Compare travel insurance for Australia
Hundreds of thousands of Brits visit Australia every year. If you’re thinking of joining them, you’ll need to consider travel insurance for your trip down under.
Hundreds of thousands of Brits visit Australia every year. If you’re thinking of joining them, you’ll need to consider travel insurance for your trip down under.
Do I need travel insurance for Australia?
We strongly recommend it in case you have an emergency while you’re over 9,000 miles from home.
If your flight gets cancelled or delayed or your luggage is stolen, travel insurance can help cover your costs. It could also cover your medical costs if you feel ill or have an accident.
How much is travel insurance for Australia?
The cost of travel insurance for Australia varies depending on your age, how long you’re going for, whether or not you have any health conditions and the type of activities you plan on doing.
A long-stay trip, for example, will be more expensive than a short one as you’re abroad for longer. Who you want to insure can also impact the amount you pay – travel insurance for your family is likely to cost more than insurance for just one person.
To find out how much it will cost you, start comparing travel insurance quotes now.
Compare travel insuranceCustomers with pre-existing medical conditions
If you have a serious health condition, your travel insurance is likely to be more expensive. Whatever happens, tell your insurance provider the truth. If you give false information or miss something out, your claim could be rejected.
When you declare any medical conditions on our website, we’ll only show you quotes from insurance providers that will cover them with no exclusions.
If your condition is more serious, MoneyHelper has a directory of insurance providers who may be able to provide quotes over the phone. You can call them on 0800 138 7777.
Healthcare in Australia
If you’re a British national, you can access medical care in essential or urgent situations through the UK-Australia Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement.
You’re entitled to limited subsidised medical treatment via the Australian Medicare scheme, for any necessary treatments while travelling. However, Medicare doesn't cover everything, such as pre-existing conditions or use of ambulance services, so it’s not a substitute for travel insurance. Find out how to enrol in Medicare through Services Australia.
Travel insurance for Australia can cover unexpected medical expenses, repatriation (returning to the UK) and other emergencies. Without it, you could face significant out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare. In a medical emergency while in Australia, call 000 for ambulance, fire, or police services. It’s also a good idea to contact your travel insurance provider following an emergency, for guidance on the next steps.
What will Australia travel insurance cover?
For many, a holiday in Oz is the trip of a lifetime. To help you enjoy it to the full, make sure your Australia travel insurance covers you for:
- Medical expenses – if you fall ill or have an accident, the last thing you want is to be faced with hefty medical bills. Your policy should cover the cost of any medical treatment as well as repatriation back to the UK for treatment.
- Flight cancellation – your travel insurance for Australia may provide cover if you have to cancel your flight. Check the policy to make sure cover for missed connections is also included.
- Lost, stolen or damaged luggage and passports – your policy should cover you for replacing clothes, medicine, gadgets and toiletries if your luggage is damaged, lost or stolen.
- Holiday cancellation – if your holiday is cancelled, delayed or shortened unexpectedly, you can claim for some expenses.
What won’t Australia travel insurance cover?
Your insurance can cover you for many unexpected events, but to avoid nasty surprises, check any exclusions ahead of your trip to Australia. Here are some of the things to look out for:
- Undeclared pre-existing medical conditions – your travel insurance for Australia won’t cover any pre-existing conditions you haven’t declared. When you compare with us, make sure you tell us about any pre-existing conditions and we’ll only show you policies that will cover you.
- Injuries or accidents from uncovered activities – Australia is a popular spot for high-adrenaline activities such as bungee-jumping, skydiving and white-water rafting to name but a few. If you’re going to be taking part in adventure sports, make sure all the activities you want to do are covered by your policy.
- Incidents related to alcohol abuse – Australia is known for its vibrant drinking culture, so it’s important to drink responsibly. If you’re injured or lose something while under the influence, your claim could be rejected.
What activities will I be covered for?
When choosing your travel insurance for Australia, it's important to consider the types of activities you plan to participate in. To make sure you have the right level of cover for your holiday, you might want to look at:
- Extreme sports cover – Australia offers thrilling extreme sports such as bungee jumping in Cairns and skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef. Ensure your policy covers these high-adrenaline activities.
- Adventure sports – If you're into adventure sports, Australia has plenty to offer, including white-water rafting in Tasmania and rock climbing in the Blue Mountains. Make sure your insurance covers these activities.
- Water sports insurance – Australia is famous for its water sports. From surfing in Bondi Beach to diving in the Great Barrier Reef, ensure your policy includes coverage for these water-based activities.
- Winter sports insurance – Head to the snowy mountains in New South Wales or the Victorian Alps for skiing and snowboarding. If you plan on hitting the slopes, be sure to check that your policy covers winter sports.
- Golf insurance – Enjoy a round of golf in the sun at some of Australia's top golf courses, such as those in the Gold Coast or Melbourne. Make sure your policy includes golf insurance.
Backpacking
If you are considering a backpacking trip around Australia, it could be worth exploring backpacker insurance to cover you on your travels.
Choosing this route of travel offers a unique way to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of Australia, with popular routes moving through the famous sights of Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef and the Outback.
Safety is paramount when backpacking, so it's essential to follow local safety advice and always let someone know your travel plans, especially if you're heading into remote areas.
Do I need a visa for Australia?
Yes, British citizens will need a visa. You can apply online in two ways:
- eVisitor visa – is free and you can apply direct to Australia’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
- ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) – this can be obtained through the iOS or Android app. There is usually a service fee but no visa application charge.
You can find more details about entry requirements for Australia, including rules on vaccines on the GOV.UK website.
Risks of travelling in Australia
While Australia is generally a safe destination, it's important to be aware of potential risks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
- Crime – Australia has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries, but it's still important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious in unfamiliar surroundings.
- Weather – Australia's diverse climate poses various risks for travellers, including heatwaves in the Outback, tropical cyclones in the north, and unexpected cold snaps in the south. Bushfires are common during the dry season, and flash floods can occur after heavy rains. Always check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly.
- Wildlife – Australia is home to lots of unique wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, snakes and spiders. While fascinating, some animals can be dangerous. Stay informed about local wildlife, adhere to safety guidelines, and respect the animals' space.
- Swimming safety – Australia's stunning beaches and local rivers are a dream destination, but water activities can pose a risk. Marine life, strong currents and rip tides are all significant hazards. Be sure to scope out local safety advice and signage and opt for patrolled beaches.
Driving
Road tripping around Australia is a popular choice for many travellers but there are some key considerations to keep in mind whilst driving down under.
- Driving side – In Australia, like the UK, people drive on the left-hand side of the road. This should make the transition easier for British drivers.
- Alcohol limits – Australia has strict drink driving laws with a legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%, lower than the UK's 0.08%. Random breath tests are common and penalties are severe, including fines, licence suspension and imprisonment. It's best not to drive if you plan to drink.
- Road conditions – Australia's road conditions can vary greatly. In cities, roads are generally well-maintained, but in rural and remote areas, you may encounter unsealed roads, wildlife and long stretches without fuel stations. Always plan your route and ensure your vehicle is suitable for the journey.
Other travel tips
Here are a few facts about Australia to help you on your way:
- Language – English – although some words won’t mean what you think they mean: ‘bathers’ are swimming costumes, ‘thongs’ are flip flops and ‘strides’ are trousers. Australians also have unique slang, so don’t be surprised if you hear phrases like “fair dinkum” (genuine) or “arvo” (afternoon).
- Currency – The currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD). It's advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
- Time zones – There are three: Eastern (GMT+10), Central (GMT+9:30) and Western (GMT+8). Be mindful of these time differences when travelling across the country, as they can affect your travel plans and communication with others.
Frequently asked questions
Can I extend my travel insurance?
Yes, many providers will let you extend your cover if you decide to make your holiday last a little longer. If you’re not sure how long you’ll continue to stay in Australia, a long stay policy may be best.
When is the best time to visit Australia?
March-May is autumn time in Australia and September-November is spring. These are the best times to visit Australia as the weather isn’t too hot or too cold.
What travel insurance do I need for Australia?
When travelling to Australia, get travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost belongings and any planned activities. Ensure the policy includes medical emergencies, repatriation and any high-risk activities you are planning.
Where can I compare travel insurance quotes?
Whether you’re looking to go to Australia alone or are buying travel cover for you and your family, our comparison service will make it easy for you to find great deals. Compare travel insurance costs today and get a quote in minutes.
Anna McEntee – Home, travel and pet insurance expert
Anna’s all about delivering fantastic insurance products at a great price. Value is the most important thing for Anna, as she cuts through the jargon and finds what’s most important and worth your hard-earned money.
This article is written by a Compare the Market expert, backed by data and enhanced by AI. Find out how we ensure accuracy and quality in our Editorial Guidelines.