Health Insurance for Couples
Two people, one decision — but the right structure makes a real difference to what you pay and what you're covered for. Here's everything couples need to know about private health insurance in 2025–26.
Joint Policy vs Separate Policies
Most couples choose a joint (couples) policy — one policy covering both partners. But it's worth understanding both options:
The Medicare Levy Surcharge for Couples
The MLS family threshold for couples in 2025–26 is $202,000 combined income. If your combined income exceeds this and either partner lacks private hospital cover, the higher-earning partner pays the surcharge.
| Combined income | MLS rate | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| $202,000 or less | 0% | No action needed |
| $202,001–$236,000 | 1.0% | Both partners need hospital cover |
| $236,001–$316,000 | 1.25% | Both partners need hospital cover |
| $316,001+ | 1.5% | Both partners need hospital cover |
Find the right cover for both of you
Our agents compare couples policies across our fund panel — showing your real combined cost after the government rebate, and planning around both LHC deadlines.
Compare couples cover →Planning a Family: The Obstetrics Timeline
This is the most time-sensitive health insurance decision couples face. Obstetrics is only covered on Gold hospital policies, with a 12-month waiting period. You must be on Gold for at least 12 months before your birth — not before you fall pregnant.
If you upgrade to Gold after you're already pregnant, the current pregnancy will not be covered. The 12-month wait must be fully served. We recommend upgrading to Gold at least 15 months before your planned due date to allow for conception timing.
Two LHC Deadlines to Track
Each partner has their own LHC base day — 1 July following their 31st birthday. If one partner is 28 and the other is 33, the 28-year-old still has time to join without loading while the 33-year-old already has a 6% loading. A joint policy ensures both are covered — but make sure the policy is in place before the younger partner's deadline passes too.