Medical System and Insurance
Medical System in Australia
Australia's health system is widely recognised as world class. A leader in quality healthcare delivery, education and research (the latter two with a traditionally strong international focus), Australia has produced an industry culture that truly values international experience.
Australia's robust private health sector is complemented by a universal public health system called Medicare. The way in which these 2 sectors have been combined and balanced ensures quality care and choice for all Australians.
The Australian Government, through the Department of Health and Ageing, sets national health policies and subsidises the health services provided by State and Territory governments and the private sector. Their funding range includes universal medical services and pharmaceuticals, financial assistance for public hospitals, residential care facilities, hostels, home and community care, and support for training of health professionals and tertiary students. The Australian Government is also the major source of funding for health research.
International students wishing to obtain a student visa to study in Australia are required to have a medical examination as part of the visa application process.
Medical Insurance for International Students
International students studying in Australia on a student visa must have arrangements for health insurance. Australia has a special system of health care cover for international students called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and students must have this for the duration of their student visa in Australia. If students come to Australia on a Working Holiday Visa or Tourist Visa and study a short course (up to 3 months) they cannot take out OSHC. It is recommended that such students take out travel or private medical insurance.
What is covered by OSHC?
- A rebate of approximately 85% of consultation fees with a general practitioner
- A rebate of approximately 85% of consultation fees with a specialist
- Full coverage for shared ward costs in any public hospital, including treatment by your own doctor
- Benefits towards treatment and accommodation in a private hospital
- Full cover for emergency ambulance transport for emergency medical treatment
What is not covered by OSHC?
Pre-existing conditions (such as pregnancy or prior illness)
Other insurance
Students in Australia are responsible for their own accident, personal, car and property insurance. We recommend that students take out travel insurance to cover such things before leaving their country of origin.
