Medibank Travel Insurance Review
Medibank Travel Insurance operates with Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ZAIL) backing. ZAIL is part of the Zurich Insurance Group and underwrites Medibank’s travel insurance.
This collaboration brings the extensive expertise of a global network to Medibank’s services to enhance Medibank’s ability to deliver tailored solutions across travel scenarios. Medibank stands out for its comprehensive offerings and insurance that cover international, domestic, and niche journeys like cruise travel.
Each plan addresses different traveling needs, supported by ZAIL’s operational strength in policy issuance, claims management, and customer service. By focussing on delivering dependable protection, Medibank is known for its unlimited cancellation cover and high limits on luggage protection.
The 24/7 emergency assistance is a vital service that underscores Medibank’s commitment to customer care, providing travelers with peace of mind wherever they are.
| 🔎 Date Established | 1976; Started offering travel insurance in 2006 |
| 📌 Headquartered | Docklands, Melbourne, Australia |
| 📍 Regulation and Compliance | Overseen by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ZAIL) as part of the Zurich Insurance Group |
| 📉 Type of Travel Insurance Plans Offered | International Comprehensive, International Medical Only, Domestic, Annual Multi-Trip |
| 📈 Key Cover Areas | Overseas medical expenses, trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, emergency evacuation |
| 📊 Emergency Assistance Services | 24/7 emergency assistance for medical and non-medical support |
| 💹 COVID-19 Cover | Certain COVID-19 medical expenses, if diagnosed while travelling |
| 💱 Maximum Cover Limits | Unlimited overseas medical expenses, up to $15k luggage cover, up to $10k COVID-19 trip cancellation (International Comprehensive) |
| 🏈 Adventure and Sports Cover | Snow sports, motorcycle/moped riding, with additional options required |
| 🖱️ Claims Submission Process | Claims can be submitted online or by mail |
| ⏰ Average Claim Settlement Time | Not specified in the document |
| 🥰 Customer Support Availability | 24/7 emergency assistance, general customer service hours align with normal business hours |
| 📲 Mobile App and Digital Services | My Medibank app |
| ⭐ Customer Reviews and Ratings | 3.2/5 |
| 💷 Annual Premium Range | From $145 to $260 per month for international plans, $194 for domestic plan |
| ❌ Exclusions and Limitations | Pre-existing medical conditions, unless disclosed, travel to high-risk destinations without specific cover |
| 🎉 Discounts and Promotions | 15% discount for Medibank or ahm health members |
| ↪️ Policy Limits and Flexibility | Policies can be customised by adding additional cover options like snow sports or increased luggage limits |
| 🌎 Global Reach and Market Presence | Cover options available worldwide, underwritten by Zurich Insurance Group |
Medibank Plan Comparison and Overview
| 🔎 Plan Option | 📉 Features | 📈 Min and Max Premium | 📊 Cover Limits | ❌ Exclusions | 🩷 Ideal For | 🚨 Emergency Assistance | 📲 Mobile App Offered | 🎉 Discounts Available |
| 🥇 International Comprehensive | Medical, dental, cancellations, lost/stolen valuables, COVID-19 cover | From $260 per month | Unlimited medical, up to $15k luggage, up to $10k COVID-19 cancel | Excludes pre-existing conditions unless disclosed, high-risk destinations without specific cover | International travellers | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | 15% for Medibank/ahm members |
| 🥈 International Medical Only | Basic medical, hospital expenses, COVID-19 medical cover | From $145 per month | Unlimited medical expenses | Excludes trip cancellations, amendments, pre-existing conditions unless disclosed | Travellers needing basic medical cover | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | 15% for Medibank/ahm members |
| 🥉 International Annual Multi-Trip | Multiple trips, same benefits as Comprehensive Plan, specified duration per trip | Varies based on factors | Same as International Comprehensive | Excludes pre-existing conditions unless disclosed, high-risk destinations without specific cover | Frequent international travellers | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | 15% for Medibank/ahm members |
| 🏅 Domestic Travel Insurance | Cover for luggage, cancellations, rental car excess, COVID-19 trip cancellations | From $194 per month | Unlimited cancellation, up to $5k COVID-19 cancel | Excludes medical expenses for domestic travel and pre-existing conditions unless disclosed | Domestic travellers | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | 15% for Medibank/ahm members |
Travel Insurance Plans and Cover Options
Medibank Travel Insurance offers a suite of well-defined plans tailored to meet diverse travel needs, each backed by specific inclusions to ensure peace of mind for travelers.
International Comprehensive Plan
This plan has extensive coverage, including unlimited overseas medical expenses, lost or stolen luggage protection, and unlimited cancellation costs. It also covers rental car insurance excess and offers additional expense cover in emergencies, such as natural disasters disrupting travel.
Travelers participating in snow sports or motorcycle riding can opt for additional high-risk activity cover. Here are the benefits and limits of the International Comprehensive Plan
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Limit |
| 💶 Overseas Medical Expenses | Unlimited |
| 💵 Cancellation and Amendment | Unlimited |
| 💷 Luggage and Personal Effects | $15,000 |
| 💶 Rental Car Insurance Excess | $6,000 |
| 💵 Personal Liability | $5,000,000 |
| 💷 High-Risk Activity Cover | Optional Add-on |
International Medical Only Plan
Focused on essential medical protection, this plan has unlimited coverage for medical and hospital expenses incurred overseas.
It is suited for Australians who need critical health-related cover without requiring the same benefits of the Comprehensive Plan, such as luggage or cancellation cover. Here’s what you get
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Limit |
| 💶 Overseas Medical Expenses | Unlimited |
| 💵 Personal Liability | $5,000,000 |
Domestic Plan
For travel within Australia, the Domestic Plan includes unlimited cancellation cover, up to $8,000 for luggage and personal effects, and $5,000 for rental car insurance excess. Additional expenses related to unexpected trip interruptions are covered up to $10,000. Here’s what you can expect
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Limit |
| 💶 Cancellation and Amendment | Unlimited |
| 💵 Luggage and Personal Effects | $8,000 |
| 💷 Rental Car Insurance Excess | $5,000 |
| 💶 Additional Expenses | $10,000 |
| 💵 Personal Liability | $5,000,000 |
Annual Multi-Trip Plan
Ideal for frequent travelers, this plan extends the benefits of the International Comprehensive Plan across multiple trips throughout the year.
Cover includes unlimited medical expenses, $15,000 for luggage, and high-limit personal liability. Customizable trip duration options ensure flexibility while maintaining comprehensive protection.
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Limit |
| 💶 Cover Duration | 30, 45, or 60 days |
| 💵 Medical Expenses | Unlimited |
| 💷 Luggage and Personal Effects | $15,000 |
| 💶 Personal Liability | $5,000,000 |
| 💵 High-Risk Activity Cover | Optional Add-on |
High-Risk Activity Cover
Medibank automatically covers abseiling, jet skiing, and parasailing activities. Riskier activities like snow sports or motorcycle riding must be added separately.
Key Features and Benefits of Medibank Travel Insurance
Medibank Travel Insurance has customizable add-on options and family-friendly benefits. Whether you’re planning an adventure-filled trip or traveling with family, Medibank offers solutions.
Unique Selling Points and Add-On Options
Travelers can enhance their policies with add-ons like snow sports and cruise cover.
- Snow sports enthusiasts can apply for additional protection covering medical expenses and equipment damage related to skiing or snowboarding.
- The cruise cover includes protection for medical issues and unexpected events while at sea.
Family and Group Travel Benefits
Medibank offers free cover to children under 21 when traveling with their parents or grandparents, making it a practical choice for families. The benefits apply to both domestic and international trips and there are additional costs.
COVID-19 and Pandemic-Related Cover
Medibank covers COVID-19-related incidents, including unlimited medical expenses if you contract the virus while traveling. The policy also covers trip cancellations and amendments if you or your travel companion are diagnosed with COVID-19 before departure.
Key Cover Details
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Description |
| 📉 Overseas Medical Cover | Unlimited medical expenses, including hospital, surgical, and emergency dental costs. |
| 📈 Cancellation Fees | Reimbursement for non-refundable trip costs due to unforeseen events. |
| 📊 Additional Expenses | Cover for emergency accommodation and transport disruptions. |
| 💹 Rental Car Insurance Excess | Protection against excess costs from rental car incidents. |
| 💱 Luggage and Personal Effects | High-value item protection for electronics and personal belongings. |
| 📉 Travel Delay Expenses | Cover for accommodation and meals during delays. |
| 📈 Alternative Transport | Costs covered for reaching missed special events due to delays. |
| 📊 Family Cover | Free policy inclusion for dependent children under 21. |
| 💹 High-Risk Activity Cover | Optional add-ons for snow sports and motorcycle riding. |
| 💱 Cruise Cover | Specific protection for medical and travel issues on cruises. |
| 📉 Emergency Assistance | 24/7 support for medical emergencies and trip adjustments. |
| 📈 COVID-19 Protection | Medical and cancellation cover related to the pandemic. |
Medibank Travel and Health Cover – What You Need to Know
Medibank Travel Insurance covers certain existing medical conditions (EMCs). Medibank requires that policyholders disclose all conditions because non-disclosure can result in claim rejection.
Medibank’s policy accommodates certain conditions automatically while requiring assessments for others.
Automatic Inclusion and Assessment of EMCs
Some conditions, like asthma, diabetes, and hypertension, are automatically covered without additional premiums if they meet specified criteria.
Medibank requires a health assessment to determine eligibility and any premium adjustments for conditions like chronic lung disease or cardiovascular issues.
The Importance of Disclosure
All EMCs, including those of traveling companions, must be disclosed during the application process. This ensures accurate risk evaluation and policy adjustments where necessary. Undisclosed EMCs can lead to rejected claims.
Steps for Completing a Health Assessment
- Disclose all EMCs during the policy application.
- Use Medibank’s online tool or consult their assistance team to evaluate your condition.
- After the assessment, Medibank might offer tailored cover or require an additional premium.
Specific Health Scenarios
- Medibank offers limited coverage for pregnancy, focusing on complications up to the 26th week.
- Medibank’s policy also covers trip changes due to the health conditions of non-traveling family members under specified criteria.
EMC Cover Breakdown
| 🔎 Covered Automatically | 📌 Requires Assessment |
| 📉 Asthma (if no severe attacks in the past 12 months) | Chronic Lung Conditions (e.g., COPD, emphysema) |
| 📈 Diabetes (Type I or II, stable condition) | Cardiovascular Disease (e.g., angina, heart attack) |
| 📊 Hypertension (controlled, no complications) | Reduced Immunity (e.g., due to immunosuppressive therapy) |
Pricing, Premiums, and Value for Money
Certain factors determine Medibank Travel Insurance premiums, each contributing to the overall cost. Key variables include destination, trip duration, traveler age, chosen plan, and the extent of cover.
Pre-existing medical conditions and the excess level can also influence the premium. Below, we’ll cover all the information potential policyholders need to understand the factors and excess and compare pricing between plans.
Factors Influencing Premiums
- Longer trips elevate exposure to potential incidents, leading to increased premiums.
- Older travelers typically face higher premiums due to elevated health risks.
- Selecting a comprehensive plan with additional cover, such as cruise insurance or increased luggage limits, raises the premium.
- Declaring pre-existing conditions can lead to adjusted premiums to account for added risks.
- Choosing a higher excess reduces the premium, as the policyholder agrees to pay a larger portion out-of-pocket in case of a claim.
- Traveling to areas with high medical costs or increased risks, such as politically unstable regions, incurs higher premiums.
Excess Selection and Premium Adjustment
Medibank lets its policyholders choose an excess amount. For example, a domestic plan starts from $194 per month with a $50 excess, while the International Comprehensive Plan begins at $260 monthly with a $250 excess.
The International Medical Only Plan is priced from $145 per month with a $250 excess. Higher excess options reduce premiums but increase out-of-pocket costs during claims.
Pricing Comparison Table
| 🔎 Plan | 💶 Starting Premium | 💵 Excess | ⭐ Key Cover |
| 🥇 Domestic Travel Insurance | $194/month | $50 | Cancellation, Luggage, Personal Liability |
| 🥈 International Comprehensive Plan | $260/month | $250 | Medical, Cancellation, Luggage |
| 🥉 International Medical Only Plan | $145/month | $250 | Medical, Personal Liability |
Medibank Travel Insurance Discounts and Incentives
Medibank Travel Insurance offers a 15% discount to Medibank and ahm health members, making it an appealing option for anyone already engaged with these health services.
The discount applies directly to travel insurance premiums and offers tangible savings for frequent or extended travel travelers.
Integrating travel insurance with their health membership reinforces Medibank’s commitment to rewarding loyalty and supporting comprehensive health management.
In addition to the premium discount, Medibank promotes healthier lifestyles using the Live Better rewards program.
Eligible members with hospital or extras cover can earn up to $400 annually by participating in health-oriented activities such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices.
Points are accumulated through everyday actions and can be redeemed for rewards, further enhancing the value of membership.
| 🔎 Discount/Incentive | 📌 Details |
| 🩷 Health Member Discount | 15% off for Medibank/ahm health members |
| 🧡 Live Better Rewards | Earn up to $400/year for engaging in healthy activities through the Live Better program |
How Do I Apply For Travel Insurance with Medibank?
Applying for Medibank Travel Insurance can be done in a few simple steps online, by phone, or in person at a Medibank branch. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application:
- Go to Medibank’s website or contact their customer service at 1300 987 830.
- Select your travel destination, which influences your premium, as countries are grouped based on the cost associated with claims.
- Go to the plan options and choose between Domestic, International, or Multi-Trip cover.
- For international policies, select an excess level of $0, $100, or $250.
- Domestic plans come with a standard $50 excess.
- If you choose an Annual Multi-Trip plan, decide on the maximum trip duration.
- Options vary from 15 to 30 days for domestic trips and up to 60 days for international travel.
- Add covers such as snow sports, moped riding, or cruise travel if you plan to participate in these activities.
- You can also increase limits for high-value items like electronics.
- Complete the traveler details. If you have any Existing Medical Conditions (EMCs), complete the online assessment to declare them.
- Based on the evaluation, additional premiums may apply.
- Select your preferred payment method.
Once payment has been received, Medibank will issue your Certificate of Insurance, confirming your coverage.
Documentation Required
- Personal Identification: Passport or driver’s license details.
- Travel Details: Destination, trip duration, and cover start date.
- Health Information: Details of any EMCs for the health assessment process.
How Can I Claim For Travel Insurance with Medibank?
Submitting a claim to Medibank Travel Insurance can be done online or via post. Here’s a detailed guide to help ensure your claim is processed quickly:
- Online Submission
- Visit Medibank’s Online Claims Portal.
- Log in using your full name and policy number.
- Complete the claim form, ensuring all required details are included.
- Upload supporting documents, such as receipts, medical, or police reports.
- Submit the claim electronically and receive a confirmation email.
- Postal Submission
- Download the Medibank Claim Form from the website.
- Gather original supporting documents, including receipts and relevant reports.
- Mail the completed form and documents to:
- Medibank Travel Insurance Team, c/o Travel Insurance Partners Claims Dept, PO Box 168, North Sydney NSW 2060 Australia
Submit the claim within 60 days of the event.
Required Documents
Here’s a list of documents you must upload or include, depending on your claim type:
- Medical reports: For claims resulting from illness or injury.
- Receipts: For expenses incurred, such as medical costs or replacement of lost items.
- Police report: For theft or loss of belongings.
- Proof of ownership: For high-value items like electronics.
Claim Processing Timeline
- Online Claims are processed within 10 business days, with email confirmation upon submission.
- Postal Claims are processed within 10 business days of receipt.
Important Tips
- Submit claims immediately, ideally within 60 days of the event.
- Provide the relevant documentation to avoid delays.
- Report theft or loss to local authorities within 7 days and get a written police report.
- Contact Medibank’s emergency assistance for urgent situations like hospitalization or significant medical expenses.
Can I add more than one person to my Medibank Travel Insurance Policy?
Medibank Travel Insurance lets policyholders include multiple adults and dependents in their policy. Here are the considerations and processes involved with adding more people to your policy:
Adding Adults
Adults listed on the Certificate of Insurance are treated like they each have an individual policy, letting them make personal claims while sharing certain benefits, such as luggage limits and excess applications.
This unique structure ensures each adult maintains independent claims rights, yet the shared aspects like luggage protection apply collectively.
Including Dependents
Dependents, referred to as “Accompanied Children,” can be added to the policy at no extra cost. These dependents must be under 21, financially dependent on the policyholder, and traveling with them.
Policy Implications and Limitations
Children traveling without their usual guardian need a separate policy. Dependents must meet the age and financial dependency requirements to be included under the “Accompanied Children” category.
Shared benefits such as luggage cover apply to all individuals under the policy, ensuring collective protection without compromising individual claim rights.
Medibank Travel Insurance Upgrades and Downgrades
To enhance your Medibank Travel Insurance, contact customer service before your trip starts to explore your add-ons. Upgrading lets you add benefits like cover for high-risk activities, including snow sports and multi-night cruises.
Additional premiums could apply depending on the add-ons. Thus, before opting for the extras, review the updated policy to understand the new benefits, costs, and waiting periods that apply.
To downgrade your Travel Insurance coverage, Contact Medibank’s customer service before your trip if you want to reduce your coverage. Downgrading lowers your premium but results in fewer benefits.
Key Considerations
- Policy Terms: Always review the new terms and conditions to understand the scope of cover and any exclusions.
- Premium Adjustments: Understand that changes in cover will affect the premium.
- Waiting Periods: Certain upgrades can introduce waiting periods for specific benefits.
- Existing Claims: Discuss with Medibank how the policy change will impact ongoing claims.
Medibank Digital Tools and Apps
The My Medibank app helps you manage your travel insurance and health-related needs.
Key Features of the My Medibank App
The app allows users to:
- Submit claims and upload documents.
- Update your personal and policy information.
- View and download important documents like your Certificate of Insurance and request tax-related documents.
- Connect to health and fitness apps to monitor your activity levels, including steps, exercise, meditation, and sleep. You can earn Live Better Points when you do this, and the points can be redeemed for rewards.
- Find nearby Members’ Choice providers and Medibank stores.
Using the App
Login is secured using a fingerprint or PIN, ensuring easy and safe access. Some features, like health tracking and Live Better Points, are only available to Medibank health insurance members, excluding those with Visitors Health Insurance, Working Visa Health Insurance, or Overseas Student Health coverage.
Medibank Travel Insurance Additional Services and Benefits
Medibank Travel Insurance has a few additional services and benefits that provide comprehensive support for travelers. These services go beyond standard cover and cover common travel disruptions and emergencies.
Emergency Assistance
Medibank provides 24/7 emergency assistance, including arranging medical evacuations, providing advice, and coordinating care with local medical facilities.
Missed Connections
If unforeseen circumstances cause you to miss a pre-booked connection, Medibank covers reasonable alternative transport costs. Accommodation and meal expenses for unexpected overnight stays are included.
Travel Document Replacement
Medibank covers the replacement costs for lost or stolen travel documents, credit cards, or traveler’s cheques. They also protect against fraudulent use following the loss or theft.
Delayed Luggage Allowance
Medibank covers clothing and toiletries if checked luggage is delayed for over 12 hours.
Moreover, Medibank reimburses cash stolen during the trip if the theft is reported immediately to the relevant authorities.
Optional Add-Ons
Medibank offers optional covers such as:
- Cruise Cover: Includes benefits for onboard medical expenses, seasickness, and cabin confinement.
- Snow Sports Cover: Provides cover for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling activities.
How to Switch to Medibank Travel Insurance
Switching to Medibank Travel Insurance from your current provider involves a few steps to ensure a seamless transition and continued cover. Here’s how to make the switch effectively:
- Review your existing travel insurance policy. Note the cover end date and any claims in progress, as Medibank won’t cover events occurring before the new policy’s start date.
- Contact Medibank for a travel insurance quote. You can do this online, by phone, or by visiting a Medibank store.
- Compare the benefits, premiums, and terms with your current policy to ensure it meets your needs.
- Medibank offers a 30-day cooling-off period for new policies.
- If you decide to cancel within this period and haven’t made a claim, you’ll receive a full refund of your premium.
- Once satisfied with Medibank’s offering, purchase your policy. If you’re already overseas without travel cover, note that there’s a three-day no-cover period during which no claims can be filed for events occurring or arising within this timeframe.
Contact your current insurer to cancel your existing policy, ensuring no overlapping or gaps in coverage. Be aware of any cancellation fees or implications for existing claims.
Key Considerations
- Avoid cover gaps by aligning your Medibank policy’s start date with your current policy’s end date.
- Compare benefits and premiums carefully to ensure better value and adequate cover.
- Manage existing claims with your previous insurer before transitioning to Medibank.
Exclusions and Limitations of Medibank Travel Insurance
Like all other insurers, Medibank Travel Insurance’s policies have exclusions and limitations to help. Taking note of these exclusions ensures that policyholders know when their claims will be paid or when Medibank will reject claims.
General Exclusions
- Claims for secondary losses, such as the cost of replacing locks after losing keys or compensation for loss of enjoyment during a trip.
- Negligence or lack of reasonable precautions resulting in loss, theft, damage, or injury will void cover.
- Claims are denied if the insured travels on an unlicensed aircraft.
- Any incidents resulting from war, rebellion, or military actions.
Specific Risks
- Claims from nuclear radiation, contamination, or exposure to harmful biological or chemical substances are not covered.
- Cover excludes incidents resulting from government restrictions or regulations, such as travel bans.
Health-Related Exclusions
- Pre-existing Medical Conditions (EMCs): Unless specifically approved and noted on the policy, claims related to EMCs.
- Known Circumstances: Claims linked to known events or conditions before policy purchase.
Legal and Environmental Factors
- Illegal Activities: Claims arising from unlawful actions by the insured.
- Contracts and Agreements: Liabilities stemming solely from contractual obligations are excluded unless the insured would have been independently liable.
Environmental Exclusions
Unless specifically included, claims related to natural disasters or terrorist acts are excluded.
Summary of Major Exclusions
| 🔎 Category | 📌 Exclusion |
| 📉 Consequential Loss | No cover for secondary losses (e.g., lock replacements after losing keys) |
| 📈 Negligence | Claims void if due to lack of reasonable care |
| 📊 Air Travel | No cover for unlicensed aircraft travel |
| 💹 War and Unrest | Claims excluded for incidents related to war or military actions |
| 💱 Nuclear and Chemical Risks | No cover for nuclear radiation or harmful chemical exposure |
| 📉 Government Actions | Excludes claims from government regulations or restrictions |
| 📈 Pre-existing Conditions | EMCs not approved and listed on the policy are excluded |
| 📊 Illegal Activities | Claims arising from illegal acts are not covered. |
| 💹 Natural Disasters | No cover for earthquakes, tsunamis, or pandemics unless specified |
| 💱 Terrorism | Losses from terrorist acts are excluded unless stated otherwise |
How Do I Contact Medibank Travel Insurance Customer Support?
Medibank Travel Insurance offers multiple channels for customer support, ensuring assistance is readily available for emergencies and general inquiries.
General Inquiries
For non-urgent matters, Medibank offers support through:
- Phone: Reach out during business hours for policy questions or assistance.
- Online Chat: Available on Medibank’s website for real-time support.
- Email: Send inquiries for a detailed response at a convenient time.
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Medibank’s emergency assistance team is available 24/7 for emergencies. This service includes:
- Medical Assistance: Help accessing appropriate medical care and treatment.
- Payment of Medical Bills: Direct payment arrangements with medical facilities.
- Medical Evacuation: Coordination of medical repatriation if necessary.
- Lost Documents: Support with replacing passports, travel documents, or credit cards.
- Travel Adjustments: Assistance in changing travel plans due to unforeseen emergencies.
Contact the emergency assistance team via:
- From New Zealand: 0800 284 346
- From the UK: 0800 096 8821
- From the USA or Canada: 1 855 802 3392
- From Other Countries: +61 2 8907 5672
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
🥇 COVID-19 Coverage and User-Friendly Platform
I bought Medibank travel insurance for a vacation. COVID-19 was covered under the comprehensive insurance. I liked the user-friendly internet platform and its peace of mind amid uncertain times.
🥈 Cruise-Specific Coverage and Confidence
Medibank covered my recent cruise. It included cruise-specific advantages, which was nice. Although I didn’t need to claim, the full cover gave me confidence throughout the trip.
How Do I Submit Feedback or Complaints?
Medibank Travel Insurance provides several channels for customers to share feedback or lodge complaints, ensuring concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently.
Feedback and Complaints Process
Online Form
Customers can submit feedback or complaints through Medibank’s online form.
Phone Support
Call Medibank’s customer support at 132 331, available Monday to Friday from 8 am to 8 pm (AEDT) and Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm (AEDT).
In-Person at Medibank Branches
Visit a local Medibank branch to speak directly with a staff member.
If your complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can escalate the matter by contacting the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman. This independent body offers free advice and helps address disputes between customers and insurers. Visit their website at www.ombudsman.gov.au or call 1300 362 072 for assistance.
Medibank Travel Insurance Awards and Recognition
Medibank Travel Insurance has earned a few awards that show how committed the insurer is to providing the best value and customer satisfaction.
In 2024, Medibank was honored with the Mozo Experts Choice Award for Exceptional Value in Ski Travel Insurance. This award shows how Medibank offers comprehensive and competitively priced cover for high-risk activities like skiing.
Moreover, Canstar has recognized Medibank’s parent company with the Outstanding Value Award for health insurance in Australia for 17 consecutive years. This consistent recognition reflects a broader commitment to quality services and excellent value across all insurance products.
Who Should Consider Medibank Travel Insurance?
Medibank Travel Insurance has flexible specific benefits, making it an ideal option for certain groups, even if they offer plans that suit most traveler groups.
- Frequent travelers will appreciate the flexibility of the Annual Multi-Trip Plan, which provides comprehensive coverage across multiple trips in a year. This plan is ideal for business travelers or regular travelers for leisure, reducing the need for separate policies per trip.
- Families are another key audience for Medibank. The automatic inclusion of children under 21 in the policy at no additional cost is a significant advantage for parents or grandparents traveling with young dependents.
- Adventure seekers and those engaging in high-risk activities will benefit from Medibank’s specialized add-ons. The optional high-risk activity cover includes snow sports and motorcycle riding.
Overall, Medibank Travel Insurance most ideal for frequent travelers, families, and adventurers who can receive tailored cover options.
Medibank Travel Insurance vs Bupa Travel Insurance vs 1Cover Travel Insurance – a Comparison
| 🔎 Provider | 🥇 Medibank Travel Insurance | 🥈 Bupa Travel Insurance | 🥉 1Cover Travel Insurance |
| 📉 Plan Name | International, Domestic, Multi-Trip | International Plus, International Essentials, Domestic, Annual Multi-Trip | Single Trip, Annual Multi-Trip, Domestic, Comprehensive, Medical Only |
| 💶 Premium Range (Trip-Based or Annual) | From $145 per month (Medical-Only, no discount) | From $36/month for Essentials, $50/month for Plus | From $115.20 per month on Domestic Plans |
| 📈 Key Cover Areas | Medical, cancellation, luggage, delays | Medical, cancellations, personal liability, emergency assistance, COVID-19 benefits | Medical Cover, Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Baggage Loss, Personal Liability, Emergency Evacuation |
| ❌ Exclusions | Pre-existing conditions, unlicensed travel, war-related events | Excludes high-risk activities without add-on, pregnancy-related past 24 weeks | Pre-existing conditions, high-risk destinations, pandemic exclusions except for COVID-19 |
| 📊 COVID-19 Cover | Medical, trip cancellation, quarantine expenses | Medical costs and trip disruptions for COVID-19 | Medical costs and quarantine expenses |
| 🩷 Ideal For | Families, frequent travelers, adventure seekers | Travelers seeking flexible add-ons for adventure activities and high cover limits | Domestic, International, Frequent Travellers, and anyone who wants to add cover for adventurous activities |
| 🏈 Adventure Sports Cover | Optional add-on for skiing, snowboarding, moped riding | Add-on available for high-risk sports like skiing and diving | Available as add-ons (Snow Cover and Winter Sports) |
| 🚨 Emergency Assistance | 24/7 global support, medical evacuation | 24/7 emergency support | 24/7 emergency assistance, including medical and non-medical support |
| 📲 Digital Access and Mobile App | My Medibank app, policy management, claims filing | Access via the myBupa app and online portal | No app; only offers the online portal |
| ⏰ Average Claim Settlement Time | 10 business days | Within 10 days of completing the documentation submission | 10 business days |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Unlimited overseas medical cover | Higher premiums for comprehensive plans compared to competitors |
| High-value item protection available depending on the plan | Exclusions for certain pre-existing medical conditions |
| Comprehensive trip cancellation cover | Limited cover for certain high-risk destinations |
| Family-friendly policies with free child cover (subject to eligibility) | Additional premiums for certain activities |
| 24/7 emergency assistance for policyholders | No cover for war-related incidents |
| High-risk activity cover available on certain sports and adventure activities | Claims for negligence or lack of reasonable care are denied |
| Strong financial backing from Zurich Insurance Group | Limited cover for natural disasters without specific inclusion |
In Conclusion
Overall, our research shows that Medibank Travel Insurance has a long history of offering insurance since 1976, and there’s a dedicated focus on travel insurance since 2006.
Award recognitions and high customer satisfaction ratings across platforms demonstrate Medibank’s strong industry presence. The streamlined online portal and a user-friendly app enhance the management of health and travel policies, offering customers convenient access to different services.
Medibank’s competitive edge is strengthened by transparent policy terms and a 15% discount for existing Medibank or ahm health members. However, there are areas where Medibank could expand its offerings. The limited range of plans might not cater to all traveler needs, and the resources available could be more comprehensive.
Age restrictions for child dependents, especially those over 21, limit its suitability for families with older children. Overall, while Medibank has extensive cover and unique additional features, addressing the key areas where expansion is required can boost its appeal and overall flexibility for a broader Australian audience.
You might also like:
- Fast Cover Travel Insurance
- InsureandGo Travel Insurance
- Nib Travel Insurance
- NRMA Travel Insurance
- Zoom Travel Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive a refund if I cancel my Medibank Travel Insurance policy?
Yes, Medibank has a 21-day cooling-off period during which you can receive a refund if you haven’t started your trip or claimed. Once the cooling-off period passes, you won’t be eligible for a refund when you cancel your policy.
Does my Medibank Travel Insurance policy cover children?
Yes, but there are limits. Children or grandchildren under 21 can be added to your policy for free. However, dependents over 21 are subject to age limitations and require additional policies, which will increase premiums.
Can I get Medibank Travel Insurance when I’m currently overseas?
Yes, you can purchase insurance while traveling, but there is a three-day no-cover period. This means that coverage is unavailable within the first three days of the new policy, and you could face out-of-pocket expenses.
Is there an age restriction on Medibank Travel Insurance policies?
Medibank provides travel insurance to anyone over 70, but premiums increase as policyholders age. Policy availability depends on the destination, trip duration, and whether it is a Single or Annual Multi-Trip policy.
