How Much Does OSHC Cost in Australia?

What OSHC costs — the starting point

Single OSHC cover starts from roughly AUD $500–810 per year across the five approved providers (Allianz Care, ahm, Bupa, Medibank, and nib). This is a broad range because each provider sets its own rates, and costs vary based on the start date and the length of the policy period. Some providers offer slightly lower rates for longer commitments; others charge more if you're starting mid-year.

These prices are indicative only. Always get a current quote from each provider before deciding, as rates change annually and can vary based on your exact enrolment dates.

How cover length affects total cost

OSHC isn't sold as an annual subscription you renew each year. Instead, you buy a policy that covers the entire length of your course or visa, and you pay the total cost upfront (or in instalments, depending on the provider). This is a key point: if your course is 18 months long, you'll buy 18 months of cover and pay accordingly. If you're studying for three years, your OSHC policy covers all three years.

Your total OSHC bill = (daily or annual rate) × (number of days or months you're covered). Longer courses mean higher upfront costs. For example, a one-year Master's degree might cost $600–900, while a three-year Bachelor's could cost $1,800–2,700 or more — depending on the provider and the exact start/end dates.

Single vs couple and family cover

The $500–810 range refers to single cover (one person). If you're bringing a partner or children, family cover is more expensive. The exact additional cost depends on the number of dependants and the provider, but expect to budget significantly more if you're a couple or family. Most providers offer pricing calculators on their websites where you can enter your dependants and get an exact figure.

Variation between providers

All five approved providers charge different rates for the same cover type and duration. The differences can be meaningful — sometimes $100–200 per year between the cheapest and most expensive option for identical cover. Shopping around across all five providers is worth your time, especially if you're buying multi-year cover where small percentage differences compound over time.

Indexation and annual increases

OSHC premiums are indexed annually, usually around 1 April each year. This means if you're buying a multi-year policy, the annual cost may increase slightly in subsequent years (within the policy terms). When you get a quote, ask the provider about their indexation policy so you know what to expect year on year.

How to get a quote

Visit each of the five approved OSHC providers' websites or contact them directly with your course start date, end date, and cover type (single, couple, or family). Most providers offer instant online quotes. You can also use a free cost-estimator tool that walks you through your visa length and cover needs and gives you a rough ballpark figure before you contact providers directly.

Payment options

Some providers allow you to pay the full annual or course cost upfront; others offer monthly payment plans. If you're paying from overseas, some providers accept international bank transfers or credit card payments. Check the payment methods each provider accepts before you apply, especially if you're paying from your home country.

Why is OSHC so expensive if I only get basic hospital cover?

OSHC is designed to cover the cost of medically necessary treatment in public hospitals, which in Australia is a significant cost. The premium reflects the potential cost of hospital admissions, emergency care, and subsidised medicines. The price also includes admin, claims processing, and compliance with Australian health regulations.

Can I buy OSHC for just part of my course to save money?

No. Under visa condition 8501 for student visas, you must hold valid OSHC for the entire course duration. If you drop below that, you're in breach of your visa conditions. You must buy cover for the full length of your enrolment.

Do all five providers charge the same price?

No. Each provider sets its own rates, and there can be noticeable differences between them. It's worth comparing quotes from all five before you commit. Price isn't the only factor — you should also consider what's covered, excess amounts, and customer service reputation.

Can I get a refund on my OSHC if I leave early?

If you finish your course early, leave Australia, or have your visa refused, you can usually claim a pro-rata refund from your provider (conditions and evidence apply). Contact your provider for details on their refund policy.

Are there any hidden costs in OSHC?

OSHC does not cover dental, optical, physiotherapy, or ambulance services. If you need these, you'll need to buy a separate OSHC Extras policy or arrange private cover. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully to understand exactly what is and isn't covered.

What if my course dates change?

If your course start or end date changes, contact your OSHC provider. Depending on the change, you may be able to adjust your policy or claim a partial refund. Some providers are more flexible than others, so it's worth asking.