Best Travel Insurance Australia – Sydney, Gold Coast and More

If you’re planning to head to the Land Down Under soon, find out what the top travel insurance plans from Singapore to Australia are, including important coverage to take note of and some FAQs.

Best Travel Insurance: TIQ Travel Insurance | MSIG TravelEasy | Allianz Travel Insurance | Ergo TravelProtect | Singlife Travel Insurance | Sompo Travel Insurance | Tokio Marine Travel Insurance | Allied World Travel Insurance | Starr Travel Insurance | FWD Travel Insurance | AIG Travel Guard

Planning a trip from Singapore to Australia? While the Land Down Under offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable experiences, it's also important to remember that not every trip will be a bed of roses—there are some precautions you’ll need to take while you’re abroad.

Ensuring you have the best travel insurance that suits your needs can make all the difference in your peace of mind during your trip.

Without further ado, we present to you some of the best travel insurance plans to protect you while you’re overseas. Whether you're a beachcomber, an adventure enthusiast, or a city explorer, these insurance plans are designed to keep you covered and worry-free throughout your journey.

Table of contents:

• Best travel insurance plans for travelling to Australia from Singapore
  • FWD
  • Singlife
  • Tiq
• Important travel insurance coverage for Bali
  • Medical expenses
  • Loss of belongings
  • COVID-19 medical expenses
  • Flight delay or cancellation
  • Car rental excess
• FAQs

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Best travel insurance plans with vehicle excess for travelling to Australia

Travelling by vehicle across the vast and diverse landscapes of Australia can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its share of risks. From bustling city highways to remote outback roads, driving in Australia presents unique challenges that require careful preparation and awareness. Understanding these risks is essential for anyone planning to drive during their visit.

Potential dangers of being on the road

While exploring Australia by car, drivers may encounter several hazards that can significantly impact their journey:

• Skidding: Sudden changes in weather can lead to slippery roads, especially in areas like tropical north during the wet season or in southern regions during winter. Skidding is a common danger that can result in loss of vehicle control.

• Animal Collisions: Australia is home to a wide range of wildlife, and animal crossings are frequent. Collisions with animals, particularly with large kangaroos at dawn or dusk, can cause significant damage and pose safety risks.

• Driver Fatigue: Long distances between destinations can lead to driver fatigue, a major cause of accidents on Australian roads. It’s crucial to plan adequate breaks and share the driving responsibilities on longer trips.

On-Road Safety Tips

To mitigate these risks and ensure a safe driving experience in Australia, consider the following safety tips:

• Plan Your Route: Familiarise yourself with your route and plan your journey, including rest stops, especially if travelling through less populated areas.

• Avoid Driving at Risk Times: Reduce the risk of animal collisions by avoiding driving at dawn, dusk, or night in rural areas where wildlife is more active.

• Manage Fatigue: Take regular breaks during long drives—ideally, rest for at least 15 minutes every 2 hours. Consider staying overnight in towns along your route if undertaking extensive road trips.

• Be Weather-Wise: Stay updated on weather conditions and avoid driving during extreme weather if possible. If you encounter wet or slippery roads, reduce your speed and increase your following distance to allow for greater braking distance.

Insurance coverage is crucial when travelling overseas, especially in countries like Australia where you might be liable for high excess costs in the event of an accident. Ensure that your travel insurance plan adequately covers the types of risks associated with your travel plans and activities.

Product							Apply
FWD First Apply Now	Up to S$1,000,000	Available as a rider Up to S$200,000	Up to S$15,000	Up to S$900 S$150/6h	Up to S$1,000	From S$32.40	Apply Now
Tiq Travel Luxury Apply Now	Up to S$1,000,000	Opt for COVID-19 add-on  Up to S$500,000	Up to S$10,000	Up to S$200 S$100/6h	Up to S$1,000 (as add-on)	From S$43	Apply Now
Allianz Travel Comprehensive Platinum Plan - Worldwide Apply Now	Up to S$1,000,000	Opt for COVID-19 add-on  Same coverage with medical expenses	up to S$15,000	Up to S$1,400	Up to S$3,000	From S$62	Apply Now
MSIG Premier Plan Apply Now	Up to S$1,000,000	Up to S$250,000	Up to S$15,000	Up to S$1,500 S$250/6h	Up to S$1,500	From S$76	Apply Now
Singlife Travel Prestige Apply Now	Up to unlimited coverage	Up to S$200,000	Up to S$20,000 Up to S$5,000 for any reason	Up to S$2,000 S$200/6h	Up to S$2,500	From S$53.95	Apply Now
Starr TraveLead Gold Plan - Worldwide (Annual) Apply Now	Up to S$1,000,000	Up to S$100,000	Up to S$15,000	Up to S$1,200 S$100/6h	Up to S$1,200	From S$40.80	Apply Now
AIG Travel Guard® Direct - Supreme Apply Now	Up to S$2,500,000	Up to S$250,000	Up to S$15,000	Up to S$1,400	Up to S$1,500	From S$68	Apply Now

*Based on a 7-day trip to Australia

Best value-for-money: FWD Travel Insurance

If you're in search of a cost-effective travel insurance plan that offers substantial coverage, FWD travel insurance is a great option. With prices starting at just S$32.40 for a 7-day trip to Australia, FWD's travel insurance stands out for its competitive premiums compared to other options. It's important to note that these premiums are stated before any discounts, which means you can save even more!

However, when it comes to evaluating the scope of coverage, it doesn’t fall short. FWD Travel Insurance offers substantial coverage for overseas medical expenses, allowing claims of up to S$1,000,000. Moreover, their coverage for trip cancellation is notably generous, providing protection of up to S$15,000.

The only downside is that the standard plan doesn’t include COVID-19 coverage, but you have the option to purchase an add-on rider for an extra cost of S$12.30 (applicable to a 7-day trip to Australia). This additional rider offers coverage of up to S$200,000 for medical expenses related to COVID-19, a daily overseas quarantine allowance of S$50 for a maximum of 14 days, and trip disruption coverage of up to S$5,000.

Beyond its affordability, FWD Travel Insurance boasts a user-friendly claims process and efficient customer service. You can easily submit your claims through the FWD SG App and seek assistance if necessary.

Also, FWD just added coverage for trip cancellation, postponement or curtailment for any reason, up to S$6,000. This is only applicable if you purchase the add-on within 7 days from the initial trip deposit for your trip.

Best for comprehensive coverage: Singlife Travel Insurance

If you’re seeking an all-rounded comprehensive travel insurance plan for your trip to Australia, look no further than Singlife. They provide extensive coverage on all fronts and even cover unique scenarios like the loss of bridal accessories, inclement weather conditions, and trip cancellations for any reason.

The most impressive thing is that with Singlife's Travel Prestige plan, you’re provided with unlimited coverage for medical expenses, which is rare compared to other providers.

Their coverage for travel cancellations extends to a maximum of S$15,000, while trip cancellations for any reason are capped at S$5,000 for both Travel Plus and Travel Prestige Plans. This means you have the flexibility to cancel your plans due to conflicting events, changes in your itinerary, or simply a change of heart. However, it's important to note that you must purchase your policy within 7 days of booking your flights or hotels to be eligible for a claim.

Singlife also offers a unique benefit in the form of rainfall coverage, providing compensation of up to S$150 if rainfall exceeds 6.4mm within a 24-hour period and disrupts your travel plans. Additionally, their coverage extends to adventurous activities such as white-water rafting, jet skiing, and kayaking, making it an excellent choice for those seeking overseas sports adventures.

Importantly, this plan includes COVID-19 coverage, offering up to S$200,000 for overseas medical expenses.

Best for COVID-19 coverage: TIQ Travel Insurance

TIQ also sets itself apart with its comprehensive coverage of COVID-19. You can experience peace of mind knowing that TIQ offers COVID-19 coverage that goes as far as S$500,000 for medical expenses related to the virus, ensuring that you have robust protection in the event of contracting it during your trip or even before.

Furthermore, TIQ provides coverage of up to S$5,000 for non-refundable expenses if you find yourself needing to cancel or postpone your trip within 14 days of your scheduled departure date.

It's important to keep in mind that TIQ’s COVID-19 coverage is only available as an optional add-on for their travel insurance plan, starting at S$23 (for a 7-day trip to Australia). Nevertheless, considering the substantial coverage it affords, the added cost is certainly justified.

See also:
Best Covid-19 Travel Insurance Plans (2023)
Is Travel Insurance With COVID-19 Coverage Still Necessary?

Comparing Australia travel insurance plans

Based on a 5D single-trip to Australia for 1 person. Premiums are before discounts/promotions.

For travellers planning a trip to Australia, choosing the right international travel insurance plan is crucial for ensuring comprehensive coverage and peace of mind. For travellers heading to Australia who seek extensive coverage for medical expenses in the event of severe illness or injury, Singlife’s Travel Lite plan stands out with its superior coverage limits among the options listed. This makes it an excellent choice for those prioritising robust health and accident-related protection.

For those looking for the cheapest travel insurance to Australia options, plans by FWD, MSIG, and Allianz offer attractive premiums without compromising significantly on coverage. Despite its lower cost, the MSIG Standard Plan provides considerable overseas medical expense coverage, making it a valuable choice for budget-conscious travellers who still desire substantial protection. This is especially notable when compared to other plans that offer lower maximum claim benefits.

The best travel insurance plans for Australia

Starr TraveLead Travel Insurance (Comprehensive) – Bronze 

Despite its affordable cost, StarrLead Travel Insurance (Comprehensive) – Bronze provides extensive coverage for trips to Australia. 

• Total Medical Coverage: Receive up to S$200,000 for overseas medical expenses, with emergency evacuation and repatriation provided without limit.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: Benefit from a daily overseas hospital cash allowance of S$200 (up to a maximum of S$5,000), alongside a hospitalisation guarantee of up to S$7,000.
• Outpatient Coverage: Follow-up medical treatments are covered up to S$15,000, including alternative therapies like Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Physiotherapy, and Chiropractic care.
• Trip Curtailment: While trip cancellation is not covered, you can claim up to S$5,000 for trip curtailment expenses.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Enjoy comprehensive trip disruption benefits and personal luggage coverage, including up to S$2,000 for lost travel documents and alternative accommodations (capped at S$400 per day). Personal belongings are covered up to S$3,000, with specific sub-limits of S$1,400 for laptops and S$1,000 for cameras.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Secure up to S$15,000 coverage specifically for COVID-19 related incidents.

FWD Travel Insurance – Premium

FWD Travel Insurance delivers reliable and comprehensive travel protection for travellers to Australia, ensuring peace of mind on your journeys.

• Total Medical Coverage: Receive up to S$200,000 in overseas medical benefits, along with unlimited emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage. Additionally, this plan includes S$200,000 in personal accident benefits, covering accidental death or total and permanent disability—ideal for those without a life policy or standalone personal accident plan.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: Benefit from an overseas hospital cash allowance of S$200 per day, capped at S$5,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Coverage for trip cancellation is provided up to S$7,500.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Secure up to S$3,000 in coverage for personal luggage, with specific sub-limits of S$1,000 for laptops/tablets and S$300 for mobile phones.
• COVID-19 Coverage: This plan doesn’t automatically include COVID-19 coverage; it must be purchased as an additional option.

TIQ Travel Insurance – Entry

TIQ Travel Insurance – Entry provides coverage comparable to similar plans in the market.

• Total Medical Coverage: The plan offers up to S$200,000 for overseas medical expenses and up to S$1 million for emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: Enjoy an overseas hospital cash benefit of S$200 per day, up to S$5,000, along with a domestic hospital allowance in Singapore of S$50 per day, up to S$500.
• Trip Cancellation: Coverage includes up to S$5,000 for trip cancellation and S$3,000 for travel curtailment.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Your personal luggage is covered up to S$2,000, with specific sub-limits of S$1,000 for laptops and S$250 for other items. Coverage for travel documents is provided up to S$150.
• COVID-19 Coverage: COVID-19 coverage is available but must be added as a separate option.

MSIG TravelEasy – Standard

MSIG TravelEasy – Standard is a premium travel insurance option for your trip to Australia, offering comprehensive coverage levels unmatched by many other plans.

• Total Medical Coverage: This plan provides an extensive S$250,000 for overseas medical expenses specifically for your trip to Australia. Additionally, it includes S$25,000 for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore and S$5,000 for emergency dental care. With S$1 million coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation, plus S$150,000 in personal accident benefits, it stands out as one of the most robust travel insurance options available.
• Outpatient Coverage: Includes S$5,000 for emergency dental benefits.
• Trip Cancellation: The plan offers up to S$5,000 for both travel cancellation and curtailment, with an additional S$1,000 compensation for travel disruptions.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Provides up to S$3,000 for lost or damaged luggage, with a S$1,000 sub-limit for laptops and tablets, and a S$500 sub-limit for other personal items. It also covers up to S$2,000 for lost travel documents.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Includes a S$75,000 cover specifically for COVID-19 related incidents, ensuring added protection during the pandemic.

Singlife Travel Insurance — Travel Prestige

Singlife’s travel insurance plan is renowned for its high coverage limits across multiple areas.

• Total Medical Coverage: Enjoy peace of mind with unlimited overseas medical coverage and emergency medical evacuation. The plan also includes S$80,000 for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore and S$500,000 in personal accident benefits, making it a top choice for comprehensive medical protection.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Receive S$200 for every 24 hours of hospitalisation, up to a total of S$50,000.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Compensates S$100 for every 6-hour delay, with a maximum payout of S$2,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Provides up to S$20,000 for trip cancellation and S$3,000 for trip postponements. Additionally, it offers S$5,000 coverage for cancellations for any reason, granting unparalleled flexibility in travel plans.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Covers up to S$8,000 for lost or damaged luggage, including a S$700 sub-limit per article, S$3,000 for loss of money, and S$5,000 for lost travel documents.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Includes up to S$200,000 for medical expenses related to COVID-19, ensuring added security in these uncertain times.

AIG Travel Guard Direct – Supreme

The AIG Travel Guard Direct – Supreme plan offers some of the most comprehensive travel coverage available, ideal for global travellers who leave nothing to chance.

• Total Medical Coverage: Benefit from up to S$2,500,000 in overseas medical coverage, unlimited emergency evacuation, and S$50,000 for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore. Additionally, receive up to S$300,000 for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Receive S$200 for every 24 hours of hospitalisation, up to a total of S$50,000.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Claim S$100 for every 6-hour flight delay, with a maximum payout of S$3,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Secure up to S$15,000 for cancelled trips, plus up to S$2,000 for any modifications made before departure.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Get up to S$10,000 in coverage for lost or damaged luggage, with a S$500 sub-limit per article. Additionally, receive up to S$1,000 for lost laptops and another S$1,000 for lost jewellery.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Includes up to S$250,000 for medical expenses related to COVID-19, enhancing your travel safety in the pandemic era.

Allianz Travel Insurance — Platinum

Experience top-tier protection with Allianz Travel Insurance — Platinum, providing elite coverage for discerning travellers who demand the best in safety and convenience.

• Total Medical Coverage: Secure up to S$1,000,000 for overseas emergency medical expenses and an additional S$2,500 for medical costs incurred in Singapore after your return. This plan also offers up to S$100,000 for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Earn S$100 for every 24 hours of hospitalization, with a total coverage limit of S$2,000.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Receive up to S$1,600 in compensation for flight delays, with a daily cap of S$400.
• Trip Cancellation: Protect your travel investments with up to S$15,000 in coverage for trip cancellations, plus up to S$2,000 for any pre-departure alterations to your plans.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Cover your personal items and documents with up to S$5,000 for lost or damaged luggage, including a S$500 sub-limit per article and a total of S$1,500 for all high-value items combined.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Benefit from up to S$250,000 in coverage for medical expenses resulting from COVID-19.

Seedly Travel Insurance — Travel Secure

Embark on your journey to the Land Down Under with confidence knowing Seedly Travel Insurance — Travel Secure has you covered with comprehensive protection wherever you go.

• Total Medical Coverage: Receive robust protection with up to S$500,000 for overseas medical expenses, and an additional S$400,000 for medical costs incurred in Singapore post-trip. The plan also includes up to S$300,000 reimbursement for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Earn S$200 for every 24 hours of hospitalisation, up to a generous limit of S$20,000.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Claim S$100 for every 6-hour delay, applicable both in Singapore and abroad, with a total coverage cap of S$2,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Get up to S$10,000 coverage for cancelled trips, and the same amount for any trip curtailments, ensuring your peace of mind in the face of unexpected changes.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Secure up to S$10,000 in coverage for lost or damaged luggage, with a S$500 sub-limit per article and up to S$800 for all valuables combined.
• COVID-19 Coverage: COVID-19 related medical expenses are included within the overseas medical coverage limit, providing essential protection during the pandemic.

Comparing Australia travel insurance coverage

Based on a 5D single-trip to Australia for 1 person. Premiums are before discounts/promotions.

Overall, when considering what travel insurance to buy for Australia, consider what aspects of your trip are most important to cover — whether it’s medical expenses, trip cancellations, or specific activities. Match these with the insurance offerings and also check for any additional benefits or discounts that might be available to you.

Important travel insurance coverage for Australia

Medical expenses

Medical expense coverage stands as one of the most vital aspects of travel insurance, given that accidents can occur unexpectedly during your travel to Australia. It's essential to have the confidence that you possess ample coverage.

Whether you find yourself needing to consult a doctor abroad, face hospitalisation, or require emergency medical evacuation, selecting travel insurance with substantial medical expense coverage will offer you peace of mind, knowing that you are adequately protected.

For those planning to engage in adventurous sports or activities during their trip, it's crucial to ensure that your travel insurance policy includes coverage for such pursuits in case of injury.

Certain travel insurance policies encompass activities like skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving, water rafting, and more. It's imperative to carefully review the policy wording to gain a precise understanding of what is covered and what falls outside the coverage scope.

See also: 
Best Travel Insurance Singapore for Adventure Seekers

Loss of belongings

Though Australia’s theft rates are not the highest, it’s still better to have sufficient coverage for loss of belongings. Whether you fall victim to pickpocketing, accidentally misplace your valuables, or experience damage to them, obtaining comprehensive coverage for your lost belongings is of utmost importance, as it can offer you peace of mind.

This becomes especially critical for individuals who carry items like laptops for work or cameras and equipment for professional photography, as many travel insurance plans often extend coverage to these valuable possessions.

On top of that, if your luggage unfortunately gets lost during transit or during your flight, you would at least be able to claim your possessions and receive monetary compensation, albeit the serious inconvenience.

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COVID-19 medical expenses

While much of the world is adapting to living with COVID-19, it remains important to secure coverage for this virus.

Opting for COVID-19 coverage allows you the flexibility to delay or cancel your Australia trip if either you or your travel companion contract COVID-19 before your planned departure. Moreover, it ensures you have the resources to obtain over-the-counter medications or seek medical attention at a clinic if you fall ill with COVID-19 during your trip.

In the unfortunate event of severe illness resulting from COVID-19 or the emergence of medical complications related to the virus, specific travel insurance policies can offer coverage for your hospitalisation and even extend benefits for hospital stays. In critical situations, these policies also provide the option of emergency evacuation back to Singapore for essential treatment.

See also: Is Travel Insurance With COVID-19 Coverage Still Necessary?

Flight delay or cancellation

Nowadays, we often hear about more and more cases of long flight delays or last minute flight cancellations. Regardless of the duration of the delay, the experience of spending those valuable hours at the airport while your plans are disrupted can be incredibly frustrating.

This is precisely why having the opportunity to receive compensation for flight delays or cancellations is incredibly important. It enables you to recover at least a portion of the expenses incurred during travel disruptions. Typically, insurance providers offer payouts at intervals of every 4 to 6 hours, up to a certain limit.

This financial assistance equips you with the means to potentially secure accommodation at a nearby hotel or cover any missed activities resulting from your flight delay, should the need arise.

Car rental excess

Planning on going for the Great Ocean Drive? You’ll definitely need to double-check if your travel insurance covers car rental excess.

It may seem counterintuitive, but rental cars typically come with limited insurance coverage. Car rental companies in Australia are only obligated to provide third-party liability insurance, which primarily covers claims made by individuals injured in a traffic accident involving your rental vehicle.

As a result, you’re responsible for all other types of loss or damage to the rented vehicle during the rental period. This can leave you vulnerable to unexpected expenses if, for instance, your car is rear-ended, vandalized, set on fire, stolen and used recklessly, and so on.

Though you can choose to settle claims with the rental company with your regular car insurance policy (the one for the car you drive in Singapore), doing so can lead to the loss of your No-Claims Discount (NCD) and may result in premium increases at your next policy renewal.

Therefore, when embarking on a road trip, it's important to ensure you have sufficient coverage against loss or damage to your rental car. This involves considering additional benefits such as:

• Collision, loss, or damage waiver (though there may still be excess charges).
• Coverage for windscreen, windows, and tire repairs or replacements
• Benefits for relocation and towing services
• Theft protection

Different car rental companies offer various forms or combinations of these (and other) benefits, so it's advisable to directly inquire with them for personalised advice.

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Key factors to consider when choosing travel insurance for your Australian journey

Travel insurance is crucial for ensuring peace of mind while exploring Australia. Here are key aspects to evaluate when selecting a policy:

Evaluate the Coverage Level

Assess the extent of coverage provided by different plans. Look for comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, which are essential for handling unexpected medical emergencies. Higher coverage limits generally offer more protection, which can be particularly important in regions with higher medical costs.

Ensure Coverage for Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Many AUS travel insurance policies don’t automatically cover pre-existing medical conditions. If you have any known conditions, seek a policy that explicitly covers them. This may involve selecting a more specialised plan or possibly paying a higher premium, but it ensures you won't face hefty out-of-pocket costs for related treatments while abroad.

Analyse and Compare Policy Premiums

Premiums can vary widely based on the coverage offered, the duration of your trip, and additional benefits included. It’s important to compare these costs across different providers. However, don't just opt for the cheapest option—balance the cost with the coverage details to ensure it meets all your needs without exceeding your budget.

Include Specialised Activity Coverage

If your trip involves activities like surfing, diving, or hiking in remote areas, standard policies may not offer adequate protection. Look for plans that include coverage for specialised activities to ensure you're protected during these higher-risk pursuits. This might mean additional premiums but can be invaluable in case of an accident or emergency related to these activities.

Consider Coverage for Trip Interruptions and Belongings

Travel can be unpredictable. Ensure your insurance covers trip cancellations, interruptions, and delays to protect against financial losses from last-minute changes. Also, consider coverage for loss or damage to personal belongings, which can provide compensation for theft, loss, or damage to luggage and high-value items like cameras and laptops.

Travel safety tips for Australia 

Travelling to Australia is an exciting adventure, but like any destination, it comes with its unique set of safety considerations. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t Leave Your Bag or Drink Unattended: Always keep your belongings, especially your drink and bag, within sight and reach. Unattended items can be targets for theft or, in the case of drinks, could be tampered with.
• Don’t Accept Drinks from Strangers: While Australians are generally friendly and welcoming, it’s safer to decline drinks offered by strangers. This helps avoid the risk of consuming substances that could be altered or harmful.
• Park Vehicles in Well-Lit Areas: When parking your vehicle, especially at night, choose well-lit areas close to public entries or attended parking lots. This reduces the risk of theft and damage and increases personal safety when returning to your vehicle.
• Be Aware of Surroundings, Especially in Crowded Areas: Crowded places can be hotspots for pickpockets. Always keep your wallet and phone secure and stay alert in bustling areas like tourist attractions, markets, and public transport hubs.
• Avoid Using Headphones When Walking at Night Alone: Wearing headphones can make you less aware of your surroundings, including oncoming traffic and potentially suspicious activity. It’s best to keep your senses alert when walking alone at night.
• Watch Out for Spiders: Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous spiders. Always check less visible spots like under toilet seats, in foliage, behind cabinets, or in sheds before reaching in.
• Be Aware of Box Jellyfish Warnings at Beaches: Especially prevalent in northern Australian waters during the warmer months (typically November to April), box jellyfish can be extremely dangerous. Heed local warnings and signs about jellyfish presence to avoid painful and potentially fatal stings.

Frequently asked questions about travelling to Australia

Must I buy travel insurance when travelling to Australia from Singapore?

While travel insurance is not a compulsory requirement for travelling to Australia, it’s strongly recommended and encouraged to ensure your protection against unforeseen situations while abroad.

Having travel insurance provides you with the reassurance that you’re financially safeguarded in case of medical expenses, baggage loss, flight delays, trip cancellations, emergency services, and even COVID-19-related medical costs.

Are there any travel COVID-19 requirements or restrictions for travelling to Australia?

Currently, the Australian Government does not have any COVID-19 requirements in place for travellers entering and departing Australia.

However, COVID-19 still poses a health risk in Australia and overseas, which is why they strongly encourage wearing masks and being vaccinated while travelling internationally. It’s also best to practise good hygiene, and try to maintain social distance from others.

They also strongly advise you to buy travel insurance that covers COVID-19 so you are covered if you contract it abroad, or back in Singapore. Do ensure that your travel insurance covers for transit destinations if applicable.

Are there different rules/requirements for the different regions/states in Australia?

Yes, there are different restrictions and requirements put in place for different states in Australia. You can refer here for the list of states and their respective requirements.

What are the visa requirements for Australia?

Unless you’re a citizen of Australia or New Zealand, all travellers will need a valid visa before they travel to Australia.

Some of the available visas include:

• Tourist stream visa
• Transit visa
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa
• Business visitor stream visa

For more information on what kind of visa you need and the application details, click here.

When is the best time to go to Australia?

The best time to travel to Australia is the period of September to November and March to May. The temperature is relatively cool but not too cold, so you’ll be able to do most activities.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Australia?

No, you don’t need an IDP assuming you have a licence in Singapore. As long as your licence is printed in English, you’ll be able to rent a car in Australia.

Do note that Australian cars operate on a left-hand drive (the steering wheel is on the left) meaning that you’ll have to adapt your driving accordingly when you’re there.

Is it worth getting travel insurance for Australia?

Securing travel insurance for a trip to Australia is highly recommended. The country's vast landscapes and variety of outdoor activities—from snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef to hiking in the Outback—pose unique risks that could result in unexpected medical or travel expenses. Travel insurance can cover you for medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellations, and more, making it a wise investment to safeguard against unforeseen costs and ensure peace of mind during your travels.

Can I buy travel insurance after departure from Australia?

While it’s generally advised to purchase travel insurance before beginning your trip, some insurance providers do offer the option to buy travel insurance after you have already departed for Australia. However, it's important to note that there may be restrictions or waiting periods applied to coverage purchased after departure, so immediate coverage for existing or imminent issues may not be available. Always check the policy details thoroughly.

Why is travel insurance so expensive in Australia?

Travel insurance for Australia can be more costly compared to other destinations due to the higher medical costs in the country, as well as the broad range of adventurous activities tourists often partake in, which can increase the risk of injury. Additionally, the remoteness of some popular tourist sites can escalate potential evacuation costs, all of which are factored into the pricing of travel insurance premiums.

Does travel insurance for Australia include COVID?

Many travel insurance plans for Australia now include coverage for COVID-19 related incidents, given the ongoing global impact of the pandemic. This can cover medical treatment if you contract the virus during your trip as well as cancellations or interruptions caused by COVID-19. However, the extent of coverage and the conditions vary by provider, so it’s essential to confirm that your specific policy covers these concerns, especially as policies adapt to changing global health guidelines.

How to get a suitable travel insurance plan?

To find a suitable travel insurance plan for Australia, start by assessing your specific needs based on the activities you plan to engage in and the level of risk you might encounter. Compare different policies to ensure that they cover the key areas of concern, such as medical expenses, evacuation costs, trip cancellations, and luggage protection. It’s also prudent to consider plans that offer flexible coverage for additional activities or unexpected changes in travel advice. Use reputable comparison websites to compare coverage options and premiums, and read customer reviews to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider.

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