RSCPA Pet Insurance 2025: Full Review for Australian Pet Owners
- RSPCA Guarantees
- RSPCA Exclusions
- RSPCA Prices
- RSPCA Assistance
- Customer Reviews of the RSPCA
- How to contact the RSPCA
- FAQ
Our expert's opinion on RSCPA
RSPCA Pet Insurance is an established Australian insurer offering four policy tiers, with the General Cover providing up to 60% reimbursement, $2,000 per-condition and $11,000 total annual limits, and no excess, but excluding routine and dental care as standard.RSPCA stands out for its zero excess, broad accident/illness coverage, and flexible entry ages (8 weeks to under 16 years), but its low reimbursement rate and strict sub-limits put it below more premium competitors like Knose or Bow Wow Meow, especially for those seeking higher payouts or wellness options.This policy best suits owners of younger pets, multi-pet households, or those seeking straightforward cover for common accidents and illnesses on a moderate budget, provided they do not require cover for chronic pre-existing or routine care.Underwritten by PetSure (a major Australian pet insurer), RSPCA is financially stable, but with only 27 Trustpilot reviews and a 2.2/5 rating citing denied claims and communication concerns, claim handling is variable; most claims are processed via a digital portal or GapOnly in-clinic, although exact reimbursement speeds are not publicly stated.
- ✅Zero excess across all policy tiers
- ✅High annual overall limit ($11,000 General, up to $20,000 on top plan)
- ✅Cover for emergencies abroad (NZ, Norfolk Island)
- ✅Lifetime cover with continuous renewal
- ✅GapOnly® claims at participating vets
- ✅Multiple claim channels: portal, vet, post
- ✅Broad accidental injury and illness definitions
- ❌Low 60% reimbursement rate on General Cover
- ❌Strict per-condition and sub-limits ($2,000 cap/condition)
- ❌No routine or dental cover on base plans
- ❌Claims regularly declined for exclusions/pre-existing conditions
- ❌Limited positive reviews; mixed customer satisfaction
Score- ✅Zero excess across all policy tiers
- ✅High annual overall limit ($11,000 General, up to $20,000 on top plan)
- ✅Cover for emergencies abroad (NZ, Norfolk Island)
- ✅Lifetime cover with continuous renewal
- ✅GapOnly® claims at participating vets
- ✅Multiple claim channels: portal, vet, post
- ✅Broad accidental injury and illness definitions
Our expert's opinion on RSCPA
- ✅Zero excess across all policy tiers
- ✅High annual overall limit ($11,000 General, up to $20,000 on top plan)
- ✅Cover for emergencies abroad (NZ, Norfolk Island)
- ✅Lifetime cover with continuous renewal
- ✅GapOnly® claims at participating vets
- ✅Multiple claim channels: portal, vet, post
- ✅Broad accidental injury and illness definitions
- ❌Low 60% reimbursement rate on General Cover
- ❌Strict per-condition and sub-limits ($2,000 cap/condition)
- ❌No routine or dental cover on base plans
- ❌Claims regularly declined for exclusions/pre-existing conditions
- ❌Limited positive reviews; mixed customer satisfaction
Score- ✅Zero excess across all policy tiers
- ✅High annual overall limit ($11,000 General, up to $20,000 on top plan)
- ✅Cover for emergencies abroad (NZ, Norfolk Island)
- ✅Lifetime cover with continuous renewal
- ✅GapOnly® claims at participating vets
- ✅Multiple claim channels: portal, vet, post
- ✅Broad accidental injury and illness definitions
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the Australian market each year to offer you a reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, thousands of Australians trust us every month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
RSPCA Guarantees
RSPCA’s General Cover plan provides 60% reimbursement on eligible accident and illness vet costs (no wellness/dental cover) with an annual cap of $11,000 and a $2,000 per-condition sub-limit, featuring no deductible and coverage for both dogs and cats from 8 weeks up to under 16 years at entry.
Policy strengths include lifetime guaranteed renewal (if continuous), clear condition/annual sub-limits, and no pre-enrollment health questionnaire for General Cover.
Weaknesses are the relatively low reimbursement rate compared to market leaders, lack of routine and dental options in General Cover, and strict exclusions for pre-existing and preventable conditions.
| Name of coverage | General Cover |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Accident & illness mid-market |
| Type of coverage | Accident & illness |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 60% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $11,000 per year |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $0 |
| Age limits for enrollment (dogs/cats) | 8 weeks–under 16 years |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | ❌ |
| Waiting period (illness) | 30 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | None (cruciate: 6 months) |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ $300/year sub-limit |
| Medications | ✅ within overall limits |
| Hospitalization | ✅ within overall limits |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ within overall limits |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ within overall limits |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌ |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ✅ NZ, Norfolk Island, up to 60 days abroad |
| Civil liability | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ if essential, within limits |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ $500/year sub-limit |
Important Policy Details
No annual limit on the number of claims if within per-condition and annual caps.
Vet consultation fees are capped at $300/year and paid as part of the plan limit.
Accidental cruciate ligament injury has a 6-month waiting period, but this may be waived with a vet exam.
Compare RSPCA’s pet insurance plans with other providers before enrolling to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!RSPCA Exclusions
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical and Pre-existing |
|
| Dental and Preventive Care |
|
| Alternative and Behavioural |
|
| Cosmetic and Elective Procedures |
|
| Experimental and Excluded Surgeries |
|
| Geographic and Travel |
|
| Cost/Limits |
|
| Owner Negligence and Legal |
|
| Boarding, Transport, Administration |
|
- Any pre
- existing or bilateral condition
- Chronic conditions identified before cover starts
- Illnesses during waiting periods
- Conditions related to congenital/ hereditary defects if present or symptomatic pre
- cover
- Dental care, including disease, fractures, gingivitis, scaling, cleaning, extractions, cosmetic/orthodontic
- Vaccinations, microchipping, parasite treatments, supplements, prescription diet
- Desexing, teeth cleaning, wellness procedures unless otherwise stated
- Alternative therapies (acupuncture, homeopathy, laser, physiotherapy, chiropractic, hydrotherapy, herbal drugs)
- Behavioural consultations, treatment, training, anxiety or phobia management
- Accessory and equipment costs (cages, bedding)—unless for covered medical condition
- Ear/tail docking, declawing, nail clipping/ removal, nose/sinus correction
- Cosmetic or elective procedures including aesthetic surgery
- Non
- essential euthanasia, sterilisation by chemical means, suprelorin implants
- Organ or tissue transplantation, prosthetics, artificial limbs, mitral valve/open heart/3D
- printed organ surgery
- Specialist, experimental, or non
- essential operations
- Vet care for pets living outside Australia or trips longer than 60 days abroad
- Travel to non
- included countries (other than NZ, Norfolk Island)
- Treatment for diseases subject to biosecurity emergency declaration
- Claims exceeding annual, per
- condition, or sub
- limits
- Any non
- vet approved or unnecessary expense
- Consequential, indirect, or non
- medical losses
- Negligence, deliberate harm, failure to protect pet
- Participation in fighting or hunting
- Expenses related to violation of law or regulation
- Boarding except covered emergency boarding
- Ambulance, non
- essential hospitalisation, house calls (unless as cost
- effective as in
- clinic)
- Administration fees, accessories, and personal transport costs
RSPCA Prices
RSPCA pet insurance sits at a mid-range price point in the Australian market, reflecting moderate reimbursement rates and annual benefit caps compared to more premium providers.Its 60% reimbursement for General Cover is lower than most top competitors, which translates to generally lower premiums, but with higher out-of-pocket costs at claim time and some limits on payout per condition.The $0 excess helps keep the coverage straightforward, but the lack of included routine, dental, or alternative care in basic tiers means the value is best suited for pet owners seeking protection against major expenses without broad add-ons.RSPCA’s hybrid model—offering both digital management tools and traditional customer support—provides reasonable efficiency without the deep digital discounting of pure online insurers.Overall, RSPCA is competitive for families seeking affordable, essential coverage without premium pricing or high-end comprehensive features.
Compare RSPCA’s pet insurance plans with other top providers to find the right price and feature balance for your pet.
| General Cover (estimate) | Economy (estimate) | Ultimate (estimate) | Ultimate Plus (estimate) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $32/month | $39/month | $45/month | $61/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $45/month | $54/month | $61/month | $85/month |
| Small breed dog | $36/month | $44/month | $55/month | $82/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $36/month | $44/month | $55/month | $82/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $61/month | $69/month | $80/month | $115/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $84/month | $92/month | $111/month | $159/month |
RSPCA Promo Codes
| RSCPA 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 amounts are offered by the RSPCA?
With RSPCA’s highest-tier pet insurance plans, you’ll be reimbursed up to 80% of eligible vet bills, with no excess, for a broad range of accidents and illnesses, making your out-of-pocket costs far lower than going uninsured.
Cruciate ligament surgery (large breed dog)
Total vet costs: $3,800 (surgery, anaesthesia, post-op hospital stay)
Deductible amount to subtract: $0 (no excess applies)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with Ultimate Plus: $3,800 × 80% = $3,040
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $3,040 from RSPCA; your out-of-pocket cost is $760.
ℹ️ The annual per-condition limit is higher on Ultimate Plus; for this example, the full expense fits under all limits.
Eye infection treatment (cat)
Total vet costs: $450 (consultation, examination, prescription medication)
Deductible amount to subtract: $0 (no excess applies)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with Ultimate Plus: $450 × 80% = $360
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $360 from RSPCA; your out-of-pocket cost is $90.
ℹ️ Provided the total cost does not exceed your overall or consultation sub-limit (for some plans), this will be reimbursed at 80%.
Tick paralysis emergency (dog) - Cost & Reimbursement
Total vet costs: $6,000 (ICU monitoring, antivenom, recovery)
Deductible amount to subtract: $0 (no excess applies)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with Ultimate Plus: $6,000 × 80% = $4,800
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $4,800 from RSPCA; your out-of-pocket cost is $1,200.
ℹ️ On Ultimate Plus, the $20,000 annual limit accommodates multiple significant claims per year before reaching the cap.
RSPCA Assistance
| Assistance RSCPA | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment (Payvet, Petcard) currently available; owners pay upfront and claim via portal/GapOnly. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | N.C. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted via online portal or through the vet (GapOnly) or on paper. Claim status tracked online. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency vet helpline, teleconsultation, or triage included in service. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ✅ | GapOnly® available at participating clinics for real-time claim approval; allows owner to pay only out-of-pocket difference. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Cover applies in New Zealand and Norfolk Island for up to 60 days per trip, subject to standard policy limits and exclusions. |
Customer Reviews of the RSPCA
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 2.2 / 5 (27 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to RSPCA for their pets often mention:
- A helpful and compassionate customer service experience, particularly during critical or emotional pet health events.
- A clear claims portal and submission process, with online management available.
- Support from the RSPCA brand and feeling of contributing to animal welfare through policy purchase.
On the negative side:
- A high incidence of denied claims, often due to exclusions for pre-existing conditions, annual sub-limits, or covered categories.
- Notable dissatisfaction with premium increases over time, sometimes seen as poorly communicated.
- Customer service rated as inconsistent—some users report difficulty in obtaining explanations for declined claims or delays in communication.
- A reimbursement process that is sometimes perceived as slow, especially for more complex cases.
- Complaints regarding unclear or confusing policy wording leading to claim misunderstandings.
How to contact the RSPCA
| RSCPA 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 via the online claims portal: https://petportal.rspcapetinsurance.com.au Alternatively, use a paper form or claim via your participating vet (GapOnly® clinics). Required documents: completed claim form, itemised invoice, and vet clinical notes. Contact: [email protected] or mail to Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765. Phone: 1300 855 150 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm AEST) Average processing time: typically within days if all documents are correct. Reimbursement is paid by EFT to your nominated bank account. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request by email ([email protected]), via the customer portal (https://petportal.rspcapetinsurance.com.au), or by calling 1300 855 150. Postal requests: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1300 855 150 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm AEST) Email: [email protected] Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765 |
| To cancel my policy | Contact RSCPA by phone at 1300 855 150 or email at [email protected] with your policy number and written request for cancellation. You may also send a letter to Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765. Written notice is required; provide your full policy details and preferred cancellation date. Any unused premium may be refundable on a pro rata basis (check your Product Disclosure Statement for details). |
Alternatively, use a paper form or claim via your participating vet (GapOnly® clinics).
Required documents: completed claim form, itemised invoice, and vet clinical notes.
Contact: [email protected] or mail to Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765.
Phone: 1300 855 150 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm AEST)
Average processing time: typically within days if all documents are correct.
Reimbursement is paid by EFT to your nominated bank account.
Postal requests: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765.
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765
You may also send a letter to Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill NSW 1765.
Written notice is required; provide your full policy details and preferred cancellation date.
Any unused premium may be refundable on a pro rata basis (check your Product Disclosure Statement for details).
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with RSCPA?
Yes, RSCPA pet insurance policyholders generally pay vet costs upfront and then lodge a claim for reimbursement. If your vet participates in the GapOnly® system, you only pay the gap (the difference between your invoice and your eligible claim benefit) at the clinic. For all other clinics, you pay the full invoice first and receive your reimbursement after your claim is processed.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with RSCPA?
You can cancel your RSCPA pet insurance policy at any time by contacting customer service by phone, email, or mail. Written notice with your policy number and the requested cancellation date is required. Any unused premium may be refunded on a pro rata basis. It is advised to check your Product Disclosure Statement for full cancellation and refund terms.
What does the RSCPA General Cover policy include and exclude?
The General Cover plan includes cover for a broad range of accidental injuries and illnesses, up to annual and per-condition limits. Typical examples are cancer, broken bones, hereditary or congenital issues (if not pre-existing), and tick paralysis. Routine care and dental cover are not included under this plan. Exclusions apply to pre-existing conditions, many routine and dental treatments, behavioural/alternative therapies, and elective procedures, so reviewing the PDS is essential.
What are the policy limits and how do they affect claims?
The General Cover provides up to $2,000 per condition per year, with a maximum of $11,000 in total annual benefits. Sub-limits apply to some services, like consultations and emergency boarding, which means claims for these will be capped at a lower annual amount. If your pet's treatment costs exceed these set limits, you will need to cover the difference. Always check your policy details for applicable limits.
How long does it take to be reimbursed and how do I receive payment?
Once you have lodged a claim online or via post with all required documents, standard reimbursement is typically processed within a few business days if complete. Payments are usually made via electronic funds transfer (EFT) to your nominated bank account. Any missing or incorrect information may delay processing. For faster turnaround, check your documents before submitting and use the online claims portal where possible.
Does RSCPA cover dental or routine/preventive care for my pet?
Dental care, routine check-ups, vaccinations, desexing, parasite control, and similar preventive treatments are not covered under the RSCPA General Cover plan. Some higher-tier policies may offer routine care or dental as optional extras, but this is not included in General Cover. Refer to your Certificate of Insurance or contact customer service for details about your specific policy inclusions and exclusions.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with RSCPA?
Yes, RSCPA pet insurance policyholders generally pay vet costs upfront and then lodge a claim for reimbursement. If your vet participates in the GapOnly® system, you only pay the gap (the difference between your invoice and your eligible claim benefit) at the clinic. For all other clinics, you pay the full invoice first and receive your reimbursement after your claim is processed.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with RSCPA?
You can cancel your RSCPA pet insurance policy at any time by contacting customer service by phone, email, or mail. Written notice with your policy number and the requested cancellation date is required. Any unused premium may be refunded on a pro rata basis. It is advised to check your Product Disclosure Statement for full cancellation and refund terms.
What does the RSCPA General Cover policy include and exclude?
The General Cover plan includes cover for a broad range of accidental injuries and illnesses, up to annual and per-condition limits. Typical examples are cancer, broken bones, hereditary or congenital issues (if not pre-existing), and tick paralysis. Routine care and dental cover are not included under this plan. Exclusions apply to pre-existing conditions, many routine and dental treatments, behavioural/alternative therapies, and elective procedures, so reviewing the PDS is essential.
What are the policy limits and how do they affect claims?
The General Cover provides up to $2,000 per condition per year, with a maximum of $11,000 in total annual benefits. Sub-limits apply to some services, like consultations and emergency boarding, which means claims for these will be capped at a lower annual amount. If your pet's treatment costs exceed these set limits, you will need to cover the difference. Always check your policy details for applicable limits.
How long does it take to be reimbursed and how do I receive payment?
Once you have lodged a claim online or via post with all required documents, standard reimbursement is typically processed within a few business days if complete. Payments are usually made via electronic funds transfer (EFT) to your nominated bank account. Any missing or incorrect information may delay processing. For faster turnaround, check your documents before submitting and use the online claims portal where possible.
Does RSCPA cover dental or routine/preventive care for my pet?
Dental care, routine check-ups, vaccinations, desexing, parasite control, and similar preventive treatments are not covered under the RSCPA General Cover plan. Some higher-tier policies may offer routine care or dental as optional extras, but this is not included in General Cover. Refer to your Certificate of Insurance or contact customer service for details about your specific policy inclusions and exclusions.
