5 Best Health Insurance Plans with Gym Membership and Fitness Perks in Australia
Staying fit isn’t just about feeling good. Did you know that it can save you money on your health cover? Some Australian health insurers reward healthy habits with extras beyond dental and optical.
This often includes physio, gym memberships, and health programs that help you stay on track. In this guide, we’ve compared five private health funds offering real fitness perks to get more back from your policy. Here’s what you can read about:
- How Can You Use Your Private Health Insurance to Stay Fit in 2025?
- Extras That Encourage an Active Lifestyle
- Health Management and Wellness Program Inclusions
- Claiming Process and Restrictions for Fitness Benefits
- Cover That Supports Preventative Care, Not Just Treatment
- Perks for Young Adults and Families: Staying Active
- Why More Australians Choose Funds That Support Fitness
and much, MUCH more!
How Can You Use Your Private Health Insurance to Stay Fit in 2025?
If you want to stay fit without burning a hole in your wallet, private health insurance in Australia can help, but only if you know where to look.
Many funds offer perks like gym membership rebates, fitness classes, and health management programs, but it’s not always a free pass. You’ll typically need a referral from your GP or physio to claim these benefits, showing that the activity is part of your health plan.
The amount you can claim varies. Some funds offer up to $500 yearly for fitness-related activities, depending on your cover. On top of that, health insurers increasingly support preventive care, which is a win for your long-term well-being.
Australians are more health-conscious, with nearly 40% participating in regular exercise, and insurers are noticing.
To take advantage of these fitness perks, check your extras cover and see what’s included. Ask your healthcare provider for a referral, and choose gyms or programs approved by your insurer. With the right plan, you can get fitter and save on your health cover at the same time.
Extras That Encourage an Active Lifestyle
When it comes to staying fit, many Australians have realised that their private health insurance isn’t just for doctor visits and hospital stays; it can help them stay active and healthy.
More insurers are covering gym memberships, physio, and health programs to keep you moving and feeling good. But here’s the catch: not all health funds offer the same perks, and the details can get tricky.
To make things easier, we’ve compared five major insurers to show you how they compare in terms of fitness-focused extras.
Onemedifund
Onemedifund offers a nice variety of wellness perks. Their Gold Hospital plan covers health management—think fitness screenings and physiotherapy.
If you love a good massage or need a chiropractor to stay mobile, you’re in luck because their extras also include chiropractic care and remedial massage. They may not cover every gym, but your rehab needs are covered.
HIF Health Insurance
HIF stands out when it comes to wellness. They support their members to stay healthy through Health Management Programs.
You’ll find benefits for Kieser training (which is fantastic for strengthening joints), physio, and osteopathy. Whether working on injury prevention or staying strong, their extras will help you without breaking the bank.
Queensland Country Health Fund
Fitness is part of the deal at Queensland Country Health Fund. Their Ultra Extras plan covers many things to keep you in shape, including physiotherapy, chiropractic, and osteopathy.
You can also claim for fitness screenings and personal training, making it a great option if you aim for long-term health. They’re focused on helping you stay fit and healthy, emphasising chronic disease management.
Phoenix Health Fund
Phoenix doesn’t go overboard with gym memberships, but they have decent coverage for keeping you active. The Silver Extras plan covers remedial massage and physiotherapy. Phoenix has your back if you need recovery after a workout or injury.
They focus more on wellness and rehab to get the support you need to stay fit and prevent injuries, even if you don’t go to the gym daily.
Mildura Health Fund
Mildura ensures you stay fit, whether recovering from an injury or preventing one. The Five Star Extras plan includes benefits for fitness screenings, remedial massage, and even health programs like exercise therapy.
It’s perfect if you want to stay proactive about your health, because it offers rehab and prevention under the same plan. They seem to focus on keeping their members active and healthy long-term.
Quick Comparison
| Insurer | Fitness Perks | Claimable Benefits |
| Onemedifund | Fitness screenings, physiotherapy, chiro, massage | Up to $500 for health management programs |
| HIF Health Insurance | Health management, Kieser training, physio, osteo | Extensive coverage, especially for rehab & joint health |
| Queensland Country Health | Physio, chiropractic, osteopathy, fitness screenings | Fitness & chronic disease management programs |
| Phoenix Health Fund | Fitness programs, remedial massage, physio | Health management benefits for prevention & rehab |
| Mildura Health Fund | Fitness screenings, remedial massage, health programs | Focus on injury prevention & structured fitness programs |
Health Management and Wellness Program Inclusions
When it comes to staying active, health insurers in Australia aren’t only focusing on covering medical treatment; they’re exploring how they can help you prevent illness and injury from the start.
Many insurers now offer health management programs, including fitness assessments, chronic disease management, and personal health coaching. These extras can add value if you try to be proactive with your health.
To make it easier to compare the wellness and health management perks each insurer offers, we’ve broken down the key benefits in the table below. This shows what’s included and what’s not across the different insurers.
| Insurer | Fitness Screenings | Physiotherapy | Remedial Massage | Health Coaching | Chronic Disease Management | Injury Prevention | Alternative Therapies |
| Onemedifund | Included | Included | Included | Not Offered | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| HIF Health Insurance | Not Offered | Included | Not Offered | Offered | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Queensland Country Health Fund | Included | Included | Not Offered | Offered | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Phoenix Health Fund | Not Offered | Included | Included | Not Offered | Not Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Mildura Health Fund | Included | Included | Included | Offered | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
Claiming Process and Restrictions for Fitness Benefits
Understanding how to claim your fitness perks can be tricky. Each health insurer has a unique claims process, and the steps vary depending on the benefits you claim.
Whether you claim for a gym membership, physiotherapy, or other fitness-related services, knowing the right steps and required documentation is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the claims process for fitness perks from each insurer:
Onemedifund
- Requires a GP referral for gym memberships and fitness-related claims.
- You can submit claims via email to [email protected] or by fax.
- Processing times vary; you can contact their Medical Helpline at 03000 70 70 70 for assistance.
- You can also use the Onemedifund app for claim submissions and tracking.
HIF Health Insurance
- Offers a digital claims process through the mobile app.
- You can snap photos of invoices and submit claims directly via the app.
- Reimbursements are processed within 5 business days if eligible.
- You can use email, post, or HICAPS at participating providers for claims not submitted through the app.
Queensland Country Health Fund
- Provides a mobile app for easy claim submissions by uploading photos of receipts.
- Claims can also be lodged via email or post.
- An approved Health Management Program Benefit Approval Form is required for gym memberships and fitness programs.
- Your form must be completed by a referring healthcare professional and submitted for approval before claiming.
Phoenix Health Fund
- Claims can be submitted through the Phoenix Health App, Online Member Services, or by email to [email protected].
- Alternatively, you can post the completed claim form to PO Box 156, Newcastle NSW 2300.
- A completed Health Management Program Benefit Approval Form is necessary for claims, along with your GP referral.
Mildura Health Fund
- Offers multiple claim submission methods: mobile app, HICAPS, email, post, or in-person at branches.
- A completed Benefit Approval Form is required for gym memberships and fitness-related claims.
- Your form must be signed by a referring healthcare professional and submitted for approval before claiming.
Cover That Supports Preventative Care, Not Just Treatment
Preventive care is about stopping health issues before they start. Many Australians want more than just treatment for sickness; they want to stay healthy and avoid medical problems.
Luckily, some private health funds have caught on and offer more preventative care options to help you live a healthier, longer life. Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently offered by these insurers.
Onemedifund
- Offers health screenings that monitor your overall health and detect potential issues.
- Covers chiropractic services if you need regular adjustments to prevent long-term pain or injury.
- Includes physiotherapy for injury prevention for active people or those with existing conditions.
- Offers preventative dental services for regular check-ups and cleans.
- Provides health management programs to support long-term wellness and manage chronic conditions.
HIF Health Insurance
- Provides physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic services to prevent injuries.
- Preventative dental cover includes check-ups and cleans to keep your teeth healthy.
- Supports long-term health with health management programs that help you stay on top of your fitness and well-being.
- Offers health assessments to catch potential health issues early and ensure you’re not missing anything important.
- Helps you stay active and injury-free with Kieser training to strengthen muscles and improve joint health.
Queensland Country Health Fund
- Covers physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic services to help prevent injury and maintain a healthy body.
- Offers preventative dental care with regular check-ups and cleans.
- Provides health coaching as part of their health management programs to help you stay fit and active.
- Includes health screenings to monitor your overall health and spot issues early.
Phoenix Health Fund
- Offers remedial massage to help prevent muscle strain and keep you feeling your best.
- Includes physiotherapy to aid in injury prevention and recovery.
- Provides chronic disease management programs to help you stay healthy and manage ongoing conditions.
- Covers preventative dental services, including routine check-ups and cleans.
Mildura Health Fund
- Includes exercise therapy to keep you active and help prevent long-term health issues.
- Provides preventative dental services for regular check-ups and cleans.
- Covers physiotherapy and remedial massage to help prevent injuries and keep muscles in good condition.
- Offers health management services, including fitness and wellness programs.
Perks for Young Adults and Families Staying Active
Health insurance should cover more than just the basics for young adults and families. Whether it’s family-friendly wellness programs, discounts on gym memberships, or fitness rebates for younger members, here’s a breakdown of what each insurer offers:
| Insurer | Young Adult Benefits | Family Benefits | Active Lifestyle Perks |
| Onemedifund | Discounts for young adults under 30 | Family packages with tailored fitness rebates | Physiotherapy and chiropractic for injury prevention |
| HIF Health Insurance | Health coaching and fitness rebates for younger members | Children’s fitness programs covered under extras | Kieser training for strength and joint health |
| Queensland Country Health Fund | Under 30 discounts and fitness program benefits | Family-focused health management programs for all ages | Health screenings and physiotherapy for families |
| Phoenix Health Fund | Offers young adult discounts for members under 25 | Family wellness plans with fitness-related extras | Access to remedial massage and exercise therapy |
| Mildura Health Fund | Fitness rebates for young adults under 30 | Family fitness screenings and access to wellness programs | Exercise therapy and chronic disease prevention |
Why More Australians Choose Funds That Support Fitness
The Government’s Push for Preventative Health
Australia has a big problem with inactivity. Around 47% of adults aren’t getting enough exercise, which greatly impacts long-term health.
Enter the Australian government, which has been pushing for more active lifestyles with initiatives like the LiveLighter campaign and national guidelines on physical activity.
We’re talking 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, which isn’t just some vague suggestion—it’s a proven way to fight off chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even some types of cancer.
It’s not just about staying fit; it’s about preventing expensive medical issues. Here’s where private health insurers come in. Many have caught on to the government’s message and started offering perks to help you stay active, from gym membership discounts to fitness-related rewards.
Why Fitness is Becoming a Must-Have Perk
When you think about private health insurance, it was always about hospital stays, surgeries, and treatments. But now? People want more. There’s been a huge increase in fitness-conscious Australians who want to take charge of their health before things go wrong.
Approximately 22% of Australians use fitness apps or online workout subscriptions; a trend that has skyrocketed since the pandemic started in 2020. Australians are more active than ever, whether it’s a quick 20-minute HIIT class or a yoga session in your living room.
Due to this shift, health funds are rethinking their policies. They don’t just cover sick people anymore; they also support those who want to stay well.
More insurers offer plans with fitness rewards like discounts for gym memberships, access to fitness programs, or even cash back for completing fitness challenges. Why? Because it makes sense! Keeping people healthy reduces the chances that they’ll need expensive treatments later.
Fitness Perks That Save You Money
Here’s where it gets interesting. Health insurance is increasingly about helping you stay healthy so you don’t need treatment in the first place. Think about it: If you stay fit, you’re less likely to get sick and less likely to need hospital visits.
Chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, which are all linked to lifestyle and inactivity, are responsible for 70% of Australia’s health burden.
Guess what? Treating these diseases is expensive. Thus, insurers save everyone long-term money when offering perks like gym discounts or wellness reimbursements. The healthier you are, the less they spend on treatments, so they’re happy to reward you for staying active.
Fitness Isn’t Just for the Body—It’s for the Mind Too
We all know that exercise helps your body, but also great for your mental health. Mental health issues like anxiety and depression are increasing in Australia, affecting 1 in 5 people each year.
However, here’s the good news: exercise is one of the best natural treatments for mental health conditions. From the endorphins from a workout or the calming effects of yoga, moving your body can work wonders for your mind.
This is exactly why insurers are jumping on the wellness train. Many offer mental health support alongside fitness perks, including yoga classes, mental health coaching, and fitness apps to boost physical and mental well-being. The focus is on creating a holistic approach to health.
The Fitness-First Generation: What’s Driving the Change?
Why is this happening now? What’s the real driver behind all this? Firstly, Australians are more fitness-conscious than ever. Tech-savvy millennials are leading the charge because they grew up with fitness trackers, online workouts, and the idea that being healthy is “trendy.”
They want their health insurance to reflect their lifestyle. They want plans that support their fitness goals, not just wait for them to get sick.
If you’ve been to a gym or used a fitness app lately, you’ve probably seen health insurers pop up unexpectedly. They’re sponsoring fitness events, partnering with gyms, and even offering special discounts for active members.
Why? Because people are demanding it. If an insurer doesn’t offer fitness perks, it’s quickly becoming a deal-breaker.
Fitness and Technology: A Winning Combination
There’s been an influx of fitness tech like wearables (e.g., Fitbit, Apple Watch) and fitness apps that track your workouts, diet, and overall health. A 2024 study found that 60% of Australians use health and fitness apps to track their progress, manage their goals, and stay motivated.
The result? Many health funds are getting in on this tech revolution. Some insurers integrate fitness tracking into their health plans with perks for reaching certain goals.
For example, you could earn discounts, rewards, or cashback if you wear a fitness tracker and reach step goals or exercise milestones. It’s like a little fitness game with rewards included in your health insurance policy.
The best part is that this kind of technology is easy to integrate, and you can seamlessly track your progress and get rewarded for it. No more old-school paperwork and long claim processes; everything can be managed directly from your phone.
The Future of Fitness in Private Health Insurance
Looking ahead, we’re only going to see more personalised fitness plans. Imagine health insurance tailored to your individual fitness needs. Insurers could use your data from wearables or fitness apps to customise your benefits based on your fitness level, activity preferences, or even health goals.
Whether it’s a gym membership or diet support, health insurance’s future is about giving people the tools they need to stay fit and healthy.
Wrapping It All Up: Fitness Is the Future of Health Insurance
Ultimately, the growing focus on fitness in private health insurance is more than a trend. It’s a shift towards smarter, preventative care.
As Australians demand more fitness-focused plans, insurers will adapt and offer more value for those who want to stay healthy and active. It’s a win-win: you stay fit, and the insurer benefits from healthier, more engaged members.
Final Thoughts on Getting More Value from Your Health Fund
The move towards fitness-focused health insurance is a win for both consumers and providers. As more people want policies that support healthier lifestyles, insurers respond with benefits like gym memberships, fitness tracking rewards, and wellness programs.
These perks encourage physical activity and help reduce long-term healthcare costs. By prioritising prevention, these plans make it easier for you to stay active and maintain your well-being.
The future of health insurance is evolving towards a more holistic approach, with coverage that supports a fit and healthy lifestyle from the ground up.
FAQs About Gym Memberships and Health Insurance in Australia
Can I claim my gym membership with private health insurance?
Yes, some health funds offer gym membership discounts or reimbursements as part of their extras cover. However, this typically depends on the insurer’s policy and whether the gym is a participating provider. Always check the terms with your insurer before claiming.
Do I need a referral to claim fitness benefits on my health insurance?
In most cases, you won’t need a referral for general gym memberships or fitness-related benefits. However, you might need a referral or medical recommendation if you claim for specific health programs (like physiotherapy or personal training).
Are all gyms covered under private health insurance fitness perks?
Not all gyms are automatically covered. Insurers typically have a network of approved gyms, or they may offer discounts for specific programs.
How much can I claim for gym memberships through private health insurance?
The amount you can claim for gym memberships varies by insurer and plan. Some funds offer annual allowances for fitness-related claims, while others may offer a percentage reimbursement or a set amount per year.
Are there any exclusions when claiming gym memberships or fitness perks?
Yes, some exclusions can apply, such as gyms that don’t participate in your insurer’s network or certain fitness programs that aren’t deemed eligible for claims. Some insurers might have waiting periods before you can start claiming fitness perks.
