The Australian health system

Australia’s health system is a mix of public and private providers delivering an outstanding range of services resulting in great health outcomes for Australians.

Amongst this mix of Commonwealth and State funding and public and private providers, nearly 45 per cent of Australians are covered by private health insurance for hospital treatment and about 52 per cent for ancillary treatment.  

Private health insurance guarantees timely access to a wide range of doctors and specialists, private hospitals and services. Private health insurance gives Australians greater choice and flexibility in managing their health.  

The Australian Government encourages Australians to purchase private health insurance through a number of incentives.  For further information on private health insurance, including incentives see www.privatehealth.gov.au