Travel insurance is not a visa requirement for most working holiday makers, but it is strongly recommended. Australian hospital and ambulance bills can be very expensive. Choose a policy that covers working, the full length of your stay and the activities you plan to do.
Last checked: 25 October 2026
What to look for
- Medical and hospital cover, including ambulance
- Cover while you are working (some policies exclude manual work)
- Adventure activities such as surfing, diving and skydiving
- Cover for the full length of your trip, with the option to extend
- Your phone, laptop and bags
Medicare and reciprocal agreements
Australia has reciprocal health care agreements with Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Ireland, Slovenia, Sweden and the UK. If you are from one of these countries you may get some medically necessary treatment through Medicare, but not everything, and not ambulance in most states. Insurance still matters.
Get a quote
World Nomads offers travel insurance built for working holidays and adventure travel, and you can buy or extend while already travelling.
Get a World Nomads quoteFrequently asked questions
Is travel insurance compulsory for a working holiday visa?
It is not a standard visa requirement for most applicants, but it is strongly recommended because medical costs in Australia can be high.
Can I buy travel insurance after I arrive in Australia?
Some insurers, including World Nomads, let you buy or extend cover while you are already travelling. Check the policy wording.
Official sources: Services Australia: reciprocal health care agreements. Rules change, so always check the official source before you apply or sign anything.
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