The Australian Government rebate helps make private health insurance more affordable by reducing the cost of your health insurance. Your age and income affect the amount you’ll receive from the government, which is why you need to tell us if things change. We won’t ask you how much you earn, just which “rebate tier” describes your situation.
Who is eligible to receive the rebate?
The rebate applies to anyone, under a certain income level, who has hospital, extras or combination cover. You must also have a Medicare card. This means even if you only have extras you could still save money.
How does the rebate work?
If you’re single and earning $151,000 or less, or a couple or family earning $302,000 or less, you may be eligible to receive a rebate on your private health insurance.
Australian Government rebate levels by age
The following table shows the levels as they apply from 1 July 2024.
| Singles: Rebate by Age | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rebate Tier | Earning | less than 65 years | 65-69 years | 70+ years |
| Base Tier | $97,000 or less | 24.608% | 28.710% | 32.812% |
| Tier 1 | $97,001 - $113,000 | 16.405% | 20.507% | 24.608% |
| Tier 2 | $113,001 - $151,000 | 8.202% | 12.303% | 16.405% |
| Tier 3 | $151,001 or more | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Couples & Families: Rebate by Age | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rebate Tier | Earning | less than 65 years | 65-69 years | 70+ years |
| Base Tier | $194,000 or less | 24.608% | 28.710% | 32.812% |
| Tier 1 | $194,001 - $226,000 | 16.405% | 20.507% | 24.608% |
| Tier 2 | $226,001 - $302,000 | 8.202% | 12.303% | 16.405% |
| Tier 3 | $302,001 or more | 0% | 0% | 0% |
Single parents and couples (including de facto couples) are subject to family tiers. If you have dependent children, your income threshold for the rebate increases by $1,500 for each child after the first. To determine whether your child is a dependent for tax purposes or if you want more information about the rebate, please contact your registered tax agent or visit the ATO website.
Who sets the rebate levels and income thresholds?
The Australian Government sets the rebate levels and income thresholds which are reviewed yearly.
· The rebate percentage is adjusted on 1 April each year. Australian Unity will notify members of any changes to premiums due to the rebate percentage changes.
·
The income
thresholds are usually adjusted on 1 July each year. It is your responsibility
to be aware of these changes. If you are affected by rebate income threshold
changes, you will need to update your rebate tier via Online Member Services, or by completing a rebate application form.
Important information for couples and families
If you have more than one dependent child, you can earn more before it affects your rebate. Add $1,500 to your annual earnings for each child, after your first, to find the right tier. To determine whether your child is a dependant for tax purposes, please contact your registered tax agent or visit the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website.
Single parents and couples (including de facto couples) are subject to family tiers.
Age is determined by the age of the oldest person covered.
How do you want to receive your rebate?
If you qualify for the rebate, you can choose from one of the following options:
Update your existing rebate tier
If your income changes, you may need to update your rebate tier.
While there are no penalties for having the wrong tier, if you’re on a tier that’s too low, you may have to pay money back at tax time. Alternatively, if you’re on a tier that’s too high, you may get money back at tax time.
Update your rebate tier / Report a change in income to Australian Unity
Register for the Australian Government rebate for the first time
Don’t have a rebate on your policy yet? Call us on 13 29 39
For more information about the Australian Government rebate, contact your registered tax agent or visit the ATO website.