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Victoria has one of the best public health systems in the world. If you need emergency treatment, this is one of the best places in the world to receive it. You’ll always be able to receive treatment in Victoria. Most universities offer health services, including dentists, doctors and other healthcare professionals.

Health Care for International Students

Australia has a system of health cover for international students called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Students are required to have this cover while they are in Australia. It provides a safety net for international students similar to that provided to Australian citizens through Medicare, Australia’s national health insurance system.

Exceptions

The Australian Department of Health and Aged Care have advised that students from Sweden and Norway do not require OSHC as these countries have national health schemes which provide adequate health cover.

What it Covers

OSHC covers most medical expenses and the cost of hospital care in Victoria, as well as most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport, although it doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, such as pregnancy. Dental, optical and physiotherapy are not covered.

Arranging OSHC Cover

Your institution will arrange OSHC cover for you. Please note that if you fail some units and therefore require an extension of your OSHC, it will be your responsibility to organise this directly with your OSHC provider. Again, it is recommended that you contact your institution to confirm arrangements.

Premiums

Premiums generally start from around A$75 for three months (A$312 for a year), however rates will vary according to the length of stay in Australia and your OSHC provider. You’ll need a family premium if your spouse and/or dependent children are accompanying you. If your course of study is for less than three months or you are are travelling to Australia under a visa other than a student visa, you will not be eligible for OSHC. Travel insurance is recommended in this case.

You may be able to claim for holiday credit when you return to your home country for the semester break.  Your institution will be able to advise you further.

Students are responsible for their own accident and property insurance while living in Victoria. It’s also wise to arrange travel insurance before leaving your country.

More Information

The official Australian Government website for international students, Study in Australia, provides more information about how to apply for Overseas Student Health Cover,