Ambulance Cover in Victoria: What You Need to Know

In Victoria, ambulance services are not fully covered under Medicare, making it essential to understand your options for ambulance cover. With costs for an emergency call-out exceeding $1,200 and more for longer trips or specialised services, having the right cover can save you from unexpected financial stress.

This guide explains how ambulance cover works in Victoria, who automatically receives it, and how private health insurance can assist.

Do Victorians Need Ambulance Cover?

Yes—all Victorians who are not eligible for free or state-subsidised ambulance services should seriously consider ambulance cover. Ambulance services are expensive, and without proper coverage, you will need to pay for the full cost of transport and on-road care.

Here’s why ambulance cover matters:

Emergency Call-Out Costs: A standard emergency ambulance trip in Victoria can cost over $1,200.

Air Ambulance Fees: Air ambulance services can cost upwards of $5,000.

High-Risk Costs: Intensive care transports, which include specialist paramedic teams and advanced medical equipment, can add thousands to the bill.

Having ambulance cover ensures these services are accessible without creating a financial burden during emergencies.

Do Concession Cardholders Get Free Ambulance Cover?

Yes, eligible concession cardholders and their dependents receive free ambulance services in Victoria. The state government funds this coverage for:

• Holders of a Pensioner Concession Card

• Holders of a Health Care Card

Your ambulance cover applies to both emergency and non-emergency transport within Victoria. For interstate trips, you may need additional insurance, as coverage varies based on state regulations.

Does Private Health Insurance Cover Ambulance Costs?

Private health insurance can be another effective way to ensure ambulance coverage. However, coverage levels depend on your policy and provider.

What’s Covered by Private Health Insurance?

Many insurers offer ambulance cover under hospital cover, extras cover, or as a standalone policy. Key points include:

Emergency Transport: Coverage often includes unlimited trips for emergency ambulance services.

Non-Emergency Transport: Some policies extend to non-emergency transport, but limits and conditions may apply.

Interstate Ambulance Services: Ambulance Victoria membership covers you inside Victoria, and offers the same level of cover while you’re interstate. Nationwide ambulance cover is provided by appropriate health cover.

Pro tip: Always check whether your policy covers air ambulance services, as not all plans include this.

What Happens If I Don’t Have Ambulance Cover?

Without cover, you’ll need to pay the full cost of any ambulance transport or treatment. Here are some examples of potential costs:

Emergency callout (state-wide average): $1,200–$1,600.

Air ambulance (helicopter/plane): $5,000–$10,000+.

Non-emergency transport: Costs vary by distance and service level but start from a few hundred dollars.

The high cost of ambulance services is why most Victorians opt for either Ambulance Victoria membership or private health insurance with ambulance cover.

Taking the Next Step

Ambulance cover protects you and your family from potentially overwhelming costs in medical emergencies. Whether you choose Ambulance Victoria membership or private health insurance, having the right cover ensures peace of mind and financial security.

To explore private health insurance options that include ambulance cover, chat with our Compare Club specialists today. We’ll help you find a policy# tailored to your health needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicare Cover Ambulance Services in Victoria?

No, Medicare does not cover ambulance services in Victoria or any other state. Most Victorians will need specific ambulance cover (via Ambulance Victoria or private health insurance) to avoid out-of-pocket expenses for transport and paramedic care.

Are Air Ambulance Services Covered?

Yes, air ambulances are covered under Ambulance Victoria membership and most comprehensive private health insurance policies. However, air ambulance coverage generally requires clinical necessity for medical emergencies.

Do I Need Ambulance Cover if I Have Private Health Insurance?

If your private health insurance includes ambulance cover, you may not need a separate Ambulance Victoria membership. However, it’s worth confirming.

Is air and interstate transport included?

Are there limits on the number of ambulance trips claimed annually?

For those who prefer simple, standalone coverage, Ambulance Victoria membership may still be the better option.

Does Ambulance Coverage Apply Interstate?

Ambulance Victoria Membership: Covers you in Victoria and interstate.

Private Health Insurance: Many policies include nationwide ambulance coverage, making it a great option if you travel interstate frequently.

Sources

• Ambulance Victoria

• Department of Health

• Australian Government Private Health Insurance Ombudsman

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Chris Stanley is the sales & operations manager of health insurance at Compare Club. With extensive experience and expertise, Chris is a trusted leader known for his deep understanding of health insurance markets, policies, and coverage options. As the sales & operations manager of health insurance, Chris leads a team of dedicated professionals committed to helping individuals and families make informed decisions about their health insurance needs.

Meet our health insurance expert, Chris Stanley

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