The 2026 health insurance price rise — what it means for you
On 1 April 2026, health insurance premiums rose by an industry average of 4.41% — the biggest annual increase since 2017. But the average hides the real story: some funds rose far more than others, which is exactly why now is the time to compare.
Across the five biggest funds, the price of Gold cover has risen around 71% in five years — far ahead of the ‘average’ increases.
Source: CHOICE, 2026.
What you can do
Two ways to get ahead of the rise. An advisor can do the maths with you in 15 minutes.
Prepay before your fund increases
Pay up to 12 or 18 months of premiums at your current rate before the increase hits. It locks in today’s price for the period you prepay.
Compare and switch
Move to a fund that raised prices less for comparable cover. You keep your waiting periods on equivalent benefits, so switching is usually faster than people think.
See how your fund compares
Free. No obligation. We never mark up your premium.
Who is the cover for?
So we can price it correctly.
Free. No obligation. We never mark up your premium.
Related reading
Switching health funds (without losing waits)
How portability rules let you keep your waiting periods.
Read more: Switching health funds (without losing waits)Medicare Levy Surcharge explained
When hospital cover saves you more in tax than it costs.
Read more: Medicare Levy Surcharge explainedWaiting periods: what to expect
Standard waits for hospital and extras services.
Read more: Waiting periods: what to expect
Don’t pay more than you need to in 2026
One quick form, one expert advisor, 14 Australian funds compared.