When an emergency strikes, the last thing you want to think about is the cost of getting to hospital. Yet in Australia, calling an ambulance can leave you with a bill that runs into hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Since Medicare doesn’t cover ambulance services, many people turn to ambulance cover or private health insurance for financial protection. But which option makes the most sense?
What does ambulance cover include?
Ambulance cover is designed to help pay for the cost of emergency transport. Depending on the policy, it can also cover non-urgent transfers, as well as air or sea ambulance services if you’re in a remote area. Without cover, the full cost is yours to pay—something that can quickly add up given the high fees in some states.
Why isn’t it included under Medicare?
While Medicare takes care of most essential medical expenses, it does not extend to ambulance trips. Each state and territory manages ambulance services separately, which means the costs and rules vary across the country. In some places, you’ll be fully covered by the government, while in others you’ll need insurance to avoid a large out-of-pocket bill.
How much does an ambulance cost?
The price of ambulance transport isn’t the same everywhere. For example, in Victoria, a single emergency call-out can cost over $1,300 in metropolitan areas and more than $2,000 in regional zones. If air or sea transport is needed, the bill can climb much higher—sometimes into the tens of thousands of dollars. Add in potential per-kilometre fees, and it becomes clear why cover can be a smart choice.
How does ambulance insurance work?
If you have an ambulance policy, either on its own or bundled with private health insurance, your provider will pay the ambulance service directly or reimburse you for the cost. Policies vary, so always check the fine print. Some plans have waiting periods, exclude non-emergency trips, or cap benefits for expensive services such as air ambulance.
Who benefits most from ambulance cover?
- People in states where ambulances aren’t free: In places like New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia, you’ll be charged unless you have a policy.
- Regular travellers: If you move between states, national cover can save you from surprises since rules differ across borders.
- Households with limited savings: The cost of an ambulance can be a financial shock, so insurance offers reassurance.
What types of cover are available?
- Standalone ambulance cover: Affordable and focused solely on ambulance costs, usually starting from around $5–$10 per month.
- Part of a health insurance plan: Many hospital or extras policies include ambulance cover, but the level of protection differs.
- Government-provided services: In Queensland and Tasmania, residents don’t need separate cover as ambulance trips are already funded by the state.
Ambulance cover vs private health insurance
If you already have private health insurance, it’s worth checking your policy before buying additional ambulance cover. Many policies include at least some ambulance benefits, but restrictions are common. For example, you may only be covered for emergencies, or you might not be insured for transfers between hospitals or for air transport. Reading your policy carefully helps avoid gaps in cover.
How to choose the right option
Start by looking at your personal circumstances. If you live in a state where the government already provides ambulance services, extra cover may not be necessary. If you travel often or live in a rural area, a more comprehensive plan could be worthwhile. Families might also benefit from policies that cover all members under one plan, providing peace of mind without juggling multiple policies.
Is ambulance cover worth it?
For many Australians, ambulance insurance is a small expense that prevents a major financial hit. Even the most basic plan can shield you from hefty bills during a medical emergency. Whether you choose standalone cover or rely on your health insurance policy, knowing you’re protected can make a stressful situation a little easier to manage.
