If you get sick or injured while visiting Australia

Getting medical help

If you’re sick or injured in Australia there is health care available. Find out more about seeking medical help.

Reciprocal health care agreements

If you’re from a country that Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with, you may be able to get help with the cost of health care in Australia. 

Find out more about reciprocal health care agreements on the Services Australia website.

Travel and health insurance

Sometimes, travel doesn’t go to plan. Travel insurance is as important as your passport. Without it, you or your family could suffer financially if things go wrong.

Travel insurance might pay for some of your medical care if you get sick or injured while in Australia. To avoid unexpected costs, make sure you’re aware of what your travel insurance covers. Talk to your provider about what is covered.

Adequate health insurance for visa holders

Most visitors to Australia don’t have access to the public Medicare system in Australia. This means you will be responsible for the health costs if you get sick or injured.

The Department of Home Affairs recommends visitors plan to pay for health insurance to make sure they’re covered.  

Find out more about adequate health insurance for visa holders on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Overseas Visitor Health Cover

Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) is a type of health insurance for international visitors in Australia.

OVHC can help pay for medical costs if you can’t access the Medicare.

You may need OVHC cover to apply for some visas. Find out more about Overseas Visitor Health Cover on the Private Health website.