Average Health Insurance Premiums in 2026
Based on combined hospital and extras policies, average monthly premiums rise steadily with age, and family cover roughly doubles the single rate.
Why Premiums Rise With Age — and Why Joining Young Helps
Health insurers can't charge you more for existing health conditions (community rating), but your overall risk pool's average age still drives premiums up over time industry-wide. Joining before 31 avoids Lifetime Health Cover loading entirely, which is the single biggest age-related saving available — far larger than shopping between insurers.
What Actually Changes Your Premium
- Hospital tier chosen (Basic through Gold) — higher tiers cost more but cover more clinical categories
- Extras level and annual limits chosen
- Excess selected on hospital cover — a higher excess lowers the premium, paid only if you're actually admitted
- Your Lifetime Health Cover loading, if any
- Whether you're eligible for the government rebate, and at what percentage
The Real Cost After the Rebate
The Australian Government Rebate reduces most people's premium directly, either as a lower ongoing premium or a tax offset — so the sticker price on a quote is often not what you'll actually pay. It's worth checking your rebate tier before comparing headline premiums between insurers.
This page is for educational purposes and isn't personalised financial or medical advice. Premiums, rebates, thresholds and eligibility vary by insurer, policy and individual circumstances — always check the Standard Information Statement and Product Disclosure Statement before buying.