Stop Overpaying for Health Insurance:
7 Insider Tips Every Australian Should Know
Article by Victor M
Last updated 16 January 2025
Have you ever thought,
“I’m paying way too much for what I’m actually getting”? After hundreds of dollars have just left your bank account for your monthly premium?
You’re not alone. Thousands of Australians feel the same every month - I’ve personally spoken to hundreds of people who are just fed up…
And if you’ve ever wondered why the costs keep going up while your coverage seems to stay the same (or get worse), this article is for you…
In the next few minutes, you’re going to discover 7 insider tips I’ve used to help everyday Aussies, just like you, to save hundreds—sometimes thousands—on their health insurance. After a decade in the industry, I’ve seen all the hidden traps and know exactly how you can avoid them.
1. Don’t Be Fooled by Flashy Names
“Top Plus,” “Advantage,” “Classic”
Health insurers often rely on shiny labels to make products seem more comprehensive. “Gold Advantage,” “Classic Silver Plus,” or “Top Advanced”—these names might sound like you’re fully covered, but they’re just branding.
Why It Matters
A policy with a ‘fancy’ title could still be missing important clinical categories you need. Meanwhile, a more modest-sounding policy might actually have more inclusions. That’s why it’s crucial to either read the fine print or let a trusted expert do it for you.
Action: Click Here to Book a Free Call. We’ll translate the jargon into everyday language so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
2. Spot the ‘New Category’ Trick
One “Silver Plus” does not equal another “Silver Plus”
A few years ago, health funds introduced categories like “Bronze,” “Silver,” and “Gold,” sometimes with “Plus” thrown in for an inbetween cover. The idea was to simplify coverage levels, but I think its made it more confusing.
For example, one “Silver Plus” might include Joint Replacements, while another doesn’t—yet both have the same label. Without a closer look, you could be stuck thinking you’re covered for something you’re not.
How to Protect Yourself
Don’t assume every “Silver Plus” is the same. Policies vary widely. The simplest way to check is by comparing the actual benefits side by side.
Action: Click Here to Find Out if your “Silver Plus” matches your real needs.
3. Staying Loyal Can Cost You
Outdated Policies = Overpriced & Underperforming
If your fund ever said, “This policy isn’t available anymore, if you leave, you won’t be able to re-join it” that’s generally code for: it’s outdated and overpriced. Health insurance changes over time—new deals are introduced for new customers, leaving long-term members stuck on old, inferior plans.
Why It’s Worth Switching
Sticking with an outdated policy is like paying top dollar for dial-up internet in a world of high-speed broadband. By comparing newer policies, you could save a significant amount and gain better benefits.
Action: Click Here to Compare & Switch. We’ll help you find something better suited to you.
4. Don’t Accept Low Rebates on Extras
Getting less than 50% off when you swipe your extras card?
Extras cover is an investment, you’re supposed to get back more than what you’re out-laying on services like physio, chiro, acupuncture, massage and optical. But if you’re only getting $50 back on an $200 dental bill, it’s time to shop around.
What to look for:
Some funds offer 60–80% back on extras—and the best part is these policies don’t always cost more. You just need to know where to look.
Action: See Which Plans Offer the Best Extras. It only takes a few minutes, and you could save hundreds.
5. $0 Excess or $750 Excess?
The Hidden Cost of ‘No Excess’
On paper, a $0 hospital excess sounds great—no upfront fees if you go to hospital. But that privilege usually comes with inflated premiums, often $500 - $700 more per year.
Who Benefits from a Higher Excess?
The excess is usually only paid once per adult per year - not on every visit to hospital. If you’re not a regular hospital visitor, you might be better off with a $500 or $750 excess. You’ll often save far more, premium than you’d ever pay out if you actually needed to use the hospital, especially when you add it up over a few years.
Action: Learn How to Lower Your Premiums by balancing your excess and monthly costs.
6. Don’t Pay The Annual Premium Hike
The ‘April’ Price Rise Happens Every Year
Every year, premiums inch up while your coverage generally stays the same. It’s frustrating, and if you’re not paying attention, you could end up spending a small fortune over time.
Take Control of the Conversation
Instead of accepting the increase, ask for a better deal—or compare with other funds. You’d be surprised how often people save money just by doing a quick annual check.
Action: Compare & Save Now. We’ll do the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to.
7. Use ‘New to Fund’ Promotions to Your Advantage
Special Deals You Might Not Know About
Health funds love new members. They’ll toss in deals like four weeks and sometimes up to eight weeks free - that’s nearly 2 out of the 12 months saved. If you’re loyal to one fund, you might be missing out on perks that could save you hundreds right away.
Why These Offers Are Worth Exploring
These promotions can offset your costs for a month or more, and you usually get it by switching to a better policy
Action: Find Out Which Funds Have Current Promos and see how to take advantage of them now.
Ready For A Better Policy?
Most people stay on the same policy for years because switching sounds like a hassle. But with the right guidance, it can be quick and save you thousands.
3 Simple Steps to Compare & Save
Click Compare & Save
Answer a Few Quick Questions (only a couple of minutes)
Receive Personalised Options straight to your inbox
It’s free and there’s no waiting periods when switching funds.