Bupa announces approved 2026 average premium change

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Kate Williams said the new average premium change reflected rising healthcare costs, increased demand for hospital and medical services, and the continued investment needed to maintain high-quality, accessible care for customers.

“We want our customers to know we’ve worked hard to keep this year’s average premium adjustment lower than last year’s, and balance premium increases responsibly to help support our customers when it matters most,” Ms Williams said.

“Our new premium rate means we can continue offering our customers health insurance products that meet their individual and family needs, provide value for money, with low out-of-pocket costs, and some no-gap alternatives, while helping to balancing affordability and sustainability across our sector.

“We know it’s important that we carefully manage our costs to ensure we can continue to make care more accessible, personalised and affordable for our customers. These are practical changes that improve value for our customers today, while also building a stronger and more sustainable system for the future.”

Across 2025, more than 277,000 customers had a no gap experience during their hospital admissions. Bupa customers also saved more than $10 million using our 24/7 virtual doctor service on our digital health platform Blua, which is continuing to expand to provide greater digital health programs and preventative health solutions.

Bupa paid out $6.65 billion in hospital and extras benefits to our Australian customers in 2025 – up from $6.28 billion the previous year. This is one of the highest among the major insurers.

Unlike other types of insurance, health insurance is community-rated, meaning premiums do not change based on individual factors like age, health, fitness or how much someone uses their health cover.

Ms Williams said Bupa proudly continued to have one of the largest hospital networks through our hospital partnerships in Australia and supports its partners by investing in modern health care including new in-hospital treatments, out of hospital care and digital care.

“We have prioritised support for private hospitals and worked alongside our hospital partners to ensure we’re working constructively to address their challenges for our shared patients and customers,” she said.

Bupa will communicate directly with customers about their individual premium adjustments, which can vary depending on the type of cover and what state they live in.

Ms Willams said: “This is also a good time to review your current policy to ensure it meets your current health and wellbeing needs and you’re getting the most value from your health insurance.”

Support options are also available for customers suffering from financial hardship to ensure our customers can continue to access the healthcare services they need.