • Expenses for excluded conditions • Losses related to biosecurity events |
• Dental disease/treatment (except oral tumours)
• Non-APVMA approved medication
• Hereditary/congenital if any sign pre-policy or during waiting period
• Tick paralysis (capped sub-limit)
• Cruciate ligament (capped sub-limit)
• Cancer/illness during waiting periods
• Vaccinations, microchipping, flea/tick/worming
• Food, supplements, vitamins
• Grooming, bathing, nail/ear care
• Dental cleaning/scaling (unless add-on)
• Behavioural therapies and conditions
• Artificial limbs/prosthetics
• Open heart surgery
• Experimental/trial procedures
• Extended pre-anaesthetic bloods
• 3D printing
• Desexing if not medically required
• Genetic and chromosome testing
• Voluntary euthanasia
• Non-essential or elective hospitalisation
• Non-emergency boarding (if owner hospitalised for elective/cosmetic/pregnancy)
• Failure to provide reasonable care or gross negligence
• Expenses for excluded conditions
• Losses related to biosecurity events
The Prices Guardian
Guardian sits in the mid-range of the Australian pet insurance market, balancing solid core coverage with competitive reimbursement rates and no deductible. Its annual limits and sub-limits are in line with most mainstream rivals, and key strengths include lifetime renewal and a straightforward, digitised claim process. The absence of a deductible offers clear budget visibility, but some high-cost categories are either sub-limited or require Platinum add-ons—for example, routine care and some dental procedures. Compared to premium players with extensive wellness or unlimited benefit offers, Guardian is generally more affordable, but less feature-rich. This makes it a solid value choice for pet owners seeking robust, mid-tier protection without premium-level pricing.
Compare Guardian monthly premiums by animal type and age to choose the right fit for your needs.
| Gold plan | Platinum plan | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Small breed dog | N.C. | N.C. |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | N.C. | N.C. |
The Guardian Promo Codes
| Guardian 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.
How much reimbursement can I expect with Guardian insurance?
With Guardian’s Platinum plan, you receive 80% of eligible vet costs reimbursed (after any sub-limits), and there is no deductible—meaning clear, predictable out-of-pocket costs for most treatments.
Allergic Dermatitis Claim Reimbursement
Consultation and treatment for allergic dermatitis
Total vet costs: $180 (includes exam and prescribed medication)
Deductible amount to subtract: $0 (no excess applies)
Amount reimbursable at 80%: $180 × 80% = $144
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $144.
ℹ️ Annual sub-limit applies: a maximum of $300 per year for consultations is reimbursable under this plan.
Cruciate Ligament Repair Reimbursement
Cruciate ligament repair (orthopaedic surgery) Total vet costs: $3,800 (surgery, anaesthesia, hospital care) Deductible already used earlier in the year: $0 (no excess applies at any time) Sub-limit for cruciate ligament claims: $2,600 annually Amount reimbursable at 80%: $2,600 × 80% = $2,080 👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,080. ℹ️ The remaining $1,200 of the bill and 20% co-payment are your responsibility; annual cruciate sub-limit applies for each policy year.
Preventive Care Reimbursement
Preventive care – annual vaccinations (with Routine Care add-on selected) Total vet costs: $95 (core vaccines and health check) Deductible: $0 (no excess applies) Amount reimbursed: Up to the Routine Care sub-limit (typically $75 for vaccinations) 👉 You receive a reimbursement of $75. ℹ️ If the cost exceeds your Routine Care sub-limit, only the maximum is reimbursed—remaining costs are at your expense.
Assistance Guardian
| Assistance Guardian | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service is offered (no Payvet, Petcard, Carecredit, etc. for upfront vet costs). |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No dedicated payment instalment options (monthly premium payment only; no special financing). |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No mobile app cited for policy management or claims; only web claims portal is mentioned. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims are managed digitally through the web portal or by email; online document upload available. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency helpline or teleconsultation with vets is included as a service benefit. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No formal partner veterinary network; claims payable for registered vets only, GapOnly at some clinics. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Cover applies for trips to New Zealand or Norfolk Island, for up to 60 consecutive days per trip. |
Customer Reviews of the Guardian
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | N.C. |
| ProductReview.com.au | N.C. |
| Google Reviews | N.C. |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Guardian for their pets commonly mention:
✅ N.C.
On the negative side:
❌ N.C.
How to Contact The Guardian
| Guardian 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 claims (online portal: portal.petsure.com.au/guardian/login), by email ([email protected]), by post (Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765), or through your vet (electronic submission). Required documents: Completed claim form, paid invoices, itemised vet bill, and relevant vet records. For pre-approvals, contact [email protected] or 1300 132 962. Payment is made by direct deposit to your nominated bank account. Average processing time varies; prompt claims may be processed within several days, depending on documentation. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact customer service by phone (1300 709 431, Mon–Fri 8am–8pm AEST), or email ([email protected]), or write to Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765. |
| To contact assistance | General assistance, policy, and claims: 1300 709 431 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm AEST) or [email protected]. For claims pre-approval: [email protected] or 1300 132 962. |
| To cancel my policy | To cancel, contact Guardian by phone (1300 709 431), email ([email protected]), or post (Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765). Written notice is generally required; provide your policy number, personal details, and reason for cancellation. Check your Product Disclosure Statement for any required notice period and whether pro-rata premium refunds apply. Supporting documents may be requested in some cases (e.g., proof of rehoming, pet death). |
Required documents: Completed claim form, paid invoices, itemised vet bill, and relevant vet records.
For pre-approvals, contact [email protected] or 1300 132 962.
Payment is made by direct deposit to your nominated bank account.
Average processing time varies; prompt claims may be processed within several days, depending on documentation.
For claims pre-approval: [email protected] or 1300 132 962.
Written notice is generally required; provide your policy number, personal details, and reason for cancellation.
Check your Product Disclosure Statement for any required notice period and whether pro-rata premium refunds apply.
Supporting documents may be requested in some cases (e.g., proof of rehoming, pet death).
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Guardian?
Yes, you must pay your vet directly for treatment at the time of service, as Guardian does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system for standard claims. After you have paid, you can submit your claim to Guardian for reimbursement. If your vet participates in the GapOnly programme, you may only pay the gap amount; otherwise, the full invoice is due up front. Always check with your vet before your visit to see if GapOnly is available.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Guardian?
You can cancel your Guardian pet insurance policy by contacting Guardian by phone or email and providing written notice, your policy number, and your personal details. There is no specified minimum notice period, but ensure you allow adequate processing time before your renewal date. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of pet rehoming or death. Any refund of unused premium will be calculated on a pro-rata basis.
What does Guardian pet insurance cover?
Guardian policies cover treatments for accidental injury and illness (Gold and Platinum plans), including surgery, hospitalisation, diagnostic tests, medications, and some specialist care. Specified accident-only plans exist, but more comprehensive cover is available under higher tiers. Routine and preventive care may be included as an optional add-on for Platinum only. Annual benefit limits and sub-limits apply by plan, so always check your schedule.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Pre-existing conditions—any illness, injury, or sign detected before your policy starts or during the stated waiting period—are not covered under Guardian policies. However, temporary conditions that have been completely resolved for at least 18 months may be eligible on review. Submitting your pet’s full veterinary history helps clarify what exclusions apply to your case. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement for further details on eligibility.
Are there waiting periods before my cover begins?
Yes, there is a 30-day waiting period for illnesses and a 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament conditions (which may be waived by vet certification). Accident cover usually begins immediately, except for specified injuries or procedures noted in your policy. Routine care add-ons, if purchased, have no waiting period for preventative treatments. Full terms and waiting periods are set out in your schedule and the Product Disclosure Statement.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Guardian?
Yes, you must pay your vet directly for treatment at the time of service, as Guardian does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system for standard claims. After you have paid, you can submit your claim to Guardian for reimbursement. If your vet participates in the GapOnly programme, you may only pay the gap amount; otherwise, the full invoice is due up front. Always check with your vet before your visit to see if GapOnly is available.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Guardian?
You can cancel your Guardian pet insurance policy by contacting Guardian by phone or email and providing written notice, your policy number, and your personal details. There is no specified minimum notice period, but ensure you allow adequate processing time before your renewal date. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of pet rehoming or death. Any refund of unused premium will be calculated on a pro-rata basis.
What does Guardian pet insurance cover?
Guardian policies cover treatments for accidental injury and illness (Gold and Platinum plans), including surgery, hospitalisation, diagnostic tests, medications, and some specialist care. Specified accident-only plans exist, but more comprehensive cover is available under higher tiers. Routine and preventive care may be included as an optional add-on for Platinum only. Annual benefit limits and sub-limits apply by plan, so always check your schedule.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Pre-existing conditions—any illness, injury, or sign detected before your policy starts or during the stated waiting period—are not covered under Guardian policies. However, temporary conditions that have been completely resolved for at least 18 months may be eligible on review. Submitting your pet’s full veterinary history helps clarify what exclusions apply to your case. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement for further details on eligibility.
Are there waiting periods before my cover begins?
Yes, there is a 30-day waiting period for illnesses and a 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament conditions (which may be waived by vet certification). Accident cover usually begins immediately, except for specified injuries or procedures noted in your policy. Routine care add-ons, if purchased, have no waiting period for preventative treatments. Full terms and waiting periods are set out in your schedule and the Product Disclosure Statement.
