HIF Health Insurance Review
HIF was established in 1954 and is Australia’s first carbon-neutral health fund, certified by the Carbon Reduction Institute. HIF’s Basic Plus Hospital plan starts from $15.95 per week and provides entry-level hospital cover.
HIF allows plan members to submit claims instantly using Tap & Claim on Android devices at supporting healthcare providers.
| 🔎 Date Established | 1954 |
| 📌 Headquartered | Perth, WA |
| 📍 Registration Number | ABN 84 607 276 950 |
| 👤 The average number of members | Not published |
| 👥 Number of Employees | 50 – 200 |
| 🛡️ APRA-Regulated | ✅Yes |
| 📉 The most recent Market Cap reported | Not applicable; not-for-profit |
| 📈 Average Customer Rating | 2.8/5 (based on 133 reviews) |
| 📊 Average Number of Reviews | 133+ |
| 💹 Market Share | <0.5% |
| 🔟 Number of plans offered | Hospital Only, Extras Only, Combined Plans |
| 🏆 Sponsorships | Partnerships with AMA WA, Valion Health, Kieser, St. John WA, Little Green Pharma |
| 📲 Is a Mobile App offered | ✅Yes |
| ⚙️ Medical Claims Portal | Available |
| ⏰ Customer Support Operating Hours | Mon-Fri; varies by region (e.g., 6 am - 5 pm WA) |
| ✏️ Information Hub and Blog | Healthy Lifestyle Blog |
| 💊 Chronic Illness Benefits | Cancer Support Program via Valion Health |
| 👩⚕️ Screening and Prevention Offered | Health programs for cancer and chronic conditions |
| 🍼 Maternity Benefit | Covered on specific plans |
| ❤️ Health Insurance Premium Range (AUD) | Hospital Only from $15.95 per week |
| ⏲️ Average Waiting Period | Varies by plan; 12 months for pre-existing conditions |
| 🌎 International Medical Cover Offered | Not specified |
| 🔖 International Travel Benefit | Offered through Allianz Global Assistance |
HIF Health Insurance Plan Overview
| 🔎 Plan | 💴 Premium Range AUD (Min to Max, Weekly to Yearly) | 🚨 Exclusions | ❤️ Ideal For | ↪️ Gap Cover | 📌 Rebate Percentage | 📍 Average Waiting Period | 🔑 Key Features |
| 🥇 Basic Plus | From $15.95 | Complex treatments (e.g., cardiac, cancer) | Budget-conscious singles, couples, families | ✅Yes | 24.6-38.4% | Varies; up to 12 months | Ambulance, basic accident cover, limited hospital services, private/shared room options in public hospitals |
| 🥈 Bronze | From $19.22 | Maternity, complex treatments (e.g., joint replacements) | Individuals, couples, families | ✅Yes | 24.6-38.4% | Varies; up to 12 months | Basic hospital cover, emergency ambulance cover, shared room, some in-hospital services |
| 🥉 Bronze Plus | From $19.75 | Maternity, complex surgeries | Individuals, budget-conscious families | ✅Yes | 24.6-38.4% | Varies; up to 12 months | Basic in-hospital services, joint reconstructions, private/shared room options |
| 🏅 Silver | From $25.68 | Pregnancy, birth, and reproductive services | Moderate needs: singles, couples, families | ✅Yes | 24.6-38.4% | Varies; up to 12 months | Extensive inpatient services, shared room, AccessGap for reduced out-of-pocket expenses, and prostheses cover |
| 🎖️ Silver Plus | From $35.47 | Pregnancy, birth, and assisted reproductive services | Members who need extensive coverage without maternity benefits | ✅Yes | 24.6-38.4% | Varies; up to 12 months | Comprehensive coverage across most medical categories, second opinion service, private/shared room options, AccessGap cover |
| 🥇 Gold Top | From $47.19 | None (covers all Medicare categories) | Seniors, families, and members with high medical needs | ✅Yes | 24.6-38.4% | Varies; up to 12 months | All-encompassing hospital cover, private/shared room, AccessGap, prostheses and pharmacy cover, second opinion service, full maternity and complex treatment cover |
Hospital Only Plans – Features and Benefits
HIF Health Insurance provides personalised plans for different healthcare needs at different points in life. These plans offer options for hospitals and extra cover to provide important benefits while allowing members to select the most appropriate cover.
HIF offers plans from Basic to Gold for singles, couples, families, and seniors. These options offer a thoughtful balance of affordability and coverage to ensure that everyone can find the right hospital and extra cover.
Basic Plus
The Basic Plus plan offers essential hospital cover that’s easy on the wallet, making it a great choice for individuals or couples. This plan includes ambulance services, accommodation, and treatment for accidental injuries.
The Basic Plus plan doesn’t cover complex treatments like major heart surgeries, spinal care, or maternity services. This option works well for those who need straightforward hospital access without complex health requirements.
Bronze and Bronze Plus
The Bronze and Bronze Plus plans upgrade from the Basic Plus with more treatment options. Both plans cover joint reconstructions, hernia repairs, and certain cancer treatments.
AccessGap benefits can ease the financial burden for those eligible for inpatient services. However, these plans leave out important services such as maternity care, complex surgeries, and treatments for high-intensity chronic conditions.
The Bronze and Bronze Plus plans are great for individuals or couples who need some hospital care but don’t need coverage for maternity or more complex chronic conditions.
Silver
The Silver plan covers complex treatments like joint replacements, diabetes management, and specific heart and lung services. This plan is ideal for families, seniors, and individuals who require more assistance for different health issues.
Even with this expanded cover, Silver leaves out specialised treatments such as cataracts and dialysis.
Silver Plus
Silver Plus expands on the standard Silver plan by covering rehabilitation, psychiatric care, and lung treatments. It also covers outpatient services, such as gastrointestinal endoscopy.
Silver Plus is for individuals or couples who need significant hospital support but does not include maternity services.
Golden Top
Gold Top is HIF’s most complete hospital-only plan covering all Medicare-recognised services without exclusions. This plan offers access to heart and vascular surgeries, spinal procedures, advanced cancer therapies, joint replacements, and maternity services.
Gold Top is for individuals with complex healthcare needs, including families, seniors, and those who have chronic conditions.
HIF Extras and Additional Plan Options
Health Partners offers a variety of plans designed to meet different needs, with flexible cover options. Below is a summary of the available plans and their features:
Extras Cover
-
Simple Extras: From $8.79 per week
Covers dental, optical, physio, chiro, osteopathy, massage, and ambulance. -
Essential Extras: From $11.27 per week
Covers major dental, optical, physio, pharmacy, and ambulance. -
Advanced Extras: From $15.65 per week
Provides comprehensive dental, mental health support, physio, therapies, and ambulance.
Combined Cover
- Silver Plus No Maternity: From $26.20 per week
Covers inpatient services and essential extras, excluding maternity.
Working Visa Cover
-
Basic Working Visa: From $19.60 per week
Covers inpatient, emergency services, ambulance, and repatriation. -
Essentials Visa: From $26.00 per week
Covers hospital services, emergency, repatriation, and ambulance. -
Intermediate Visa: From $32.60 per week
Includes hospital, outpatient, ambulance, and limited repatriation. -
Comprehensive Visa: From $57.30 per week
Offers full inpatient/outpatient care, repatriation, private rooms, and maternity.
Non-Working Visa Cover
- Visitor Saver: From $36.05 per week
Provides basic hospital cover, outpatient services, GP visits, and limited pharmacy coverage.
Health Partners offers a wide range of flexible plans to suit different needs, whether you’re looking for basic coverage, comprehensive extras, or visa-specific options. With affordable weekly costs and a variety of benefits, members can choose the plan that best fits their healthcare needs and budget.
Recent User Reviews
🥇 Positive Experience with HIF’s Support
I like that HIF is a non-profit health fund that cares for its members. Their Australian support crew is always there to help. Great to be with a fund that cares about members; thanks to Kim for explaining my rebates so well! – James
🥈 Disappointing Experience with Coverage Changes
I’ve been with HIF for over 10 years, but my current experience made me reconsider. When I requested an estimate for a minor dental operation, I was told it was suddenly considered ‘major’ and not covered by my plan. I’d have to upgrade and wait 12 months for cover. After years of membership, this change disappointed. – Walter
🥉 Excellent Support During a Critical Time
When my wife required emergency back surgery, HIF helped. It was stressful, but they talked me through the procedure within 30 minutes of contacting them, easing our minds. Knowing they supported us in a crucial period was comforting. I strongly recommend them! – Meg
HIF Health Insurance vs GMHBA Health Insurance vs AHM – A Comparison
| 🔎 Provider | 🥇 HIF Health Insurance | 🥈 GMHBA Health Insurance | 🥉 AHM |
| 📌 Years in Operation | 70 years | 90 years | 53 years |
| 📍 Average Number of Members | Not published | Over 320,000 members | 950,000 |
| 🛡️ APRA Regulation | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 🔢 Number of Employees | 50 – 200 | 201-500 | 200 - 500 |
| 📉 Market Share | <0.5% | Positioned as Australia’s leading regionally-based health insurer | ±27.1% |
| 📈 Market Cover | Australia | Australia-wide cover | Australia |
| 📊 Customer Rating | 2.8/5 (based on 133 reviews) | 4.5/5 | 4/1/5 |
| 💹 Number of reviews | 133+ | 1,000+ | 600+ |
| 📲 Mobile App | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 💴 Premium Range (AUD) | From $15.95 per week - $47.19 per week | $19.25 per week to $3,269.80 per year | From $19.00 - $3,287.65 |
| 🌎 International Travel Benefit | Through Allianz Global Assistance | Not offered directly | ✅Yes |
| ⚙️ Market Capitalisation | Not applicable; not-for-profit | None indicated; net profit of $12.6 million (2023-24) | Not published |
| 🌟 Unique Features | Cancer support program, Valion Health partnership, AccessGap cover, Kieser osteoarthritis program, Teladoc virtual care, private room options | Youth Discount, Access Gap Cover, Online Member Area, Emergency Ambulance Cover | Offers 2 native apps, low and affordable premiums, and 22 plans |
Advantages of Using HIF Health Insurance
Founded in 1954 as a regional provider, HIF has grown to offer comprehensive health options across Australia, driven by its commitment to affordability, accessibility, and genuine member support.
- HIF has partnered with key organisations to provide enhanced health services, such as the Cancer Support Program through Valion Health and specialised physiotherapy programs with Kieser.
- HIF members can access urgent care at St John WA centres in Perth to reduce pressure on emergency departments, providing timely treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.
- HIF operates solely for its members’ benefit, reinvesting all profits into lowering premiums and enhancing services, aligning with its mission to support the health needs of Australians without the pressure to increase shareholder value.
HIF maintains a unique member-focused approach that gives policyholders the freedom to choose their healthcare providers.
HIF Health Insurance Gap Cover
HIF Health Insurance offers Access Gap Cover that can reduce patients’ costs when receiving inpatient medical services when Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fees don’t fully cover the expenses.
This cover relies on the participation of doctors, which is voluntary. It only applies when a doctor is registered for the necessary procedure and submits claims directly to HIF instead of Medicare. Here’s how it works:
Confirming Doctor Involvement
- Before you schedule your treatment, check if your doctor is part of the Access Gap Cover program.
- Explore HIF’s online search tool to find participating doctors.
- You can search according to specialty, location, and practice details and even see other patients’ comments.
Ask if the doctors helping you will provide treatment under Access Gap Cover to prevent surprise costs.
Understanding Costs and Invoicing
- Complete a Medical Estimate Form online or give HIF a call for an estimate before you decide on treatment.
- Talk to your doctor about all possible costs, including any fees for support staff or necessary equipment.
Check with your doctor about Direct Billing so that all claims are processed through HIF.
HIF Health Insurance App Features
The HIF Member App provides members a safe and convenient way to manage their health insurance policies anytime, anywhere. In addition to its essential features, it lets users submit claims, check their claims history, update their details, and keep track of their Extras usage limits.
| 🔎 Feature | 📌 Functionality |
| 📉 Tap and Claim | Android users can submit claims instantly to participating providers by tapping their device |
| 📈 Claim Submission | Claims are submitted by photographing and uploading the claim receipt (iOS Users) |
| 📊 Claims History | Track past claims and view reimbursement statuses at any time |
| 💹 Secure Access | Log in with Face ID, fingerprint recognition, or a personalised PIN for fast, secure access |
| 💱 Extras Monitoring | Check annual benefit limits for Extras, including what has been used and what remains available. |
| 📍 Policy Management | Update contact details, change addresses, and request new member cards for policy members over the age of 16 |
How to apply for Health Insurance with HIF Health Insurance
Getting health insurance with HIF is simple and flexible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply:
Evaluate Your Health Needs
Start by considering the type of coverage that best suits your health needs. HIF offers various levels of hospital cover (from Basic to Gold) and customizable extras like dental and optical.
Explore Product Details
Visit the HIF website to learn more about the available plans. If you need personalized help, call HIF’s customer support team at 1300 134 060.
Check Waiting Periods
Some treatments, like pregnancy services, may have a 12-month waiting period, while other general medical treatments often have shorter waiting times. Be sure to confirm these details.
Understand Excess Fees
Some policies have an excess fee (a one-time payment when you’re admitted to the hospital). Consider how changes in excess could affect your premiums.
Prepare Your Documents
Have your Medicare card and identification ready when applying. If you’re switching from another insurer, get your transfer certificates to avoid waiting periods again for similar cover levels.
Complete Your Application
You can apply online through the HIF website. If you need help, call HIF or visit a branch, and their team will guide you through the process.
Choose a Payment Plan
HIF offers flexible payment options, including direct debit, monthly billing, and annual prepayments. You can also enjoy discounts if you pay for six or twelve months upfront.
Cooling-Off Period
After your application is approved, you’ll have a 30-day cooling-off period to decide if your cover works for you. During this time, you can make changes or cancel for a full refund if no claims have been made.
Manage Your Insurance
Once you’re a member, use the HIF Member App to manage claims, track benefits, and update your personal information.
This simple process ensures you get the right health coverage and manage it easily.
How to apply for Gap Cover with HIF Health Insurance
The Access Gap Cover program from HIF helps members save money by matching provider fees with Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) rates. Because you don’t need to apply separately for gap cover, here’s a friendly guide on how to confirm and make the most of Access Gap Cover with HIF:
- Before you schedule your hospital treatment, talk to your doctor to ensure they are part of Access Gap Cover. HIF’s online search tool on HealthShare helps members find participating providers based on their specialty and location.
- If other specialists are involved in your procedure, like anaesthetists or assisting surgeons, ensure each provider is part of Access Gap to prevent any surprise costs.
- HIF has an easy-to-use online Medical Estimate Form that gives you an overview of the expected costs for approved procedures.
- If you have any questions, contact HIF’s support team to help you understand your estimated benefits and clarify any charges you might have.
To ensure Access Gap benefits are available, every participating doctor needs to agree to bill HIF directly instead of going through Medicare. Check in with your provider about this arrangement to help make billing easier and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
How to Submit a Claim with HIF Health Insurance
Submitting claims with HIF is simple, whether for hospital, extra, pet insurance, telehealth, or travel. Follow these easy steps to ensure a smooth claim submission:
Gather Your Documents:
Collect all necessary receipts, detailed accounts, and invoices. HIF requires detailed billing information to process your claim.
Review Your Coverage:
Check your policy details, including coverage, limits, and any applicable waiting periods. Different types of cover (hospital, Extras, etc.) may have specific requirements.
Choose Your Claim Submission Method:
Immediate Claim Submission (For Extras Services): Use HICAPS terminals at participating health providers. Swipe your HIF membership card, and the rebate will be applied automatically, leaving you to cover any out-of-pocket costs.
Mobile Claiming via the HIF Member App: Download the app, go to the claims section, take a photo of your invoice, and submit it through the app. Eligible reimbursements will be deposited directly into your bank account.
Online Claiming through the Member Centre: Log into HIF’s Online Member Centre, complete the claim form, and upload the required documents. You can also track the status of your claims and view past claims.
Submission via Email or Post: Download and complete the claim form from HIF’s website. Attach your receipts and send them by email to [email protected] or by post to HIF, GPO Box X2221, Perth, WA 6847.
With these options, submitting claims is quick and convenient!
How to Upgrade or Downgrade My Plan with HIF Health Insurance
Changing your HIF health insurance plan involves considering how it will affect your coverage, the waiting periods that apply, and possible changes to your premiums. Here’s a straightforward guide on the steps to take for upgrading or downgrading:
- Review your policy’s current coverage and how it aligns with any new healthcare needs that could have evolved since starting your coverage.
- When considering a plan with enhanced benefits, remember that some treatments might have extra waiting periods, even if you’ve already completed previous waiting times. For example, when policies are upgraded, it can mean that waiting periods for benefits such as mental health or pregnancy services are reset.
- Cutting back on coverage can lower your monthly premium, but some previously covered services won’t be included anymore. Typically, waiting periods aren’t applied again for downgrades.
- Before you make any changes, contact HIF’s customer service team. They can provide a cost estimate for premium changes and important details about waiting periods. HIF can help you understand the potential costs of your new plan to see what you might pay out of your own pocket for services.
Visit the HIF Member Center to explore your options and submit your request to upgrade or downgrade.
How do I add a Beneficiary to HIF Health Insurance?
HIF allows you to include dependents—such as children, spouses, or partners—on family and couple policies. Eligible dependents typically include children under 21 years old or full-time students, who are covered until they turn 31, depending on the policy.
How to Add a Dependent
- Children: Provide a birth certificate or legal adoption papers when adding a newborn or adopted child to your policy.
- Spouses/Life Partners: Upload your marriage certificate or documents that show your relationship. You may also need to submit a signed declaration or proof of shared residency.
Timing and Waiting Periods
- Newborns: Many policies allow you to add a newborn within two months without waiting periods. Some policies may extend this up to four years.
- Newly Added Dependents: Standard waiting periods apply unless the dependent had similar coverage previously. Be sure to check the waiting periods for your policy.
Updating Your Cover
- Online: Log in to the HIF Member Centre to add your dependents and upload the necessary documents.
- By Phone: For assistance, contact HIF’s Member Service team at 1300 134 060.
- By Mail: Complete the form and send it along with supporting documents to HIF.
Adding a dependent to your policy is simple with the right documentation!
How to Submit a Compliment or Complaint with HIF Health Insurance
Members can share their thoughts on HIF services using different contact options, making communicating with the fund easy and ensuring each submission type is followed up.
- Call HIF’s Member Service at 1300 134 060 to provide verbal feedback or lodge a complaint.
- If you have any written feedback, email [email protected].
- If your feedback or concern isn’t addressed during your first interaction, ask for it to be escalated. The team leader at HIF will review the issue and get back to you within two business days.
- If the issue is still unresolved, you can take the next step by contacting the HIF Member Action Review Committee (MARC) in writing.
- A dedicated team will review your complaint and how HIF managed it to reach a fair resolution in about a month.
- Once the review is complete, MARC will contact you with the outcome within three days following the committee’s meeting.
If you’re unhappy with MARC’s decision, request an external review from the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman. You can reach out for an independent evaluation at 1300 362 072.
How to Switch my Health Insurance to HIF Health Insurance
Choose a HIF health cover plan that suits your current (and future) needs and consider your dependents’ needs.
- Complete the sign-up application for your HIF membership on the online portal or call them at 1300 134 060.
- When you switch funds, HIF will work with your previous insurer on your behalf.
- Once you give your authorisation, HIF will contact your previous insurer to get a Clearance Certificate for you. This document outlines your previous cover details, ensuring that any waiting periods you’ve already completed for similar services will be honoured on your new policy.
- Please confirm the cancellation of your direct debit with your previous insurer.
- HIF can help you cancel your policy with your former fund. However, you must cancel direct debit arrangements with your previous insurer to prevent ongoing charges.
- After the switch is finalised, HIF will provide your membership details and policy documents. You can now set your payment preferences, like direct debit options or choose payment intervals aligned with your financial planning.
If you’ve received any services on or after your HIF cover start date, submit your claims directly to HIF. If you have any claims for services that occurred before the switch, file them with your previous insurer.
HIF Health Insurance Pet Cover
HIF Pet Insurance offers three unique cover options for pet owners, each covering specific veterinary treatments for injuries and illnesses. Here are the main pet insurance options with some key features:
Basic Cover
Includes care for unexpected injuries and treatment for swallowing foreign objects, poisoning, tick paralysis, and snake bites.
Ideal for pet owners to ensure financial safety in case of unexpected accidents without including illness or routine care coverage.
Middle Cover
This plan offers everything in Basic Cover and additional support for illness-related treatments, addressing conditions like cancer and joint problems (e.g., dysplasia).
Perfect for pets requiring a more extensive plan, covering significant medical costs and accidents.
📌 Learn more about Pet Insurance under 100AUD
Top Cover
Provides comprehensive cover, including all accidental injuries covered under Basic and a broad range of illnesses.
This plan offers an optional benefit for dental illnesses, covering issues like gingivitis, abscesses, and any necessary tooth extractions.
Ideal for pet owners who want comprehensive health coverage that fully addresses injuries and illnesses.
Additional and Optional Benefits, Exclusions, and Waiting Periods
| 🔎 Benefit Type | 🅰️ Benefit | 🅱️ Cover |
| 🐶 Additional Benefit | Emergency Boarding | Covers boarding costs if the owner is hospitalised and unable to care for the pet temporarily |
| 🐱 Additional Benefit | Essential Euthanasia | Provides cover for humane euthanasia when medically necessary |
| 🐸 Additional Benefit | Overseas Travel Insurance | Covers specified vet expenses if the pet travels internationally with the owner |
| 🐼 Optional Benefit | Routine Care | Covers preventive treatments, including vaccinations, microchipping, and deworming |
| 🦊 Optional Benefit | Dental Illness Benefit | Covers dental conditions like abscesses and gingivitis, including necessary extractions. Suitable for pets prone to dental issues |
Exclusions and Waiting Periods
| 📍 General Exclusions | Excludes conditions such as pregnancy, elective or cosmetic procedures, and certain breed-specific issues |
| 📌 Waiting Periods | Immediate cover for accidental injuries; a 30-day waiting period generally applies to illness cover |
| ❤️ Pre-existing Conditions | Conditions diagnosed before the policy starts or during the waiting period are excluded unless reviewed and approved by HIF |
HIF Health Insurance Travel Insurance
HIF provides travel insurance for Domestic, Essentials, Comprehensive, and Multi-Trip journeys by partnering with Allianz Global Assistance. The plans cover important situations like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal liability.
Domestic Plan
Covers travel within Australia, including benefits for accidental death, cancellation protection, and rental vehicle excess. The maximum limit for personal liability protection is set at $5 million.
Essentials Plan
This plan is for international travel and covers emergency medical expenses with a limit of up to $20 million. Offers support for trip cancellations, lost luggage, delays, and personal liability cover of up to $2.5 million.
Comprehensive Plan
This comprehensive plan is perfect for those who travel extensively around the world. It offers $20 million for emergency medical expenses, up to $10,000 for luggage cover, $6,000 for rental vehicle excess, and $5 million for personal liability.
Multi-Trip Plan
This plan is perfect for those who travel often, offering benefits akin to the Comprehensive plan but refreshing with every trip, apart from the personal liability limit.
Key Benefits Comparison
| 🔎 Feature | 🥇 Domestic | 🥈 Essentials | 🥉 Comprehensive | 🏅 Multi-Trip |
| 🌎 Overseas Medical Cover | Not applicable | $20 million | $20 million | $20 million |
| 🥺 Accidental Death | $25,000 (Single) | Not applicable | $25,000 | $25,000 |
| ⏹️ Cancellation | Custom limit | Custom limit | Custom limit | Custom limit |
| ✈️ Luggage and Personal Effects | $10,000 | $5,000 | $10,000 | $10,000 |
| 🚙 Rental Vehicle Excess | $6,000 | $3,000 | $6,000 | $6,000 |
| 💙 Personal Liability | $5 million | $2.5 million | $5 million | $5 million |
Optional Cover Packages
Adventure Pack
This covers adventure activities such as scuba diving and zip-lining, with a $500 excess on medical claims specific to these activities.
Cruise Pack
This offer is tailored for cruises, including medical evacuation and shore excursion cancellations.
Snow Pack
For snow sports, covering equipment, piste closures, and emergency assistance.
HIF’s travel insurance options offer flexible coverage tailored to different travel needs, ensuring you’re protected wherever you go.
HIF Health Insurance Corporate Responsibility
HIF Health Insurance embraces a proactive stance on corporate responsibility, highlighting its dedication to inclusivity and caring for the environment.
HIF is Australia’s pioneering carbon-neutral health insurer committed to lowering its carbon footprint through a strategy certified by the Carbon Reduction Institute.
HIF is committed to providing inclusive support for the LGBTQIA+ community. The fund provides important benefits like coverage for gender affirmation surgery and gives members the option to identify with a third gender option or to leave this field blank.
In 2017, HIF became the first health insurer to support Australian Marriage Equality, showing its commitment to and support for same-sex couples, non-binary individuals, and transgender members in every part of its services.
Key Corporate Responsibility Initiatives Summary
Environmental Commitment
Certified carbon-neutral status, achieved by reducing emissions and purchasing carbon abatement credits.
LGBTIQA+ Support
- Covers gender affirmation surgery.
- First health insurer in Australia to support marriage equality.
- Offers third gender and Mx title options for members.
- Enables seamless updates for gender and name changes on policies.
Community Partnerships
Collaborates with organisations like the Australian Medical Association (WA) to improve health access and well-being for all members.
HIF Health Insurance Regulation
HIF Health Insurance follows the rules set by the Private Health Insurance Act 2007, which regulates Australia’s private health insurance industry. This Act ensures that health funds like HIF maintain financial stability and provide quality services.
By adhering to these standards, HIF protects consumer rights and helps strengthen Australia’s healthcare system. In addition to the Act, HIF also follows the Private Health Insurance Code of Conduct, which focuses on transparency, service quality, and consumer support.
This commitment ensures that members receive clear information, respectful dispute resolution, and helpful guidance on their coverage options.
HIF Health Insurance Awards and Recognition
The following awards show HIF’s dedication to sustainability and the quality of services provided to its members:
- In 2022, HIF was awarded the Green Health Insurer of the Year by Finder, recognizing its dedication to being carbon-neutral and its efforts to reduce environmental impact.
- In 2016, HIF was awarded five CANSTAR Outstanding Value Awards, showing its remarkable value across different health insurance categories.
HIF has gained significant recognition in the industry for its commitment to environmental responsibility and its focus on providing value to its members through thorough health insurance options.
HIF Health Insurance Customer Support and Contact Details
HIF offers various contact options for different types of inquiries. Here’s a breakdown of the contact information and hours of operation for each:
Sales Inquiries
For information on HIF plans and coverage:
- Online Form: Sales Inquiry Form on the HIF website
- Phone: 1300 134 060
Membership Assistance
For support with existing memberships:
- Online Form: Membership Inquiry Form on the HIF website
- Phone: 1300 134 060
Claims Support
For claims submission and status inquiries:
- Online Form: Claims Inquiry Form on the HIF website
- Phone: 1300 134 060
General Inquiries
For general questions and feedback:
- Online Form: General Feedback Form on the HIF website
Pet Insurance
For pet policy-specific support:
- Email: [email protected]
Compensation Inquiries
For worker’s compensation claims inquiries:
- Email: [email protected]
International Calls
For accessing HIF from outside Australia:
- Phone: +618 9227 4200
National Relay Service
For support with hearing/speech impairments:
- Phone: 08 9227 4200 (use NRS access)
For general correspondence:
- Address: Reply Paid, GPO Box X2221, Perth, WA 6847
In-Person Support
For assistance at HIF’s head office:
- Location: 100 Stirling Street, Perth, WA
- Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 am – 5 pm WST
Media Inquiries
For media-related inquiries:
- Email: [email protected]
For any further assistance or inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate contact method listed above. HIF is dedicated to providing support tailored to your needs.
Rebates and Discounts
HIF offers several financial incentives to make health coverage more affordable, including government rebates and special promotions for new members. Here’s a breakdown of the available rebates and discounts:
Extra Bonus Cash Card Offer
New members who sign up for an eligible combined Hospital and Extras policy can receive a cash card worth $200 for singles or $400 for couples and families. This offer is available for those who choose a combined policy (ranging from Basic Plus to Gold Top for Hospital and Basic to Top for Extras), select direct debit for payment, and keep the policy active for 90 days during the promotional period.
Member Referral Reward
Existing members can earn a $70 cash card for every new member they refer who successfully joins HIF.
Optical Discounts
HIF members with Extras cover that includes optical services can enjoy exclusive discounts of up to 25% on selected optical products, both in-store and online.
HIF Health Insurance Additional Health Services and Products
HIF offers a variety of health benefits to support members in different areas of their well-being:
Flu Vaccinations
Members with certain Extras policies can claim up to $20 for a yearly flu vaccination through a pharmacy benefit.
Telehealth Benefits
HIF provides telehealth consultations for dental care, physiotherapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy, and dietetics.
Valion Health Cancer Support Program
This program offers dedicated assistance to individuals battling cancer, focusing on both their physical and emotional health.
Kieser Physiotherapy Programs
In collaboration with Kieser, HIF offers specialized physiotherapy programs focused on osteoarthritis and spinal issues.
Medicinal Cannabis Support
HIF covers claims related to medicinal cannabis under specific conditions for members with extra policies that include pharmacy benefits. Members using Little Green Pharma products can also receive an extra $25 benefit per prescription.
HIF Virtual Care – Best Doctors®
Eligible members can connect with top specialists for virtual consultations and second opinions through Best Doctors®.
St John WA Urgent Care
HIF members have access to urgent care services through St John WA for immediate health needs.
Sleep Eazzzy Baby Program
This program offers courses on childbirth and early parenting, telehealth sessions for sleep and settling, and mental health screenings for new parents.
SleepSpace Program
Members can access SleepSpace, an online tool to help track and improve their sleep.
Healthy Weight for Life Program
This program, offered through Prima Health Solutions, is designed for eligible members dealing with conditions like type 2 diabetes or osteoarthritis.
These comprehensive benefits reflect HIF’s commitment to supporting the diverse health needs of its members, ensuring access to care and resources for overall well-being.
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Multiple Extras options, including pharmacy and optical cover | Waiting periods apply to benefits, particularly on higher-tier upgrades |
| Partnerships with local healthcare providers, including St John WA, for urgent care | Excludes some specialised and higher-risk treatments |
| Flu vaccinations are covered under selected Extras policies | Maternity cover not included in Basic policies |
| Valion Health partnership provides specialised support for cancer patients | Limited telehealth services |
| Offers bonuses for member referrals, including a $70 cash card per successful referral | Optical benefits are limited compared to other funds’ offerings |
In Conclusion
HIF Health Insurance offers a range of options, from emergency and medical care to travel and pet insurance, with a focus on community support and eco-friendly practices. It stands out for its inclusivity, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community, offering benefits like gender affirmation and telehealth services. Additional services like virtual consultations with Best Doctors® and cancer support through Valion Health further enhance its appeal.
HIF also helps members save with rebates, an Extra Bonus Cash Card for new joiners, and referral rewards. However, it may not be ideal for those needing specialized maternity care or extensive mental health services, and some policies have fewer extras compared to other providers.
Despite these limitations, HIF excels in areas like cover, customer service, claims processes, and offering additional insurance options, making it a strong choice for many.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does HIF cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes, HIF covers pre-existing conditions, but there is a 12-month waiting period before you can claim benefits.
Can visitors to Australia get health insurance with HIF?
Yes, HIF provides Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) for those on visitor visas, such as the Visitor Visa 600.
Do HIF policies have waiting periods?
Yes, there are waiting periods for HIF policies. This includes a 12-month wait for pre-existing conditions and a 2-month wait for rehabilitation services.
What steps do I need to take with HIF?
You can submit your claims using the HIF Member mobile app or send them by email, mail, or through eClaiming for Extras services.
