Delivering a below industry premium increase
As part of a member-owned organisation, Doctors’ Health Fund is committed to keeping private health insurance sustainable and affordable. That’s why any premium increase is carefully considered, allowing us to fund quality care for our members and support the long-term strength of Australia’s private health system.
In 2026, we once again delivered an average premium increase below the industry average^ and lower than all but one of the big health funds:
We are proud to provide our members with great value for money. Over the past ten years we’ve delivered stable year-on-year price increases ranging from 2.15% to 3.76% per annum, compared to industry average increases which have ranged from 2.70% to 4.84% over this same period*.
Why does my premium go up?
Each year, private health insurance funds review premiums to make sure they’re keeping pace with rising costs, utilisation and the complexity of delivering healthcare services across Australia. As noted by the Minister for Health, the Hon Mark Butler, the cost of providing medical and hospital services in Australia has risen by around 5% last financial year.
Every premium increase is calculated and regulated, with proposed premium increases requiring government approval before they are rolled out.
While we understand the pressure premium increases can place on members, we also recognise the critical role appropriate investment plays in maintaining high standards of care in our private hospitals.
As the fund for doctors, we have a unique stake in maintaining the viability of this sector. Supporting the sustainability of private healthcare in Australia directly serves the interests of our member doctors who depend on the long-term stability of private hospitals to care for both themselves and their patients.
Does my individual claiming impact my premium?
As health insurance is community rated, your individual claims history doesn’t impact the cost of your premium. This is unlike other risk-based insurances, such as car insurance or life insurance. Health insurance premiums are determined across the whole membership and levels of cover, rather than per individual member. The community rated principle ensures fairness and equity to all when it comes to accessing healthcare services, regardless of your health status. We understand that premium changes can raise questions, and we’re here to help. If you’d like to talk through your premium or review your cover, you can contact us and our team will be happy to assist.
This article is accurate as at 1 April 2026.
^Big health funds: BUPA, HBF, HCF, Medibank, & NIB. Information on average increases sourced from publicly available information published online. Click here for the complete list of health fund averages.
* Average annual price changes in private health insurance premiums
Private health insurance products are issued by The Doctors’ Health Fund Pty Limited, (ACN 001 417 527). Cover is subject to the terms and conditions (including waiting periods, limitations and exclusions) of the individual policy, available at www.doctorshealthfund.com.au/our-cover.
