Understanding Medicare and Healthcare for Overseas Students in Australia
Australia’s health system may be confusing for new overseas students. Let’s untangle all you need to know about getting medical treatment while you study.
What is Medicare and Who Can Use It?
Medicare is Australia’s public health care system offering subsidized or free treatment for citizens and permanent residents. Nonetheless, you as an international student will not have automatic coverage in Medicare. Instead, you will be required to obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – this is compulsory health insurance specifically tailored for students such as yourself.
Why OSHC is So Important
Imagine becoming ill or getting into an accident overseas without the right insurance – the hospital bills may be astronomical! OSHC keeps you safe from these unforeseen expenses. It includes:
Consultations with doctors
Hospital care
Certain prescription drugs
Emergency ambulance
Who Absolutely Needs OSHC?
The Australian immigration policy is very specific about the following:
All international students with a student visa
Any accompanying family (spouse or children)
You must maintain coverage from arrival until your visa expires
The Lucky Exceptions
Students from these countries might not need OSHC:
Belgium – Their government has a special health agreement with Australia
Sweden – If covered by their National Board of Student Aid
Norway – Covered by their national insurance scheme
Understanding OSHC Costs
Pricing depends on:
Your chosen provider
Length of coverage
Type of cover (individual, couple, or family)
Any pre-existing conditions
Average Annual Costs:
Single student: About A$450
Student + partner: Approximately A$2,700
Family coverage: Roughly A$4,000
How to Get Covered
Most universities make it simple by:
Offering to do it for you (they have preferred providers they use)
Allowing you to select your own insurer if you’d prefer
Top Insurance Providers:
Allianz (via Lysaght Peoplecare)
Australian Health Management
BUPA
Medibank Private
nib OSHC
What Medical Services Are Included?
With OSHC, you can access:
Doctor consultations
Hospital care
Some operations
Limited medications
Emergency treatment
Ambulance services
What’s NOT Usually Covered?
Standard OSHC doesn’t cover:
Dental check-ups or treatments
Eye test or glasses
Physiotherapy
For these, you’ll require additional insurance.
Important Reminders:
Organise OSHC BEFORE departing home
Keep it active for your entire stay
If transferring schools, make sure no gaps in coverage
Always have your membership details with you
Last Tip: Ask your university international student office – they usually have specialist advisors to deal with questions over health insurance!
