Don't leave Australia without it. Here's what you need to know.
Medicare does not cover you overseas (except in a few countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements, and even then, only for essential treatment). A medical emergency overseas without insurance can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. A medical evacuation flight from a remote area can cost $50,000-$100,000+. Travel health insurance is not optional — it's essential.
Not all travel insurance is equal. For health coverage, check for: unlimited or high-cap medical cover (at least $1 million), medical evacuation and repatriation cover, cover for pre-existing conditions if relevant, 24/7 emergency assistance hotline, cover for hospital admission and surgery, and cover for dental emergencies.
If you're engaging in adventure activities (trekking, diving, motorbike riding), check that your policy covers these specifically — many standard policies exclude them.
This is critical if you're travelling to countries with limited medical facilities — think Papua New Guinea, remote parts of Africa, Nepal, or small Pacific islands. Medical evacuation can mean an air ambulance to the nearest hospital with appropriate facilities, or repatriation back to Australia. Without insurance, you pay the full cost.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you must declare it when purchasing travel insurance. Some policies exclude pre-existing conditions entirely. Others will cover them for an additional premium. Failure to declare a pre-existing condition can void your entire policy — not just the claim related to that condition.
The Australian Government's Smartraveller website strongly recommends travel insurance for all overseas travel. They advise checking your policy covers your specific destination, planned activities, and the full duration of your trip. Check their website for current advice.
Last updated: April 2026