- The best travel insurance plans for Australia
- Is it currently safe to travel to Australia?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Australia?
- Why take out travel insurance for Australia?
- What should travel insurance for Australia cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Australia
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Australia
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Australia?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Australia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Australia covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory, but you are liable for all medical costs without it.
3. Healthcare cost: A hospital night in Australia can cost over $1,800 CAD for foreign visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Australia typically costs between $40 and $80 CAD.
5. Good to know: Canada has a health agreement with Australia, but it offers very limited emergency coverage.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Australia.
The best travel insurance plans for Australia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.5M CA$ | Our top choice for Australia. - very high medical reimbursement - strong repatriation coverage - detailed hospital support |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.5M CA$ | Reliable for trips to Australia. - 24/7 helpline - covers cancellation - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | 750K CA$ | Good value for tourists. - solid medical package - emergency support - competitive rates |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.1M CA$ | Balanced protection for varied trips. - repatriation included - hospital expenses covered - large geographical scope |
| Globe Partner | 450K CA$ | Suitable for longer stays. - medical care abroad - repatriation available - fast claims process |
| Globe Traveller | 750K CA$ | Simple and affordable for shorter trips. - basic medical coverage - quick reimbursement - coverage cap adapted to tourist needs |
- very high medical reimbursement
- strong repatriation coverage
- detailed hospital support
- 24/7 helpline
- covers cancellation
- no deductible
- solid medical package
- emergency support
- competitive rates
- repatriation included
- hospital expenses covered
- large geographical scope
- medical care abroad
- repatriation available
- fast claims process
- basic medical coverage
- quick reimbursement
- coverage cap adapted to tourist needs
Is it currently safe to travel to Australia?
As of June 2025, Global Affairs Canada states that normal security precautions apply for travel to Australia. There are no general warnings or restrictions for Canadian travellers visiting Australia.
- Security risks: petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in busy tourist areas such as Sydney’s Central Station or Melbourne’s CBD. Travellers should remain alert, especially when using public transport or visiting crowded beaches.
- Health risks: public health hazards include mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever in Northern Queensland, as well as the presence of rabies in bats. Canadian visitors usually must pay in full at private clinics, and access to the Australian public health system is limited.
- Visa and entry formalities: Canadians must apply in advance for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) through the official Australian ETA app. Incomplete travel documents can lead to denied boarding, delays, or refusal of entry at airports.
- Environmental and wildlife dangers: Australia is known for sudden weather changes, cyclones in northern regions, and hazardous animals like jellyfish in Queensland or snakes in rural New South Wales. Always follow local warnings and signage.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Australia.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Australia?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian citizens to enter Australia.
While travel insurance is not a legal entry requirement, it is highly recommended by both Canadian and Australian authorities because foreign visitors are personally responsible for all medical expenses. Private medical care in Australia can be expensive and payment is required in advance for most services.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Australia. This high rate reflects the high cost of healthcare and the limited access to the local public health system for visitors.
Why take out travel insurance for Australia?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Australia.
In Australia, foreign visitors do not have access to Medicare and must use private clinics or hospitals such as St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney or Epworth Hospital in Melbourne, where treatment costs are high and pre-payment is often required. Even basic emergencies or hospitalization can quickly amount to several thousand dollars.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to Canada if a serious incident occurs.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Australia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | AUD 4,200 (approx. 3,750 CA$) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | AUD 3,500 (approx. 3,125 CA$) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | AUD 85,000 (approx. 75,000 CA$) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | AUD 18,000 (approx. 15,900 CA$) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Australia cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers costs of hospital care, consultations, surgeries, and medication following illness or accident. Recommended limit: at least CA$250,000. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for emergency repatriation to Canada or transfer to another hospital in Australia if needed. Recommended limit: at least CA$500,000. |
| 💊 Prescription drugs | Reimburses costs of necessary medications prescribed while abroad. Recommended limit: at least CA$10,000. |
| 🏨 Hospitalization | Daily allowances for prolonged hospital stays, covering extras not included in basic care. Recommended limit: at least CA$10,000. |
| 🛫 Trip interruption/cancellation | Covers non-refundable costs if you must cancel or cut short your trip for covered reasons. Recommended limit: at least CA$7,500. |
| 🧳 Baggage insurance | Provides compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage. Recommended limit: at least CA$2,000. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Protects in case you unintentionally injure someone or damage property. Recommended limit: at least CA$1 million. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental | Covers treatment for dental accidents or urgent pain relief. Recommended limit: at least CA$2,000. |
Recommended limit: at least CA$250,000.
Recommended limit: at least CA$500,000.
Recommended limit: at least CA$10,000.
Recommended limit: at least CA$10,000.
Recommended limit: at least CA$7,500.
Recommended limit: at least CA$2,000.
Recommended limit: at least CA$1 million.
Recommended limit: at least CA$2,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often provides limited coverage, with low limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer offering full coverage. Compare the best plans on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Australia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$35 – CA$55 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$55 – CA$90 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$85 – CA$145 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$190 – CA$320 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance for Australia is influenced by several key factors. These include your age, the duration of your trip, the level of coverage you select, any pre-existing medical conditions, and optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Considering these elements will help you find a suitable policy that fits your budget and needs.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Australia
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Australia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Insurance costs rise with longer stays, and Canada–Australia trips can cover weeks or months. | Only insure the dates you are abroad. Avoid covering days outside those actually spent in Australia. Adjust your dates to fit your trip. |
| 👥 Traveller's age | Older travelers are typically charged higher rates by most insurers. | Compare plans from several insurers. The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🌏 Geographical coverage | Worldwide coverage is pricier than regional or country-specific coverage for Australia. | Choose Australia + Pacific zone only for your destination, not worldwide, for significant savings. |
| 🛫 Level of coverage | High medical and assistance limits are important for Australia, but excess limits raise costs. | Select a plan with medical coverage of at least CA$100,000 to keep your premium reasonable and still high protection. |
| 🧳 Baggage insurance | Covering many valuables increases premiums when visiting Australia. | Insure only essentials and key valuables, and avoid electronics insurance unless truly needed. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Family or group | Family policies can lower the price for multiple travelers visiting Australia together. | Request a group or family policy instead of individual coverage for each member to save money. |
| 🕶️ Activity coverage | Adding sports/adventure cover for Australia increases premiums, even if rarely needed. | Avoid adventure sport add-ons unless you intend to participate in risky sports or hazardous activities. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Australia?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public health system—can protect you during a trip to Australia. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient for international travel and medical care. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Australia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (provincial health plan) | Never | No coverage for care abroad, no payment for hospitalizations, consultations, or prescriptions | Travel insurance covers up to CA$1,000,000–CA$2,000,000 in medical, hospital, and evacuation expenses. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Possible partial refund after returning to Canada, rarely covers emergency evacuation, limits apply | Travel insurance insures up to CA$2,000,000 on-site, covers hospitalization, repatriation, and direct payments. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Limited coverage | Medical costs below CA$10,000–CA$30,000, generally no trip cancellation, excess, or repatriation included | Travel insurance offers much higher limits (CA$1,000,000+) and includes lost luggage, cancellation, and 24/7 support. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, World Elite Mastercard) | Limited coverage | Medical expenses below CA$100,000–CA$200,000, some delays, rare baggage or trip interruptions | Travel insurance covers CA$1,000,000+, including urgent medical evacuation, delay compensation, and full baggage coverage. |
Example
While snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, Chloe was stung by a Box Jellyfish. Her emergency care and hospitalization cost over $35,000 CAD. Her RBC Avion card's insurance had a low limit, and provincial health care didn't cover the full private patient fees, leaving her with a massive bill.
Expert advice
Essential coverage like trip interruption for a relative’s illness is often excluded from bank cards and provincial health plans. Always check your existing policies' conditions to avoid surprises. In all cases, buying dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip is safer and more reassuring.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Australia?
Yes, Canadian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for short visits to Australia, including tourism and business trips of up to 90 days. The ETA must be obtained before travel using the official Australian ETA app, and your passport must be valid on the day you enter Australia. The ETA application costs about CA$18.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Australia?
1/ Compare: Use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review Canadian plans for Australia.
2/ Check cover and exclusions: Look for key benefits like medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation; check any exclusions regarding activities or pre-existing conditions.
3/ Buy online: Complete your purchase on the insurance provider’s secure website.
4/ Receive your certificate: You’ll get your policy confirmation and documents directly by email.
Does the Australia reciprocal health agreement cover all my medical costs?
The Canada–Australia agreement covers some emergency medical treatment in Australia but is limited, often excluding prescriptions, ambulance, and ongoing care. Without comprehensive travel insurance, you could be responsible for high out-of-pocket expenses that may exceed CA$10,000 even for minor hospital stays or procedures.
Should I buy travel insurance before or after booking my trip to Australia?
It is best to buy travel insurance as soon as your non-refundable expenses, such as flights or hotels, are booked. Early purchase ensures you are covered for cancellation, interruptions, and other unforeseen events that may occur before your departure, in addition to your medical protection during your trip.
Are there health risks in Australia that travel insurance should cover?
Australia has good healthcare, but medical treatment for visitors can be expensive. Key health risks include injury from outdoor activities, venomous animals, and mosquito-borne diseases like dengue in northern regions. Your travel insurance should provide at least CA$1,000,000 in medical coverage as well as evacuation and 24/7 assistance.
Can I extend my travel insurance from Australia if my stay is longer than planned?
Some insurers allow policy extensions while you are already in Australia, but others may require returning to Canada for a renewal. Always check your insurance provider’s extension policy before departure and contact them directly if you expect your stay to last longer than planned.
Do I need a visa to travel to Australia?
Yes, Canadian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for short visits to Australia, including tourism and business trips of up to 90 days. The ETA must be obtained before travel using the official Australian ETA app, and your passport must be valid on the day you enter Australia. The ETA application costs about CA$18.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Australia?
1/ Compare: Use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review Canadian plans for Australia.
2/ Check cover and exclusions: Look for key benefits like medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation; check any exclusions regarding activities or pre-existing conditions.
3/ Buy online: Complete your purchase on the insurance provider’s secure website.
4/ Receive your certificate: You’ll get your policy confirmation and documents directly by email.
Does the Australia reciprocal health agreement cover all my medical costs?
The Canada–Australia agreement covers some emergency medical treatment in Australia but is limited, often excluding prescriptions, ambulance, and ongoing care. Without comprehensive travel insurance, you could be responsible for high out-of-pocket expenses that may exceed CA$10,000 even for minor hospital stays or procedures.
Should I buy travel insurance before or after booking my trip to Australia?
It is best to buy travel insurance as soon as your non-refundable expenses, such as flights or hotels, are booked. Early purchase ensures you are covered for cancellation, interruptions, and other unforeseen events that may occur before your departure, in addition to your medical protection during your trip.
Are there health risks in Australia that travel insurance should cover?
Australia has good healthcare, but medical treatment for visitors can be expensive. Key health risks include injury from outdoor activities, venomous animals, and mosquito-borne diseases like dengue in northern regions. Your travel insurance should provide at least CA$1,000,000 in medical coverage as well as evacuation and 24/7 assistance.
Can I extend my travel insurance from Australia if my stay is longer than planned?
Some insurers allow policy extensions while you are already in Australia, but others may require returning to Canada for a renewal. Always check your insurance provider’s extension policy before departure and contact them directly if you expect your stay to last longer than planned.
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