COVID-19 Information
for Members

Supporting international students, visitors and workers with helpful resources and frequently asked questions about cover and COVID-19

The Australian Government has developed a COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan with the aim of having as many people vaccinated as possible in 2021. As vaccines become available, they will go to people in higher risk groups first. Information about the rollout plan can be found on the Department of Health website.

 

The Australian Government has advised that the COVID-19 vaccination will be free for all Medicare-eligible Australians and all visa-holders. More information is expected as the vaccine rollout progresses.

 

Note: We have been made aware of scammers falsely claiming that you can get priority to receive the vaccine by paying. This is incorrect. For more information about scams or to report a scam please visit the  Australian Competition and Consumer Commissions Scamwatch website. 

Cover is available to OSHC policyholders for medical services provided in hospital and out of hospital, including PBS prescription medicines and emergency treatment*.

*Limits, exclusions and terms and conditions apply. Please note that waiting periods may apply for treatment for pre-existing conditions.

Students can contact us to discuss their individual case:

  • General enquiries within Australia                   13 67 42
  • Claims                                                                      1800 651 349

We encourage students to contact their education provider to discuss possible deferment of studies if they are unable to return to Australia to continue their studies.

For further information about changes to your student visa visit the Department of Home Affairs.

If you purchased your OSHC through your institution, an education agent or from our website, you can change the dates of your policy by contacting us:

You will need your Policy Number (found on your Certificate of Insurance) and new policy start date which should match your flight itinerary. If you don’t have your policy number please call us on 13 67 42 to discuss options. 

There is no limitation on how many times a policy start date and policy end date can be changed for your OSHC.

If you have any concerns about what COVID-19 may mean for your student visa, we encourage you to discuss your situation with the Department of Home Affairs.

Because OSHC policies are paid up-front and in full, hardship assistance is not available for members. However, you may be eligible to apply for a refund of your premium if you meet the criteria set out in the OSHC policy wording.

The Australian Government has developed a COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan with the aim of having as many people vaccinated as possible in 2021. As vaccines become available, they will go to people in higher risk groups first. Information about the rollout plan can be found on the Department of Health website.

 

The Australian Government has advised that the COVID-19 vaccination will be free for all Medicare-eligible Australians and all visa-holders. More information is expected as the vaccine rollout progresses.

 

Note: We have been made aware of scammers falsely claiming that you can get priority to receive the vaccine by paying. This is incorrect. For more information about scams or to report a scam please visit the Australian Competition and Consumer Commissions Scamwatch website. 

Cover is available to policyholders, however, please note this will vary depending on the level of cover you have purchased.

If you have Budget Cover

Cover is available to OVHC Budget policy holders for medical services provided in hospital including emergency treatment when leading to an inpatient admission, and ambulance services*

If you have Standard Cover, Mid Working Cover or Top Working Cover

OVHC Standard, Mid Working and Top Working policy holders are covered for medical services in hospital, emergency treatment, ambulance services, as well as medical services out of hospital, including GP visits, pathology, and prescription medicines*.

Members can contact us to discuss their individual case:

  • Phone (within Australia)            1300 727 193
  • Phone (from overseas)              +61 7 3305 8833

 *Limits, exclusions and terms and conditions apply. Please note that waiting periods may apply for treatment for pre-existing conditions.

You can change the dates of your policy as many times as you need to by contacting us:

Office hours:  8.30am to 5:00pm AEST, Monday to Friday

If you have any concerns about what COVID-19 may mean for your visa, we encourage you to discuss your situation with the Department of Home Affairs.

If you are an existing member, you can upgrade your current policy to one that offers a higher level of benefits. You will need to serve the applicable waiting periods for any benefits not covered under your existing policy. Please read our OVHC policy wording for further details.

If you no longer need OVHC, you can cancel your policy by following the instructions on our FAQs in our Help Centre. Please check your visa conditions before cancelling as some visas may require you to maintain adequate health insurance while in Australia. You can check your visa by visiting the Department of Home Affairs


Please note: Allianz Care Australia is required to provide your name and contact details to the Department of Home Affairs if you cancel your OVHC policy or obtain a refund and your visa is subject to condition 8501

If you are experiencing financial difficulties and having trouble paying their OVHC premiums, you may be eligible for hardship assistance. We assess each situation on a case-by-case basis. We encourage members to contact us so that we can discuss which options may be available to them.

Office hours:  8.30am to 5:00pm AEST, Monday to Friday.

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The Department of Heath provide the information on health in Australia. 

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

TRANSLATED RESOURCES
Stay up to date with the latest information about your visa from the Department of Home Affairs.
Department of Home Affairs