Top Health Insurance Plans in Australia (2025 Guide for Expats & Locals)

Australia is known for its high-quality healthcare system, with both public and private options available to residents. The Medicare system provides access to essential services for Australian citizens and permanent residents, but many choose private health insurance for faster access to treatments and broader coverage.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best health insurance plans in Australia for 2025, covering both public and private options to help you make the best choice for your health and budget.

1. Bupa – Best for Comprehensive Coverage

Bupa Australia is one of the leading private health insurance providers, offering a range of comprehensive plans that cover hospital stays, surgeries, outpatient services, and mental health support. They are well-known for providing excellent customer service and flexibility in their plans.

  • Pros: Wide coverage options, mental health and dental care, great customer support

  • Ideal for: Families, expats, and individuals seeking full coverage

  • Monthly cost: Starts from approximately $120, depending on plan and age

2. Medibank – Best for Affordable Coverage

Medibank is another top private health insurer in Australia, known for its affordable and reliable coverage. It offers a variety of hospital and extras packages that can be tailored to meet your needs, including options for dental, optical, and physiotherapy care.

  • Pros: Affordable options, no-gap agreements with doctors, digital tools for managing claims

  • Ideal for: Individuals and families on a budget, those looking for a straightforward plan

  • Monthly cost: Starting from $100, depending on coverage and age

3. HCF – Best for Extra Benefits and Rewards

HCF offers great value for money with a focus on extras and wellness services. Along with basic hospital cover, HCF provides rewards programs, health assessments, and discounts on various health services like dental care and fitness programs.

  • Pros: Strong rewards program, good extras cover, no-gap dental care

  • Ideal for: Families, those seeking additional wellness benefits, and budget-conscious individuals

  • Monthly cost: Around $120 for basic cover

4. NIB – Best for Customizable Plans

NIB Health Insurance provides flexible and customizable health insurance plans, giving you the ability to mix and match coverage based on your needs. NIB is ideal for individuals looking for the flexibility to choose different levels of cover for hospital and extras services.

  • Pros: Customizable plans, 24/7 customer support, fast claims processing

  • Ideal for: Expats, students, and those who want flexible coverage

  • Monthly cost: Starts from $95, depending on plan and coverage level

5. Australian Unity – Best for Family-Friendly Coverage

Australian Unity is a health insurer focused on providing value for families and individuals looking for comprehensive health cover. They offer a range of plans that include hospital, extras, and dental coverage, and they also focus on health and wellness programs.

  • Pros: Family-friendly plans, easy claims process, discounts on wellness services

  • Ideal for: Families, parents, and individuals looking for extra health benefits

  • Monthly cost: Starting from $105

6. CUA Health – Best for Essential Hospital Coverage

CUA Health offers affordable hospital cover with essential services like inpatient care, surgeries, and emergency treatment. It’s a great option for those looking for essential health coverage without paying for extras.

  • Pros: Affordable, good hospital cover, no-gap agreement with medical providers

  • Ideal for: Young professionals, those looking for essential health cover

  • Monthly cost: Around $85 for basic cover

 

7. Star Health – Best for Seniors

Star Health provides a range of health insurance plans, but it’s especially popular among seniors who need reliable cover for aged care and hospital stays. They offer a variety of policies with tailored benefits to meet the needs of older Australians.

  • Pros: Specialized coverage for older individuals, strong aged care options, good customer service

  • Ideal for: Seniors, retirees, and individuals over 50

  • Monthly cost: Starting at $120, depending on age and coverage level

Public vs Private Health Insurance in Australia

FeatureMedicare (Public)Private Health Insurance
CostFree for citizens and permanent residentsMonthly premiums, depends on age and plan
CoverageBasic hospital, doctor visits, prescriptionsExtensive hospital and extras cover
AccessWaiting times for elective proceduresFaster access to treatments, specialists
Family CoverageBasic cover for dependentsSeparate plans for each family member
ExtrasLimitedWide range of extras (dental, optical, physiotherapy)

Conclusion

Choosing the best health insurance plan in Australia depends on your specific needs, whether you’re seeking comprehensive coverage or just essential health services. For full coverage, Bupa, Medibank, and HCF are top choices. If you’re looking for more affordable options or extras coverage, NIB, CUA Health, and Australian Unity provide excellent plans at a great price.

Before selecting a plan, make sure to compare the available options, coverage details, and premiums. Don’t forget to check if extras like dental and optical care are included, as these can be valuable additions to your health insurance plan.