With Australian private health insurance premiums set to jump by 4.41%, will policies deliver more or just cost more?
The Guardian World
by Melissa DaveyFebruary 18, 2026
The biggest premium hike in 10 years prompts questions, as government incentives continue to drive people to take out cover merely to avoid tax penalties
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The government has approved a 4.41% private health insurance premium rise from April – the largest hike in almost 10 years.
With consumers already grappling with cost-of-living pressures, including an interest rate rise earlier in February, more Australians are likely to be wondering whether keeping their private health insurance is worth it.
Melissa Davey is Guardian Australia’s medical editor
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/18/2026