Budget Policy

  If you're an international student or temporary visa holder in Australia, having valid  OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)  or  OVHC(Overseas Visitor Health Cover)  is essential. These policies not only help cover eligible medical expenses but are also required for many Australian visas. But what happens if your health insurance provider decides to leave the Australian market? Although it's uncommon, insurers may stop offering certain products, merge with another company, or transfer their customers to a different provider. If this happens, it's important to understand your options so you can continue meeting your visa requirements without any interruption. Will You Lose Your Health Insurance? The good news is that your health cover doesn't usually end immediately. In most cases, your insurer will contact you in advance and explain what happens next. Depending on the situation, you may be: ·          Transfer...

  Australia continues to be one of the top study destinations for students from Sri Lanka. With globally recognised universities, excellent career opportunities, and a high standard of living, it's an attractive choice for higher education. However, before beginning your studies, it's important to understand one essential requirement— Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) . OSHC is mandatory for most international students applying for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). It helps cover eligible medical expenses while you're living and studying in Australia, reducing the financial burden of unexpected healthcare costs. Many Sri Lankan students purchase the first OSHC policy recommended by their university. While these plans meet visa requirements, they may not always be the most affordable or suitable option. That's why it's worth taking time to compare different providers before making a decision. When choosing an OSHC policy, consider more than just the prem...

Studying in Australia has always required careful financial planning, but in 2026, managing your budget has become even more important. The Australian Government has increased the Subclass 500 Student Visa application fee to AUD 2,500 , adding more pressure on international students. At the same time, the cost of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) has also increased due to higher private health insurance premiums. As a result, choosing the right OSHC policy is no longer just a visa requirement—it's an important financial decision. Comparing plans before you buy can help you avoid unnecessary costs and find health cover that suits both your needs and your budget. Why Are OSHC Premiums Increasing? Health insurance premiums in Australia are reviewed regularly, and recent changes have led to higher costs for many international students. The Australian Government approved an average 4.41% increase in private health insurance premiums, affecting most OSHC providers . The increa...

  Moving to Australia as an international student comes with a long checklist—finding accommodation, enrolling in classes, opening a bank account, and arranging Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) . Most students know OSHC is required for their visa, but many don't fully understand what it covers until they actually need medical treatment. One of the most common questions students ask is: "Does OSHC cover dental and optical services?" Unfortunately, many students discover the answer only after receiving an unexpected bill. The Common Assumption Many international students assume that because they have health insurance, services such as: Dental check-ups Teeth cleaning Eye tests Prescription glasses Contact lenses will automatically be covered. It sounds reasonable. After all, if you're paying for health insurance, why wouldn't these treatments be included? The reality is a little different. What Does OSHC Actually Cover? OSHC Australia is designed to help intern...