Student Visa UK Health Insurance (post-grad research)

[jamie-c]

Hey, first post here so I hope someone can help. I've just been offered a HDR scholarship to do my PhD in QLD and I'm coming with my family (partner and two kids) from the UK. I had read that we will need multifamily cover which is going to be around $30,000 after the amount my scholarship covers. However I've just read that if you're from the UK you don't need this for your visa as you're covered under the reciprocal health care agreement. 

Can anyone advise if I'll need to pay for the private health insurance or if I should be able to get the visa without? I've got the money to do it but obviously if I can get it covered then it would be a huge bonus. I've contacted the uni but the wait times are pretty long for a response at the moment so thought I'd try here. 

 

Thanks

[Marisawright]

17 hours ago, jamie-c said:

Hey, first post here so I hope someone can help. I've just been offered a HDR scholarship to do my PhD in QLD and I'm coming with my family (partner and two kids) from the UK. I had read that we will need multifamily cover which is going to be around $30,000...

If you're from the UK, you're covered for essential medical care by the reciprocal agreement.  However I'm afraid that won't let you off the hook, IF the conditions of your visa require you to hold full insurance cover for the duration of your visa. The cover you need would be Overseas cover, not the health insurance that's available to Australian residents. 

The quickest way to find out might be to contact some of the insurance providers and get a quote.  Their online 'instant quote' doesn't make any mention of reciprocal agreements so you may have to email/message them to ask.

https://www.finder.com.au/health-insurance/overseas-visitors-health-cover/best-ovhc