OVHC for Australia: Protect Yourself and Your Finances

If you’re planning to visit Australia, securing Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) should be a top priority. OVHC is specialised health insurance designed to cover medical and hospital expenses if you become ill or injured during your stay in Australia.

Why OVHC is Essential for Visitors

OVHC is particularly crucial for international visitors who aren’t eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public health insurance system. While Medicare provides comprehensive coverage for Australian citizens and permanent residents, temporary visitors are generally excluded from this system, regardless of their home country’s healthcare arrangements.

Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements Have Gaps

Even visitors from countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements with Australia should strongly consider OVHC. Australia maintains these agreements with the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Malta, Italy, Belgium, Slovenia, and the Netherlands. However, these agreements typically cover only emergency and immediately necessary medical treatment, leaving significant gaps in coverage.

⚠️ What Reciprocal Agreements Don't Cover

essential services like dental care (except emergency dental surgery requiring hospitalisation), optical services and prescription glasses, physiotherapy and allied health treatments, private hospital accommodation, or ambulance services in most Australian states. This means even covered visitors could face substantial out-of-pocket expenses for common medical needs.

The Reality of Australian Healthcare Costs

Without insurance, medical costs in Australia can be financially devastating for visitors.

Typical Costs Without Insurance

Emergency Visit

$600 - $1,500

Hospital Night

$1,500 - $3,000

Ambulance

$500 - $1,200

** Depending on your location and the distance

Broken Bone Treatment

$5,000 - $10,000 +

** Requiring X-rays, treatment, and overnight observation

Covers & Policies

What OVHC Covers

Comprehensive Policies Include

More comprehensive policies extend coverage to routine dental care, optical services including prescription glasses, physiotherapy and allied health services, and private hospital accommodation options. Some premium policies also include coverage for pre-existing medical conditions and higher benefit limits.

Choose Your Coverage Level

Basic OVHC

$1-$3/day

Perfect for: Short-term visitors seeking fundamental protection

Comprehensive OVHC

$5-$8/day

Perfect for: Longer stays, travelers, or those wanting peace of mind

Key Benefits and Purchasing Process

OVHC provides crucial financial protection, preventing potentially expensive medical bills from impacting your finances long after your visit ends. It ensures access to Australia’s excellent healthcare facilities without delay and offers peace of mind to fully enjoy your Australian experience.

How to Purchase OVHC

Purchase OVHC before arriving in Australia, as most policies include waiting periods for non-emergency treatments, and coverage cannot be purchased after an incident occurs.

Where to Buy

Research approved OVHC providers through:

Comparison Website

Australian health insurers

Licensed travel agents

Compare different providers and policy levels carefully, reading the Product

Disclosure Statement to understand coverage limits, waiting periods, and exclusions.

Selection Considerations

When making your selection, consider your planned activities, length of stay, age, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Keep your policy documents easily accessible throughout your visit, and save your insurer’s emergency contact numbers in your phone.

Don't leave your health and finances to chance.

Secure OVHC before your Australian adventure to ensure you’re protected from unexpected medical costs. This small daily investment can save you thousands of dollars and provide invaluable peace of mind during your visit.

Free +61-2-7257 7924

Overseas Visitor Health Cover