Health Insurance for Singles
One person, one policy — simple in theory. But choosing the wrong level of cover (or no cover at all) can cost you thousands. Here's exactly what a single Australian needs in 2025–26.
Do Singles Actually Need Private Health Insurance?
There are three separate financial reasons a single Australian should have private hospital cover — and you only need one of them to apply to make it worth it.
What Level of Cover Does a Single Actually Need?
| Tier | Who it's for | Est. cost/month† | Avoids MLS? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Under 31, healthy, budget-conscious | $80–$120 | ✅ Yes |
| Silver | 30s–50s, wants solid surgical cover | $120–$170 | ✅ Yes |
| Gold | Planning family or high health needs | $160–$230 | ✅ Yes |
†Estimated range after applying the government rebate for singles earning $101,000 or less. Actual premiums vary by fund, age, state, and excess chosen. Source: representative market pricing, March 2026.
Bronze hospital + basic extras is the right starting point for most single Australians in their 20s and early 30s. It satisfies the LHC requirement, qualifies for the youth discount, avoids the MLS if you later cross $101k, and covers real hospital risks — all for around $80–$120/month after the government rebate.
What should you actually pay?
Tell us your age and income and our agents show you the real cost — after your government rebate — for the right level of cover.
See my real price →Government Rebate — What You're Entitled To
The government rebate reduces your premium based on your income. Current rates (2025–26, under 65s):
| Tier | Singles income | Rebate |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $101,000 or less | 24.288% |
| Tier 1 | $101,001 – $118,000 | 16.192% |
| Tier 2 | $118,001 – $158,000 | 8.095% |
| Tier 3 | $158,001+ | 0% |
Rates current from 1 July 2025 to 31 March 2026. Source: privatehealth.gov.au. Higher rebate rates apply for ages 65–69 and 70+. Family thresholds increase by $1,500 per child after the first.
Is Extras Cover Worth It for Singles?
Extras (dental, optical, physio) is worth it if you use it regularly. The question is whether your likely claims exceed the ~$25–$40/month premium.
Two dental visits + one pair of glasses typically exceeds the annual extras premium for most mid-tier policies. If you skip dental and don't wear glasses, extras may not be cost-effective for you.