RAC Pet Insurance 2025: Comprehensive Review, Benefits & What to Expect
Our expert's opinion on RAC
RAC Pet Insurance offers a straightforward policy for cats and dogs, with 80% reimbursement of eligible vet costs and an annual cap of $12,000, plus a single optional add-on (Tender Loving Care) for selected routine and preventative treatments. Its coverage structure is simple but relatively inflexible compared to market leaders like Knose or Petsy, offering only one core plan, moderate annual limits, and a per-condition excess, with a minor $100/year wellness allowance if the TLC option is purchased. Pricing transparency is limited, but policy design places RAC at the mid-tier of the market—generally more affordable than comprehensive digital-first insurers, but lacking competitive extras and digital convenience. RAC Pet Insurance is best suited to owners of young to middle-aged pets seeking solid core coverage, especially those who do not require broad wellness or specialist add-ons and who accept restrictive excess and exclusion policies. The policy is underwritten by RACQ, with a moderate financial scale in the Australian insurance landscape and online claims available, but lacks robust customer support features; the most recent customer reviews are mixed, reflecting an average 2.5 out of 5 from 74 ProductReview.com.au ratings, with some concerns over renewal pricing, pre-existing exclusions, and inconsistent claims speed (some as prompt, others delayed up to several weeks).
- ✅80% reimbursement on eligible vet bills
- ✅$12,000 annual limit across most claim types
- ✅Optional TLC add-on for routine care up to $100/year
- ✅Waiver possible for treatable pre-existing conditions
- ✅Covers travel to New Zealand and Norfolk Island
- ✅Broad emergency boarding included
- ✅Online claims submission available
- ❌Single core plan with limited flexibility
- ❌$100 TLC annual limit much lower than competitors
- ❌Excess applies per separate condition per year
- ❌Key exclusions: dental, hereditary conditions, ongoing illnesses
- ❌Average customer satisfaction only 2.5/5 (ProductReview, 74+ reviews)
Score- ✅80% reimbursement on eligible vet bills
- ✅$12,000 annual limit across most claim types
- ✅Optional TLC add-on for routine care up to $100/year
- ✅Waiver possible for treatable pre-existing conditions
- ✅Covers travel to New Zealand and Norfolk Island
- ✅Broad emergency boarding included
- ✅Online claims submission available
Our expert's opinion on RAC
- ✅80% reimbursement on eligible vet bills
- ✅$12,000 annual limit across most claim types
- ✅Optional TLC add-on for routine care up to $100/year
- ✅Waiver possible for treatable pre-existing conditions
- ✅Covers travel to New Zealand and Norfolk Island
- ✅Broad emergency boarding included
- ✅Online claims submission available
- ❌Single core plan with limited flexibility
- ❌$100 TLC annual limit much lower than competitors
- ❌Excess applies per separate condition per year
- ❌Key exclusions: dental, hereditary conditions, ongoing illnesses
- ❌Average customer satisfaction only 2.5/5 (ProductReview, 74+ reviews)
Score- ✅80% reimbursement on eligible vet bills
- ✅$12,000 annual limit across most claim types
- ✅Optional TLC add-on for routine care up to $100/year
- ✅Waiver possible for treatable pre-existing conditions
- ✅Covers travel to New Zealand and Norfolk Island
- ✅Broad emergency boarding included
- ✅Online claims submission available
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the Australian market each year to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, thousands of Australians trust us every month to help guide them in their most important financial decisions.
RAC Guarantees
RAC offers a single pet insurance policy for cats and dogs, with the option to add the Tender Loving Care (TLC) benefit, providing core cover for accidents and illnesses at 80% reimbursement up to $12,000 per year, after excess per separate condition.
The standard policy covers emergency boarding, euthanasia, and travel to New Zealand/Norfolk Island, while the TLC add-on reimburses up to $100 per year for wellness and preventive expenses like vaccinations, dental, and alternative therapies.
RAC stands out for its relatively high annual limit, simple structure, and broad wellness inclusions via TLC, but lacks civil liability, offers only limited wellness cover, and applies per-condition excesses; there is no telehealth or direct vet-pay assistance.
Major exclusions include pre-existing conditions, hereditary diseases, some dental unless strict criteria are met, behavioural and breeding-related issues, and no cover for third-party liability or commercial use.
Despite its strengths in coverage flexibility, RAC's separate excesses, low wellness cap, and average customer satisfaction represent notable weaknesses; comparisons with competitors suggest more comprehensive options may exist depending on individual pet needs.
I am sorry, but I lack the current data to compare RAC's pet insurance plans and add-ons in detail to find the best-fit and most affordable cover for your pet. To get this information, you can: Visit the RAC Pet Insurance website directly to see their current plan offerings, coverage details, and pricing; Use online comparison tools that allow you to enter your pet's details and compare pet insurance policies from various providers, including RAC; or contact RAC Pet Insurance directly to discuss your pet's specific needs and receive personalized recommendations.
| Name of coverage | Standard Cover | TLC (Tender Loving Care) add-on |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Comprehensive medical (core plan), optional wellness | Optional wellness/preventive add-on |
| Type of coverage | Accident, illness, emergency boarding, euthanasia, travel | Preventive, dental, alternative therapies |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% of eligible costs (less excess) | Up to actual costs, capped at $100/year |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $12,000 per policy year | $100 per policy year |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Per separate condition per year (policy schedule) | No excess |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | 8 weeks to under 9 years at commencement | 8 weeks to under 9 years at commencement |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 21 days | 21 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 21 days (for all claims) | 21 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ (if renewed continuously, up to annual limit) | ✅ (if renewed, subject to wellness cap) |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ (80%, subject to excess) | ✅ (health check-ups, up to $100/year) |
| Medications | ✅ (registered in Australia, 80%) | ✅ (if vet-prescribed, from $100 wellness cap) |
| Hospitalization | ✅ (on vet recommendation) | ❌ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ (within $12,000 limit & eligible cases) | ❌ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ (up to $12,000 limit) | ❌ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | Only with regular annual exams & if recommended; 80% | ✅ (teeth cleaning, up to $100/year) |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ | ✅ (vaccines, de-sexing, microchipping, up to $100/year) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ (unless TLC added) | ✅ (if vet-prescribed, within $100/year cap) |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | NZ, Norfolk Island only, up to 60 consecutive days | ❌ |
| Civil liability | ❌ (not covered) | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ (if essential, 80% within annual limit) | ❌ |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ (euthanasia only, not routine death/cremation) | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ (not covered) | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalised) | ✅ (up to $1,000/year, 5+ day hospital stay) | ❌ |
Important Information Regarding Excess and Claims
Excess applies per separate condition, per year, not per policy/year total.
No excess for claims under TLC add-on or emergency boarding.
Claims must be for treatments recommended by a vet and not for excluded issues or conditions.
Pre-existing conditions may be waived only if symptom-free for 18+ months and not incurable, on request.
No maximum per-visit cap, but multiple conditions may attract multiple excess charges per visit.
RAC Exclusions
RAC pet insurance excludes a wide range of conditions, with notable exclusions including all pre-existing conditions unless specifically waived, and certain hereditary conditions such as patella luxation and intervertebral disc disease, which are permanently not covered.
There are also exclusions for illness or injury within the first 21 days (waiting period), and for preventable diseases when pets are unvaccinated, which makes regular veterinary care a requirement for maintaining cover.
Dental procedures are only covered if the optional TLC add-on is included, or if strict dental care protocols recommended by a vet are followed, which is more restrictive compared to some competitors.
Commercial activities, behavioural issues, breeding or pregnancy costs, and damage caused by the insured pet to others are also explicitly excluded.
Separate excesses for each condition in a single vet visit and the omission of third-party liability coverage are both important differences from some other insurers in the Australian market.
RAC Prices
RAC positions itself as a mid-range pet insurer in Australia, with an 80% reimbursement rate and a $12,000 annual claims cap that is broadly in line with market averages but without notably high reimbursement percentages or low excesses seen in the most premium offerings.
While core cover is robust for illness and injury—including boarding and euthanasia—preventative and routine care is only accessible via the limited Tender Loving Care (TLC) add-on, which makes the coverage less comprehensive than costlier, “top-tier” providers.
Its digital-first model allows for online policy management and claims yet lacks premium digital extras (such as 24/7 vet helplines or teleconsultation), which helps maintain moderate pricing but may deter customers seeking enhanced support.
RAC is generally competitive for standard needs, with straightforward coverage and few frills, though price increases at renewal and excess application per condition may affect long-term value.
Overall, the offer caters to budget-conscious owners wanting decent protection for major vet costs, rather than those needing extensive extras or the lowest out-of-pocket expenses.
Compare RAC’s plans and estimated premiums below to find the best fit for your pet and budget.
| Standard Policy (Core Cover) | Standard Policy + TLC Add-On | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $24/month | $27/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $31/month | $34/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $32/month | $36/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $45/month | $49/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $61/month | $65/month |
RAC Promo Codes
| RAC 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 RAC reimbursement amount can I expect?
RAC reimburses you for eligible vet expenses by paying back a percentage of the covered costs after subtracting the applicable excess (deductible) per condition, up to your plan’s annual limit. With the highest-tier option (including the Tender Loving Care add-on), you can claim on both major vet bills and routine preventive care.
Treatment for a Fractured Leg (Dog) Example
Total vet costs: $3,800 (consultation, x-rays, surgery, pain medication, follow-up care)
Excess (deductible) applied: $200 (per condition, as per policy schedule)
Amount payable after excess: $3,800 – $200 = $3,600
Reimbursement at 80% with highest-tier plan: $3,600 × 80% = $2,880
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,880 from RAC.
Remaining out-of-pocket cost: $3,800 – $2,880 = $920
ℹ️ The excess is only charged once per condition each year, so future costs for the same issue within this year will not incur another excess.
Bladder Stone Surgery Claim Example (Cat)
Total vet costs: $2,100 (ultrasound, surgery, hospitalisation, medication)
Excess (already paid this year for this condition, so none applies again)
Eligible costs for reimbursement: $2,100
Reimbursement at 80%: $2,100 × 80% = $1,680
👉 You receive $1,680 back from RAC.
Remaining out-of-pocket cost: $2,100 – $1,680 = $420
Annual policy limit remaining: $12,000 – $2,880 (first claim) – $1,680 (this claim) = $7,440
ℹ️ If your pet requires further treatment for this condition during the policy year, no further excess will be subtracted.
Preventive care claims (TLC add-on)
Total costs for annual vaccination, microchipping, and teeth cleaning: $320
Reimbursable under TLC benefit: Up to $100/year; no excess applies
Reimbursement received: $100 (maximum per year under TLC)
👉 You receive $100 reimbursement from RAC.
Remaining out-of-pocket cost: $320 – $100 = $220
ℹ️ The Tender Loving Care (TLC) benefit is an optional extra and must be selected when you take out your policy to claim for routine procedures. No excess applies to claims under TLC.
RAC Assistance
RAC Pet Insurance does not offer non-insurance assistance services such as advance payment facilities (e.g., Payvet or Petcard) or 24/7 veterinary telehealth, which may be disappointing for owners seeking immediate or out-of-hours support. There are no payment facilities for instalments or short-term premium deferral, which may limit budget flexibility for some policyholders. The lack of a dedicated mobile app stands out, particularly as digital-first reimbursement or real-time claim tracking tools are not available; customers must rely on web and phone options. Claims are managed via an online portal, which enables paperless claim submission but may not be as streamlined or interactive as app-based solutions offered by some competitors. While overseas cover is available for trips to New Zealand and Norfolk Island for up to 60 days, the absence of a partner vet network further limits local and international support in urgent scenarios.
| Assistance RAC | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service is available (e.g., Payvet, Petcard, Carecredit). All vet costs must be paid upfront by the policyholder. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No instalment or flexible payment plans are listed. Premiums are generally paid annually or as per direct debit arrangements. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No dedicated RAC Pet Insurance app is offered. No user ratings or mobile interface specifically for pet claims. Policy management is via website only. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Online portal available for claim submission via website. No mobile app, but claims can be lodged electronically and supporting documents uploaded. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 vet helpline, teleconsultation, or emergency assistance is provided. Assistance is limited to standard customer support hours. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No formal partner network or preferred providers listed. Customers may use any licensed vet in Australia or covered destinations. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Cover extends to New Zealand and Norfolk Island for up to 60 consecutive days per trip. No other international cover or worldwide arrangement. |
All vet costs must be paid upfront by the policyholder.
Premiums are generally paid annually or as per direct debit arrangements.
No user ratings or mobile interface specifically for pet claims.
Policy management is via website only.
No mobile app, but claims can be lodged electronically and supporting documents uploaded.
Assistance is limited to standard customer support hours.
Customers may use any licensed vet in Australia or covered destinations.
No other international cover or worldwide arrangement.
Customer Reviews of RAC
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| ProductReview.com.au | 2.5 out of 5 stars (74 reviews) |
| N.C. | N.C. |
| N.C. | N.C. |
We analysed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to RAC for their pets often mention:
- ✅ A prompt reimbursement for some claims when approved.
- ✅ An easy online claims process, especially for straightforward cases.
- ✅ A good level of cover for significant or unexpected vet bills, which provided peace of mind.
On the negative side:
- A large increase in premiums on renewal, with some reporting hikes of up to 70% even if no claims were made.
- A rejection of claims based on pre-existing conditions or unclear policy exclusions, causing disappointment.
- A concern about the overall value for money, with several customers describing the cover as lacking transparency.
- A slow claims processing experience for some, with delays and limited updates provided.
- An excess charged separately for each condition treated during a single vet visit, resulting in higher-than-expected out-of-pocket costs.
How to Contact the RAC
| RAC Customer Service (en-AU) | 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 |
|
| To obtain a certificate of insurance |
|
| To contact assistance | No non-insurance (emergency/helpline) assistance service is included. For customer help: - Phone: 13 17 03 - Deaf/hearing impaired: [relayservice.gov.au](https://relayservice.gov.au) - Postal address: PO Box C140, Perth WA 6839 Use these to speak to a customer support team member for any policy help. |
| To cancel my policy |
|
- How to claim:
- Submit your claim either online via [rac.com.au/petclaim](https://rac.com.au/petclaim) or by calling 137202 (RACQ Insurance).
Documents required:
- Completed claim form
- Original veterinary invoices and receipts
- Any supporting medical documents as requested
Process and average time:
- Claims are reviewed after all documentation is received.
- Most claims are processed in approximately 5–10 business days, but delays may occur.
Payment method:
- Approved reimbursements are paid by electronic funds transfer (EFT) to your nominated bank account.
Contact for queries:
- Phone: 137202
- Postal address (for physical documents):
PO Box 3004, Logan City QLD 4114
- How to request:
- Call RAC Customer Service on 13 17 03.
- Or write to PO Box C140, Perth WA 6839.
- Certificates may also be available via your RAC online member portal.
Information needed:
- Policy number
- Your identification details (name/address)
Contact methods:
- Phone: 13 17 03
- Postal address: PO Box C140, Perth WA 6839
- Phone: 13 17 03
- Deaf/hearing impaired: [relayservice.gov.au](https://relayservice.gov.au)
- Postal address: PO Box C140, Perth WA 6839
Use these to speak to a customer support team member for any policy help.
- How to cancel:
- Contact RAC Customer Service by phone (13 17 03) or in writing (PO Box C140, Perth WA 6839).
Notice period:
- You may cancel at any time. The cancellation takes effect the date they receive your request, or a later date specified by you.
Documents required:
- Policyholder’s details:
- Policy number
- Full name
- Reason for cancellation
- Signature (if in writing)
Refunds:
- You may be eligible for a refund of any unused premium (pro-rata), less any policy fees or charges.
Contact methods:
- Phone: 13 17 03
- Postal address: PO Box C140, Perth WA 6839
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with RAC?
Yes, with RAC pet insurance, you typically need to pay your vet bills upfront at the time of treatment. Afterward, you can lodge a claim online or by phone for reimbursement of eligible costs. RAC does not offer a standard direct payment or third-party payment system to vets.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with RAC?
To cancel your RAC pet insurance policy, you should contact RAC by phone or in writing. Allow at least 14 days’ notice and be prepared to provide your policy details; you may also be asked for a signed cancellation request.
What does the RAC pet insurance policy cover?
RAC covers 80% of eligible vet costs for illness and injury up to $12,000 per year minus any excess per condition. Optional add-ons, like Tender Loving Care (TLC), cover some routine and preventative care up to $100 per year. Cover extends to emergency boarding, euthanasia, and even treatment abroad (NZ, Norfolk Island) under set limits.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by RAC pet insurance?
Pre-existing conditions are generally excluded from cover unless you apply for a waiver. RAC may grant a waiver if your pet has been symptom-free for at least 18 months and the condition isn’t considered incurable or lifelong, subject to vet certification.
How much is the excess and how does it apply?
The excess amount is set in your policy schedule and is payable once per separate condition per policy year. No excess applies to emergency boarding or TLC claims. If your pet is treated for multiple conditions in the same vet visit, a separate excess applies for each condition.
What are the main exclusions I should be aware of?
RAC does not cover pre-existing conditions (unless waived), preventable diseases where your pet isn’t vaccinated, routine dental care (unless TLC is added), elective procedures, specific hereditary conditions, pregnancy/breeding costs, and injuries from deliberate acts or neglect. It's important to check the full list in the combined PDS for details.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with RAC?
Yes, with RAC pet insurance, you typically need to pay your vet bills upfront at the time of treatment. Afterward, you can lodge a claim online or by phone for reimbursement of eligible costs. RAC does not offer a standard direct payment or third-party payment system to vets.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with RAC?
To cancel your RAC pet insurance policy, you should contact RAC by phone or in writing. Allow at least 14 days’ notice and be prepared to provide your policy details; you may also be asked for a signed cancellation request.
What does the RAC pet insurance policy cover?
RAC covers 80% of eligible vet costs for illness and injury up to $12,000 per year minus any excess per condition. Optional add-ons, like Tender Loving Care (TLC), cover some routine and preventative care up to $100 per year. Cover extends to emergency boarding, euthanasia, and even treatment abroad (NZ, Norfolk Island) under set limits.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by RAC pet insurance?
Pre-existing conditions are generally excluded from cover unless you apply for a waiver. RAC may grant a waiver if your pet has been symptom-free for at least 18 months and the condition isn’t considered incurable or lifelong, subject to vet certification.
How much is the excess and how does it apply?
The excess amount is set in your policy schedule and is payable once per separate condition per policy year. No excess applies to emergency boarding or TLC claims. If your pet is treated for multiple conditions in the same vet visit, a separate excess applies for each condition.
What are the main exclusions I should be aware of?
RAC does not cover pre-existing conditions (unless waived), preventable diseases where your pet isn’t vaccinated, routine dental care (unless TLC is added), elective procedures, specific hereditary conditions, pregnancy/breeding costs, and injuries from deliberate acts or neglect. It's important to check the full list in the combined PDS for details.
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