Ouch. But hey, it’s not all bad news. Sure, it might feel like just another annoying adulting moment – but getting your own cover can actually be a pretty smart move.
Here’s what to know (and why going solo might work out in your favour).
How long can I stay on my parents’ policy?
At see-u by HBF, you can stay on a family policy if you’re:
- Under 23 years old, or
- Under 25 and a full-time student
- Not married or in a de facto relationship
Good to know: your income doesn’t affect your eligibility as a dependant. But if you’re starting to tick off any of the above, it might be time to look at getting your own cover.
Why getting your own cover isn’t a bad thing
Here’s what you could gain by taking out your own policy:
- Cover that actually suits your lifestyle – get covered for the things you’ll actually use
- Your own benefits, your own way – manage claims and payments yourself
- You might even save – depending on your age and what your parents are paying to keep you on
- Score the age-based discount – join before 30 and you’ll get a discount on your hospital premium until you’re 41
Also, if you earn over $101,000? You’ll want to stay covered - whether on your own or your parents’ policy - to avoid paying the Medicare Levy Surcharge at tax time. (Hot tip: any complying hospital policy counts.)
Signs you’re ready to fly solo
- You’ve finished studying and aged out of family cover
- You’re working full-time and financially independent
- You want extras cover that suits your life (hello physio, goodbye orthodontics)
- You’re under 30 and want to lock in your age-based discount
- You’re ready to take your health (and your finances) into your own hands
Not sure where to start?
We’ll keep it simple — answer a few quick questions and we’ll show you the cover that fits where you’re at right now.
FAQs
Q: What age do I get kicked off my parents’ health insurance in Australia?
A: At see-u by HBF, you can stay on a family policy until you’re under 23, or under 25 if you're a full-time student, unmarried, and not in a de facto relationship.
Q: Can I stay on my parents' health insurance if I earn over $101,000?
A: Yes. Income doesn't affect your eligibility as a dependant – only age, student status, and relationship status do.
Q: Will I pay the Medicare Levy Surcharge if I’m on my parents’ policy?
A: No. As long as you’re covered by any complying hospital policy, including a family one, you won’t be charged the MLS.
Q: Is there a benefit to getting my own policy before 30?
A: Yes – if you take out eligible hospital cover before turning 30, you can access the age-based discount and save on your premiums until you’re 41.
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