Best Travel Insurance in Australia: Buying Guide in 2025

Introduction

Planning a trip is exciting—but unexpected surprises like flight cancellations, lost luggage, or sudden illness can quickly turn your dream getaway into a costly headache. That’s where travel insurance comes in. Whether you’re visiting Australia, heading overseas from Sydney or Melbourne, or exploring the Outback on a domestic adventure, the right travel insurance policy can protect your plans, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

In this all-in-one guide, we break down everything you need to know about travel insurance in Australia—what it covers, how much it costs, where to buy it, and how to file a claim if things don’t go as planned. We’ll also compare leading insurance providers, answer frequently asked questions, and highlight key tips to help you choose the best policy for your travel needs in 2025.

So whether you’re a tourist, a student on a visa, or an Aussie heading abroad, read on to make smarter, safer travel decisions.

1. What Is Travel Insurance and Why You Need It for Trips to and from Australia

If you’ve ever had your luggage go missing or had to cancel a trip last-minute, you’ll understand the value of having a safety net. Travel insurance is that safety net—it’s a financial product that helps cover the cost of unexpected events while you’re travelling. These can include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, flight delays, lost or stolen belongings, and even natural disasters or political unrest, depending on the policy.

Why Is Travel Insurance Important for Australia-Related Travel?

Whether you’re:

• A visitor to Australia exploring the Great Barrier Reef,
• A student on a visa attending university in Sydney or Melbourne,
• A backpacker on a working holiday, or
• An Aussie flying overseas for business or pleasure—

Travel insurance gives you peace of mind by covering major risks that could otherwise cost thousands of dollars out of pocket.

For example:

• Australia’s healthcare system, Medicare, does not cover international tourists—so if you fall ill or get injured, the bills are on you.
• Airlines aren’t obligated to reimburse you for flight cancellations due to weather or strikes.
• Even a minor accident abroad could lead to hospitalisation, which can easily exceed AUD $10,000 without insurance.

Is It Mandatory?

While travel insurance isn’t legally required for most trips, it is strongly recommended. However, for some visa types (like subclass 485 or student visas), private health and travel insurance may be a condition of entry.

Quick Summary – Key Benefits of Travel Insurance:

Covered Scenario	Is It Typically Included?
Overseas medical emergencies	✅ Yes
Trip cancellations or delays	✅ Yes
Lost/stolen baggage & valuables	✅ Yes
Adventure sports or rental cars	❌ Optional or extra
COVID-19 coverage	✅ Varies by provider

2. Who Should Buy Travel Insurance in Australia?

If you’re wondering whether travel insurance is worth it, the short answer is: yes—almost everyone can benefit from it. But let’s break it down by the most common types of travellers to and from Australia, so you can see which policies suit your situation.

International Tourists Visiting Australia

Whether you’re coming from the US, UK, Canada, or anywhere else, Australia is a bucket-list destination filled with adventure. But it also comes with risks like:

• Unpredictable weather (think bushfires or cyclones),
• Remote areas with limited medical access, and
• Expensive out-of-pocket healthcare for foreigners.

Why you need it:
Australia doesn’t offer free public healthcare to most international visitors. Even a routine doctor visit can cost AUD $100+, and hospital stays can easily exceed AUD $5,000. Travel insurance helps you avoid those bills—and gets you help faster.

International Students on a Visa

If you’re studying in Australia, you’re likely required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), but that doesn’t always include full travel-related protection, such as:

• Family emergencies that require returning home,
• Stolen laptops or phones,
• Travel interruptions during semester breaks.

Why you need it:
Consider combining OSHC with comprehensive travel insurance to stay protected during holidays and personal travel.

Australian Residents Travelling Overseas

Even if you live in Australia and have Medicare or private health insurance, that coverage doesn’t apply overseas. Without travel insurance, you’re on your own if you:

• Get sick in another country,
• Lose a passport or baggage,
• Need to cancel flights due to emergencies.

Why you need it:
A single emergency evacuation from Asia or Europe can cost more than AUD $50,000.

Business Travellers and Frequent Flyers

If you travel often, whether for business or family reasons, an annual multi-trip policy could save you money and time. Many providers offer tailored coverage for corporate travel.

Why you need it:
Delays, missed meetings, lost gear—insurance ensures you’re not footing the bill for business disruptions.

Backpackers and Adventure Seekers

Planning to surf, dive, or hike through Australia or Southeast Asia? You’ll want a policy that includes adventure sports and gear protection.

Why you need it:
Adventure travel carries higher risks, and most basic policies don’t cover activities like scuba diving, skydiving, or snow sports without add-ons.

Tip: Choose a policy based on your purpose of travel, destination, and length of stay—not just the cheapest premium.

3. What Does Travel Insurance Cover in Australia?

Understanding what’s included in a travel insurance policy can save you from unwanted surprises later. While coverage can vary between providers, most Australian travel insurance plans offer protection in these core categories:

Emergency Medical Treatment & Hospital Expenses

This is often the most critical part of travel insurance. It covers:

• Doctor visits and hospital stays
• Emergency surgeries
• Ambulance fees
• Medical evacuation (especially important in remote parts of Australia)

Good to know: If you’re not an Australian citizen or don’t have reciprocal healthcare agreements, even a short hospital visit could cost thousands.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Baggage and Personal Items

Whether your luggage goes missing at Sydney Airport or your phone is stolen at Bondi Beach, most plans offer:

• Reimbursement for lost items
• Daily allowance for essentials if your bags are delayed
• Coverage for lost travel documents

Tip: Some policies cap electronics coverage, so check the maximum limits for phones, cameras, and laptops.

Trip Cancellations, Delays, and Interruptions

From cancelled flights due to weather to family emergencies that force you to change plans, this section typically includes:

• Prepaid trip cost reimbursement (hotels, tours, flights)
• Compensation for long delays
• Extra transport or accommodation during interruptions

Example: If your flight is cancelled due to a Qantas strike or sudden bushfire, insurance can help you rebook without paying out of pocket.

COVID-19 and Pandemic-Related Disruptions

Many Australian insurers now offer COVID-19 cover, including:

• Trip cancellation due to a positive test
• Quarantine expenses
• Medical treatment if you catch the virus while travelling

Important: Always check what’s excluded, like lockdowns or government-imposed travel bans.

Rental Car Excess Cover

If you’re renting a car to explore the Great Ocean Road or Tasmania, this add-on is worth having. It can reimburse:

• Collision damage excess (up to a set limit)
• Theft or accidental damage not covered by the rental company

Personal Liability Cover

This protects you if you’re held legally responsible for injury to another person or damage to property while travelling.

Summary Table: Common Inclusions in Australian Travel Insurance

Coverage Type	Usually Included	Notes
Emergency medical expenses	✅ Yes	Crucial for international travellers
Trip cancellations/delays	✅ Yes	Often requires specific reasons
Lost/stolen baggage	✅ Yes	Caps may apply to electronics
COVID-19-related disruptions	✅ Yes	Check terms—varies by provider
Rental car excess	⚠️ Optional	Often an add-on
Personal liability	✅ Yes	Subject to limits (e.g., AUD $2 million)

4. Common Exclusions You Should Know Before Buying Travel Insurance

Not everything is covered under a travel insurance policy—and knowing what’s excluded is just as important as knowing what’s included. These policy exclusions can leave you out of pocket if you’re not careful, especially when travelling in or from Australia.

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Many insurers will not automatically cover pre-existing conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Asthma
• Recent surgeries or mental health conditions

What to do:
Some insurers offer cover for declared conditions—but you must disclose them upfront, and often pay a higher premium. Always check the medical assessment requirements during purchase.

High-Risk Activities and Adventure Sports

Love scuba diving, bungee jumping, skiing in Thredbo, or skydiving? These aren’t usually covered under standard travel insurance.

What to do:
Look for adventure travel add-ons or a policy tailored for backpackers and thrill-seekers.

Alcohol or Drug-Related Incidents

If you’re injured or cause damage while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, your claim is almost always denied.

Example:
If you fall off a balcony after a few drinks in Cairns—your medical expenses may not be covered.

Unapproved or Last-Minute Cancellations

Most travel insurance only covers trip cancellations for specific reasons, like:

• Illness
• Natural disasters
• Airline strikes

What’s not covered:

• Changing your mind
• Canceling due to work reasons (unless included as a business travel benefit)

Unattended Belongings

Claims for stolen items may be rejected if the items were:

• Left in a parked car
• Left unattended in a public space
• Checked into luggage (e.g., laptops in checked baggage)

Undeclared Destinations or Policy Misuse

Travelling to a country under government travel warnings (DFAT ‘Do Not Travel’)? Your policy may become void.

Tip:
Always check the Smartraveller website or your country’s equivalent for real-time travel advice.

Quick Recap: What’s Commonly Excluded

Exclusion Category	Covered?	Notes
Pre-existing conditions	❌ No	Some may be covered if declared
Adventure sports	⚠️ Optional	Only with specific add-on or higher-tier policy
Drug/alcohol-related incidents	❌ No	Never covered
Unapproved trip cancellations	❌ No	Must meet insurer’s criteria
Lost items left unattended	❌ No	Often rejected unless due care was taken
Travel to restricted countries	❌ No	Check DFAT or insurer’s approved country list

Pro Tip: Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or ask for a summary from the provider before purchasing.

5. How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in Australia?

One of the first questions most travellers ask is:
“How much does travel insurance cost for a trip to or from Australia?”
The answer? It depends—on where you’re going, how long you’ll stay, your age, and what coverage you need.

Let’s break it down so you can budget wisely and avoid overpaying.

Average Travel Insurance Costs for Australians Going Overseas

Trip Duration	Region	Estimated Cost (AUD)
2 weeks	New Zealand	$45 – $70
2 weeks	Southeast Asia (e.g., Bali, Thailand)	$60 – $110
3 weeks	Europe	$120 – $180
1 month	USA or Canada	$150 – $250
Annual Cover	Worldwide (multi-trip)	$300 – $700

Note: Prices vary by insurer, traveller age, pre-existing conditions, and extras like adventure sports.

What Factors Affect Travel Insurance Prices in Australia?

1. Destination
   Travel to the U.S. or Japan is often more expensive due to higher healthcare costs.
2. Length of Trip
   Longer trips = higher premiums. Some policies cap the number of days per trip.
3. Age of Traveller
   Travellers over 65 generally pay more, as risk increases with age.
4. Medical History
   Pre-existing conditions may require a higher premium or special cover.
5. Level of Cover
   Basic policies are cheaper but may have low claim limits. Comprehensive plans include more benefits (and cost more).
6. Extras and Add-Ons
   Adventure sports, cruise cover, rental car excess—these can all raise your premium.

Are Cheaper Travel Insurance Policies Worth It?

It’s tempting to pick the cheapest travel insurance you can find, especially through comparison sites. But cheaper isn’t always better—look for:

• Excess amounts (what you pay out of pocket before claiming)
• Coverage limits (low limits may not cover your actual loss)
• Provider reputation (check reviews and claim success rates)

Smart Tip: Use Comparison Tools

Websites like Compare the Market, Canstar, or CHOICE Australia help you:

• Compare side-by-side plans
• Filter by activity type or destination
• Read user reviews before you buy

6. Where to Buy the Best Travel Insurance in Australia: Online, Banks, or Airlines?

When it comes to purchasing travel insurance in Australia, you’re spoilt for choice. But each option—whether it’s online platforms, banks, or airlines—comes with its own pros and cons. Let’s explore where you can buy the best-value travel insurance and how to choose the right provider for your needs.

1. Online Comparison Websites (Aggregators)

Websites like Compare the Market, Finder, and iSelect allow you to:

• View quotes from multiple insurers
• Compare policy features side by side
• Apply filters (like COVID-19 cover or age-based needs)

Why choose this option:
✔ Fast, transparent, and ideal for comparing price vs. benefits
✔ Often includes special discounts or promo codes
❌ May not show all insurers—some premium providers don’t list here

2. Travel Insurance from Australian Banks and Credit Cards

Many banks such as ANZ, Westpac, CommBank, and NAB offer travel insurance—either:

• As a standalone product
• Or included with premium credit cards

Why choose this option:
✔ Convenient if you’re already a customer
✔ Credit card-linked insurance is often free—but only if you use the card to pay for travel
❌ Coverage limits and exclusions may be strict; you must activate it before travel

Tip: Always request a full policy document before relying on credit card insurance.

3. Through Airlines or Travel Booking Platforms

Airlines like Qantas or Jetstar, and booking sites like Expedia and Skyscanner, offer travel insurance at checkout.

Why choose this option:
✔ One-click convenience when booking tickets
✔ Tailored to your specific trip dates and destination
❌ May be limited in scope or lack customisation options

4. Directly from Travel Insurance Companies

Buying directly from providers such as Cover-More, Allianz, Southern Cross Travel Insurance, or NIB gives you:

• Full access to their product range
• Detailed support and customer service
• Optional add-ons like cruise cover or adventure sports

Why choose this option:
✔ Better customisation
✔ Trusted customer support
❌ Takes more time to compare manually

Quick Comparison Table

Purchase Channel	Best For	Watch Out For
Comparison websites	Budget-conscious travellers	Not all providers listed
Banks/credit cards	Frequent travellers using cards	Activation rules, limited cover
Airlines/travel sites	One-time trips, convenience	Fewer features, generic policies
Direct from insurers	Customisable plans, strong cover	May take time to compare manually

Pro Tip: Before buying, always review the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and confirm whether your destination is covered under current travel advisories.

7. Top 5 Trusted Travel Insurance Providers in Australia (2025 Edition)

Choosing a reliable insurer can make all the difference when it comes to filing a smooth claim—or facing endless red tape. To help you pick with confidence, we’ve rounded up five of the most trusted travel insurance providers in Australia based on customer reviews, independent ratings (CHOICE, Canstar), and coverage flexibility in 2025.

1. Cover-More Insurance

• Best for: Comprehensive international travel and medical coverage
• Highlights:
  ✔ Strong global medical network
  ✔ 24/7 emergency assistance
  ✔ Options for cruise and adventure sports cover
• Why we like it: Backed by Zurich, Cover-More is a top choice among Aussie travellers for its reliability and customisation options.

2. Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI)

• Best for: Budget-conscious travellers and families
• Highlights:
  ✔ Direct-only model (lower fees)
  ✔ High-value medical and cancellation cover
  ✔ Clean claim reputation
• Why we like it: A favourite for family trips and younger travellers, with simple online processes and good transparency.

3. Allianz Global Assistance

• Best for: Frequent flyers and business travellers
• Highlights:
  ✔ Optional annual multi-trip cover
  ✔ Travel app and fast claims process
  ✔ Broad global coverage
• Why we like it: Trusted worldwide, Allianz offers robust coverage and reliable support—especially helpful for international business trips.

4. NIB Travel Insurance

• Best for: Customisable policies and pre-existing medical conditions
• Highlights:
  ✔ Easy-to-use online quote system
  ✔ Cruise and winter sports add-ons
  ✔ Good for students and longer trips
• Why we like it: NIB offers flexible plans that suit many travellers, including those needing tailored health cover.

5. Fast Cover Travel Insurance

• Best for: Adventure travellers and digital nomads
• Highlights:
  ✔ High coverage for gear and activities
  ✔ Emergency repatriation included
  ✔ Good reviews for solo travellers
• Why we like it: Ideal for backpackers and adventurous souls looking for value and broad protection across continents.

Compare Providers at a Glance

Provider	Best For	Standout Feature
Cover-More	Comprehensive global cover	24/7 global medical support
Southern Cross	Affordable family cover	Direct-only, low-cost model
Allianz	Frequent international trips	Multi-trip annual plans
NIB	Tailored medical coverage	Easy cover for pre-existing conditions
Fast Cover	Backpackers & adventure seekers	High gear and activity limits

Tip: Always get quotes from at least 2–3 providers. Even small differences in trip details can impact your premium.

8. How to File a Travel Insurance Claim in Australia: Step-by-Step Guide

No one likes dealing with insurance paperwork—but when something goes wrong, knowing how to file a travel insurance claim properly can make all the difference. Whether your luggage went missing or you needed emergency medical help abroad, this guide will walk you through the process so your claim has the best chance of being approved quickly.

Step 1: Review Your Policy Inclusions and Conditions

Before filing a claim, double-check:

• What’s covered under your plan
• Any claim limits or exclusions
• Required documents (receipts, reports, etc.)

Tip: Most insurers provide a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) that outlines everything you need.

Step 2: Notify Your Insurance Provider ASAP

Many insurers require you to notify them within 24–72 hours of an incident. For emergencies (like hospitalization or evacuation), contact them immediately—many offer 24/7 assistance hotlines.

Keep handy: Your policy number, travel details, and any local emergency reports.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documentation

Different claims require different paperwork. Here’s what you may need:

Claim Type	Commonly Required Documents
Medical expenses	Doctor/hospital reports, invoices, prescriptions
Trip cancellation	Airline/hotel cancellation notices, receipts, reason
Lost/stolen items	Police report (within 24 hours), receipts, photos
Travel delay	Airline confirmation, receipts for extra expenses
Rental car damage	Rental agreement, damage report, repair invoice

Pro tip: Keep digital and physical copies of everything while travelling.

Step 4: Submit Your Claim Online or via App

Most modern insurers let you submit travel claims online, and some have mobile apps for even faster processing. Be sure to:

• Fill out the claim form completely
• Attach scanned documents clearly
• Keep original copies until the claim is settled

Step 5: Track Your Claim and Follow Up if Needed

After submission:

• You’ll typically get a confirmation email
• Claims are usually processed within 5–15 business days, depending on complexity
• If delayed, you can follow up via phone, chat, or email

Tip: Some insurers provide a case manager or claim number—use it for faster updates.

How to Improve Your Chances of a Successful Claim

• Read your PDS before you travel
• Report incidents to police, airlines, or hospitals as soon as possible
• Be honest in your claim submission
• Don’t delay—claims filed weeks after an incident may be denied

9. Tips to Choose the Right Travel Insurance Policy for Your Needs

With so many travel insurance options available in Australia, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—this section will help you make a smart, confident decision by focusing on what matters most for your specific trip, budget, and risk level.

1. Match the Policy to Your Travel Type

Not all travel insurance plans are built the same. Choose one based on:

• Destination: Some policies offer tailored cover for Asia, the USA, or Europe.
• Trip duration: Going for 5 days? 3 months? Consider single-trip or annual multi-trip policies.
• Activity level: Planning to ski, hike, scuba dive, or cruise? Look for plans that cover adventure sports or cruise-specific risks.

Example: A backpacker exploring Southeast Asia will need a very different policy from a couple on a luxury cruise.

2. Don’t Just Go for the Cheapest Policy

It’s tempting to grab the lowest price you see—but it might come with:

• High excess (out-of-pocket amount you must pay before claiming)
• Low limits on baggage, electronics, or cancellations
• Strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions or COVID-19

Pro tip: Look at the value of the policy, not just the premium.

3. Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)

This is where the real story lies. Key things to check:

• Medical coverage limits
• Trip cancellation reasons allowed
• Baggage cover restrictions
• Claim submission deadlines

If you’re not sure what something means, contact the insurer’s support team for clarity—don’t assume.

4. Declare Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Many people skip this and risk claim rejections. Declare any known conditions, and see if your insurer:

• Automatically covers it
• Requires a medical assessment
• Offers cover with an added premium

5. Look for Helpful Features

Modern insurers often offer extras like:

• Mobile apps for easy claims
• 24/7 emergency assistance
• Access to digital policy wallets and support while abroad

These may seem small, but they make a big difference during stressful moments.

Smart Checklist Before You Buy

✅ Are medical expenses and evacuation included?
✅ Is there cover for lost/stolen baggage and travel documents?
✅ Do you need extras like rental car excess or cruise cover?
✅ Have you declared all relevant health conditions?
✅ Does the policy support your destination’s COVID-19 requirements?

10. Travel Insurance for COVID-19: What’s Covered Now?

While borders have reopened and travel has rebounded, COVID-19 is still a real concern—and not all travel insurance policies treat it the same. If you’re travelling to or from Australia in 2025, it’s crucial to know what COVID-19-related events are covered—and what still isn’t.

Is COVID-19 Still Covered by Travel Insurance in Australia?

Yes—but with conditions. Most Australian travel insurers now include some form of pandemic-related cover, but the level of protection varies between providers.

Common COVID-19 Inclusions in 2025

Covered Event	Typically Included?	Notes
Testing positive before departure	✅ Yes	Trip cancellation cover often applies
Medical treatment abroad due to COVID-19	✅ Yes	Hospital and treatment costs covered (limits apply)
Quarantine costs overseas	⚠️ Sometimes	Only if medically necessary or government-mandated
Trip interruption due to illness	✅ Yes	Includes flight changes, accommodation, and rebooking
Border closures or government lockdowns	❌ Rarely	Most policies exclude blanket travel bans or shutdowns

What’s Usually Not Covered (Even in 2025)

• Lockdowns or border closures announced after you depart
• Travel delays due to airline staff shortages or re-routing
• Voluntary trip cancellations due to “fear of travel”
• Unvaccinated travellers (in some policies)

Pro tip: Some premium policies now offer “cancel for any reason” cover, but at a higher cost.

What to Look for in a COVID-19 Travel Insurance Policy

1. Clear cancellation coverage terms – Does it include your flights, hotel, and prepaid tours?
2. Medical and quarantine expense limits – Are they enough to cover extended hotel stays or private healthcare?
3. Telehealth options – Some insurers offer virtual doctor consultations while abroad.
4. 24/7 multilingual support – Helpful if you get sick overseas and need urgent assistance.

COVID-19 Cover by Popular Providers in Australia (2025 Snapshot)

Provider	COVID Medical Cover	Quarantine Support	Cancellation Due to COVID
Cover-More	✅ Yes	⚠️ Optional add-on	✅ Yes
Allianz	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes
Southern Cross	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
NIB	✅ Yes	⚠️ Limited	✅ Yes

Disclaimer: Coverage terms may change—check the latest policy wording before purchasing.

11. Compare Policies: What’s Covered by Major Australian Travel Insurance Providers

With so many insurers offering travel cover in Australia, it helps to see the differences side-by-side. This section gives you a quick-glance comparison table of what the leading providers offer in 2025, so you can make an informed decision based on coverage, value, and peace of mind.

What We Compared

• Medical emergency cover
• Trip cancellation & delays
• COVID-19 coverage
• Lost/stolen baggage
• Adventure sports or cruise options
• 24/7 support availability
• Claim turnaround speed

Travel Insurance Comparison Table (2025)

Feature / Provider	Cover-More	Allianz	Southern Cross	NIB Travel	Fast Cover
Emergency Medical	✅ Unlimited	✅ Up to $5M	✅ Unlimited	✅ Up to $10M	✅ Unlimited
Trip Cancellation	✅ Up to $10K	✅ Tiered by plan	✅ Up to $50K	✅ Optional add-on	✅ Up to $30K
COVID-19 Coverage	✅ Yes (add-on)	✅ Yes (basic & mid)	✅ Yes (included)	✅ Yes (some limits)	✅ Yes (included)
Lost Luggage	✅ Up to $15K	✅ Up to $12K	✅ Up to $25K	✅ Up to $10K	✅ Up to $15K
Adventure Sports	⚠️ Optional add-on	⚠️ Limited	⚠️ Add-on required	✅ Many activities covered	✅ Broad coverage
Cruise Cover	✅ Cruise-specific plans	⚠️ Often excluded	✅ Add-on available	✅ Yes (with conditions)	✅ Included in premium
24/7 Emergency Support	✅ Global hotline	✅ Global hotline	✅ Local & global	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Claim Turnaround Time	⏱️ 7–10 business days	⏱️ 10–15 business days	⏱️ 5–7 business days	⏱️ Varies by claim	⏱️ 5–10 business days

Note: Figures are general estimates based on current 2025 offerings. Always check the provider’s Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for the latest details.

Key Takeaways

• Cover-More is best for those needing premium, unlimited coverage with cruise and activity options.
• Southern Cross offers high-value limits at lower prices—ideal for families or long-term trips.
• Fast Cover shines for adventurous travellers needing broad protection for gear and sports.
• NIB is solid for those with pre-existing medical needs and offers great flexibility.
• Allianz is a strong choice for business travellers needing fast access and consistent support.

12. FAQs: Travel Insurance in Australia

Do I need travel insurance to visit Australia?

Yes, it’s strongly recommended.
While not mandatory for most tourists, travel insurance is essential since Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare) does not cover international visitors. A medical emergency can cost thousands without coverage.

Is travel insurance mandatory for student visas in Australia?

Yes, for most student visa holders.
You must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. However, OSHC does not cover trip cancellations, lost baggage, or travel delays, so an additional travel insurance policy is still advisable.

Does Medicare cover Australian citizens when they travel overseas?

No.
Medicare only covers you within Australia. If you’re travelling abroad, you’ll need international travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, evacuation, or trip interruptions.

Can I buy travel insurance after I’ve started my trip?

It depends.
Some providers allow you to buy a policy after departure, but it’s much more limited and may include a waiting period. It’s best to purchase before your trip starts to get full coverage.

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19 in 2025?

Most insurers now include COVID-19 coverage, such as:

• Medical treatment if you catch the virus while travelling
• Cancellations due to a positive test before departure
• Quarantine expenses (case-by-case)

Always check the PDS, as coverage terms vary between providers.

Is travel insurance worth it for domestic trips within Australia?

Yes, in many cases.
Domestic travel insurance can cover:

• Flight cancellations
• Lost or delayed baggage
• Rental car excess
• Unexpected medical costs not covered by Medicare (e.g., ambulance, private treatment)

It’s especially useful for interstate business trips, weddings, or expensive holiday bookings.

How do I know if my activity is covered (e.g., skiing, diving)?

Check your insurer’s list of included and excluded activities.
Many adventure sports require add-ons or higher-tier plans. Commonly excluded activities without upgrades:

• Scuba diving
• Snowboarding
• Rock climbing
• Skydiving

Pro tip: If in doubt, ask for written confirmation before buying.

Useful Resources & Further Reading

• Smartraveller.gov.au – Australian Government Travel Advice
• CHOICE Travel Insurance Reviews (Australia)
• How to Read a Travel Insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)
• Travel Insurance Claims: What Documents You’ll Need