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Australia travel insurance

Find the best places to visit in Australia, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is a must for your trip.

Last updated: 14/7/2025

Sydney opera house in the foreground with Sydney Harbour Bridge beyond and a city skyline further back still. A ferry crosses the water between the opera house and the bridge

Get ready for your Australian adventure

Australia is a land of incredible contrasts. From buzzing cities and world-famous beaches to ancient rainforests and remote desert landscapes, it’s packed with unforgettable experiences.

Visiting the country can be a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience for UK travellers. It’s almost as far from home as it’s possible to be, so you might want to do and see as much as you possibly can when you’re there.

Planning your trip is all part of the fun. And sorting out travel insurance should be high on your list. This guide looks at some must-see places, what to know before you go and how to stay safe and avoid unexpected costs.

In this guide

Top 10 places to go and things to do in Australia

Australia is full of incredible places to explore. Here are ten of the most popular destinations and ideas for what to do while you’re there.

the vast landscape of the Blue Mountains, with its deep canyons and rocky cliffs topped with lush green vegetation

1. Sydney and the Blue Mountains

Sydney is Australia’s biggest and most famous city. It’s known for its iconic sights, sunny beaches and exciting mix of cultures.

Start with the instantly recognisable Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, then hop on a ferry to Manly for coastal views and fresh seafood. Bondi Beach is perfect for relaxing, surfing or walking the scenic clifftop path to Coogee.

Further inland, the Blue Mountains offer cool mountain air, scenic lookouts and dramatic bushwalks. You can visit the Three Sisters rock formation and take a ride on the world’s steepest railway. It’s all just a couple of hours from the city.

Two people wearing snorkelling gear seen underwater looking at their camera

2. The Great Barrier Reef, Cairns and the Daintree

The Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Earth’s most stunning natural wonders. You can snorkel or dive among its colourful corals, fish and turtles, take a reef cruise or see it from above on a scenic flight.

Cairns is the main base for reef adventures but also a great spot for exploring waterfalls, rainforests and Aboriginal culture. A little further north, the Daintree is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. Take guided tours through jungle paths, river cruises to spot crocodiles or join wildlife experiences you won’t forget.

the ocean from the top of a green hill. The water is light blue, with a patch of pale white sand reaching into it from a land mass in the distance

3. The Whitsundays

These tropical islands sit in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and are popular for sailing, swimming and relaxing. The waters are calm and clear, and the beaches are picture-perfect, especially Whitehaven Beach, with its soft white sand and turquoise sea.

There are lots of ways to explore, from luxury yachts to snorkelling tours. You might even spot turtles, dolphins or manta rays. Airlie Beach is the main gateway and a good base for backpackers and families alike.

The towering, orangey-brown rocky bulk of Uluru stands high above a bright orange landscape sparsely populated with dried shrubs and a few trees

4. The Red Centre: Uluru and Alice Springs

The heart of the Australian outback, the Red Centre is full of ancient landscapes and Aboriginal heritage. Uluru (Ayers Rock) is the most famous site. This massive sandstone rock changes colour throughout the day. Nearby, you’ll also find Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a group of rock domes you can explore on foot.

Alice Springs is the main town. It offers a base for guided tours, camel rides and learning about the land’s traditional owners and their stories. It’s a major centre for Indigenous art and home to one of the largest populations of Aboriginal Australians.

Put protection for your trip in place today

Travel insurance

A surfer carries her board along the beach were the water laps the sand. In the background, three other surfers ride frothy waves

5. Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers

Byron Bay, in the state of New South Wales, is a laid-back town that blends surf culture with creativity and eco-living. It’s known for its beaches, lighthouses, yoga retreats and stunning sunsets. You can surf in the morning, enjoy healthy food and live music in the afternoon and watch dolphins play in the sea at dusk.

The surrounding area, called the Northern Rivers, is just as lovely. Think rainforest walks, crystal clear creeks and artsy villages like Bangalow and Nimbin. It’s a popular spot for road trips and easy to reach from Brisbane in Queensland.

Shoppers walk through a shopping arcade. Above them is a pitched glass ceiling. Below their feet, a tiled floor is patterned with black and white diamonds. A tall Christmas tree reaches stands on a plinth in the background

6. Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island

Melbourne, the capital of Victoria and second-largest city in Australia, is full of culture and creativity. Immerse yourself in its art galleries, street art, music festivals and buzzing café scene. It’s also known for its sports, from cricket and Aussie rules football to tennis and Formula 1.

Nearby, the Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s best road trips. It hugs the southern coast, with dramatic cliffs, surf beaches and stops like the Twelve Apostles rock stacks and Great Otway National Park’s temperate rainforest. En route, stop off to see Koalas in the trees at Kennett Ricer or kangaroos on the golf course at Anglesey.

Phillip Island, a couple of hours from Melbourne, is home to the famous Penguin Parade, where penguins scurry up the beach as the sun sets.

An adult and young kangaroo on the white sands of a tropical looking beach, turquoise waters and an island or peninsula beyond. A child walks up the beach with another figure further behind

7. Perth and Western Australia

Perth is a sunny and easy-going city on the west coast. It’s a popular settle spot for UK expats and offers a mix of beaches, city life and outdoor fun. Swim at Cottesloe Beach, visit Fremantle for markets and craft beer, or take a ferry to Rottnest Island to meet the famous quokkas.

Western Australia is vast and often quieter than the east coast. You can visit vineyards in Margaret River, see wildflowers in spring or snorkel with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef.

A person sitting on a beach looking at a city through the spray of the ocean waves. Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

8. The Gold Coast

Just south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is known for its high-rise skyline, golden beaches and family-friendly attractions. Surfers Paradise is the main hub with nightlife, shopping and, of course, surfing. There’s also the excitement of various large theme parks. And, if you want a break from the hustle, bustle and beaches, the hinterland is full of waterfalls, rainforest trails and scenic drives.

A small, covered boat navigates still, mirror-like waters in the Kakadu National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory. Hazy green riverbanks and trees are seen in the distance. The water reflects the banks and trees of nearby islands.

9. Darwin and the Top End

Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory. It’s also a starting point for exploring Australia’s tropical north. It’s small but packed with character, markets and sunsets over the sea.

Just a short drive away, Litchfield National Park is full of waterfalls and rock pools. The larger Kakadu National Park is home to crocodiles, Aboriginal rock art and wetlands teeming with birds and wildlife.

A hiker enjoying the natural beauty of Mount Cradle in the background and Dove Lake, an expanse of water marked with choppy waves, in Tasmania

10. Tasmania

Tasmania or “Tassie” is an island state known for wild landscapes and fresh produce. The capital, Hobart, mixes old buildings with a buzzing arts scene. You can try local oysters, cheeses and whisky. Or visit MONA, one of Australia’s most unusual art museums.

Out in the wilderness, you’ll find Cradle Mountain, the Bay of Fires and Bruny Island. It’s ideal for hiking, road trips and spotting wildlife like wallabies, wombats and even Tasmanian devils.

Why it’s important to have travel insurance for Australia

Travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement for Australia, but it’s still very important.

The UK and Australia have a reciprocal healthcare agreement that covers basic subsidised healthcare and emergency treatment in public hospitals in Australia. But this doesn’t include things like ambulance trips, private care, follow-up treatment or flying you home.

Even minor incidents can cost a lot, especially in remote areas. What’s more, other non-medical incidents can disrupt your travel plans, cause worry or cost you money, too. Having the right travel insurance helps cover these costs and gives you peace of mind throughout your trip.

Put protection for your trip in place today

Travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover for Australia trips?

Post Office Travel Insurance can help if something unexpected happens while you’re away. Depending on the type and level of cover you choose, this can include the following cover, up to the limits set out in the policy:

  • Emergency medical treatment
  • Getting you home (repatriation)
  • Trip cancellation or curtailment (cutting it short)
  • Lost, stolen or damaged luggage
  • Missed or delayed flights (with our standard and premier cover)
  • Personal accident and legal costs

Choose from economy, standard or premier cover to match your plans.

What doesn’t travel insurance for Australia cover?

Travel insurance helps with a lot, but it won’t cover everything. You may not be covered if:

  • You don’t tell us about a pre-existing medical condition
  • You do risky sports or activities without the right cover
  • You break local laws or ignore official advice
  • You leave your things unattended and they get stolen
  • You’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs when something happens you later try to claim for

Always check your policy wording so you know exactly what’s included.

What extra cover can you add?

You can also pay to add optional cover if needed, including:

With these add-ons you can tailor your policy to your needs and itinerary.

Travel insurance for the length of your stay

Make sure your travel insurance matches how long you’re staying.

  • Many people go backpacking in Australia for 6 months to 2 years, often on working visas
  • But be aware: travel insurance usually doesn’t cover work-related accidents
  • Longer stays make sense because Australia is huge and takes time to explore
  • Shorter trips, such as 3-week tours, are popular too

Always choose a policy that fits both the length of your trip and the activities you plan to do.

Medical care and vaccinations

Healthcare in Australia

Australia has excellent medical care. It’s similar in standard and setup to that of the UK.

Despite the reciprocal healthcare arrangement between the two countries, some treatment and services can be expensive without insurance. Ambulance services aren’t free in most states and may cost hundreds of dollars. Travel insurance helps cover these charges and more.

In an emergency, call 000 and ask for an ambulance. Always contact your insurer straight away and take your passport to any medical appointment.

Since Australia is so big, help can take a while to arrive in remote areas. Before heading off the beaten path, check what medical help is nearby and take steps to avoid injury or illness.

Vaccinations for Australia

UK citizens don’t need any special jabs to visit Australia. But it’s a good idea to check you’re up to date with your regular vaccinations like:

  • Tetanus
  • Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
  • Flu (especially in their winter months, from June to August)

There may be exceptions and specific requirements if you’re travelling to Australia from another country.

More about recommended vaccinations for Australia

Visas and entry requirements

UK passport holders need a visa to visit Australia. This could be either a free eVisitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), which is also free though a service fee may apply.

Apply online before you travel. Processing is usually quick but give it at least 72 hours. If you’re not eligible, you may need to apply for a different visa.

For other visa types, check the Department of Home Affairs for full details.

Staying safe while travelling

Australia is generally very safe, but here are some tips to help you avoid trouble:

  • Stay sun safe: The sun is strong, even on cloudy days. Use sunscreen and wear a hat
  • Be smart about theft: Crime levels are low, but theft does happen. Take the usual precautions with your things as you would in the UK, particularly in cities or hostels
  • Get local advice: Australia is huge. Ask locals about dangers in the area before you head out
  • Stay safe in remote places: Carry water, a first aid kit and sun shelter when travelling in the outback or national parks
  • Watch for bushfires: These can happen in summer. Follow local advice
  • Respect local wildlife: Don’t feed animals and avoid touching anything unfamiliar
  • Watch out for snakes and spiders: Australia has some dangerous creatures, so be careful where you walk or reach

A large male saltwater crocodile cooling off on a muddy riverbank in the Daintree Rainforest, north Queensland

Safety in and around water

Australia is known for its unique and sometimes challenging waters. But, with the right guidance, you can enjoy them safely. By following local advice and paying attention to signs, you can make the most of its beautiful beaches, rivers and coastlines.

  • Swim between the flags: Lifeguards mark safe swimming zones at beaches
  • Be sea smart: Rip currents, sharks, jellyfish and even deadly octopuses can be found in the water. Read beach signs and know what to do in an emergency.
  • Be croc-wise: In the north, saltwater crocodiles live in rivers and coastal areas. Obey warning signs and don’t swim where it’s not safe
  • Be careful in rivers and rock pools: Water levels and currents change with the seasons. Always check the depth before you jump in and make sure it’s safe to swim

Visit BeachSafe for helpful guides on water safety

A red and white train travelling down train tracks with the words “The Ghan” on the front of the engine

Getting around

Public transport is good in most cities. You can use buses, trams and trains. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are also common in Australia. For long distances, flying is often the quickest option as the country, and continent, is vast. Domestic flights connect all major cities.

Long distance trains are also an option for some journeys but can be very expensive and aren't necessarily the fastest option. If you have the luxury of time and budget, the famous Indian Pacific Railway runs east to west, from Sydney on the Pacific Ocean to Perth on the Indian Ocean, hence its name. The 2,704-mile journey takes four days and three nights. The Ghan, meanwhile, connects Adelaide in the very south to Darwin in the very north. Its 1,851-mile route takes three to four days to complete.

Driving in Australia

Driving long distances can be an amazing way to see Australia, but it can also be hazardous. Make sure you’ve planned your route thoroughly, including when to take breaks and where to stop.

Here are some important rules and tips to keep in mind.

  • You must carry your UK photocard licence and your passport when driving
  • If you only have a UK paper licence, you’ll also need a 1949 International Driving Permit (IDP)
  • Drive on the left-hand side
  • Speed limits are usually 50 km/h in towns and up to 110 km/h on highways. They may vary between states and territories
  • Watch out for wild animals on country roads, especially at dawn and dusk

If you’re heading into remote areas, remember that some roads need a four-wheel drive vehicle and extra fuel. Check before you go and always take two spare tyres and a repair kit. Don’t drive on unsealed roads if your insurance doesn’t cover it.

Other key driving points to remember:

  • The drink-drive limit is 0.05% BAC, but it’s safest to not drink at all
  • Avoid driving in extreme heat and never drive when tired
  • Get local advice on road risks you might not find online
  • Leave your route details with someone who can call for help if needed (like your hotel)

Key takeaways

  • Australia has amazing places to see, like the Great Barrier Reef, Great Ocean Road, Sydney and Uluru
  • It’s a good idea to get travel insurance. It can help if you get sick, lose your things or your trip gets cancelled
  • You can pay extra for additional cover to suit your needs and what you’ll be doing
  • Make sure you get your visa before you go and check what you need to enter the country
  • Stay safe by following the rules and listening to local advice

Make sure you’re covered for your Aussie adventure

Travel insurance

Common questions about Australia travel

  • Most trips to Australia go smoothly. But sometimes, things can go wrong and can cost a lot of money. That’s why it’s smart to get travel insurance before you go.

    Travel insurance helps you if you get sick, hurt or even bitten or stung by one of Australia’s notorious animals. It also helps if your trip gets cancelled or delayed or if your passport, suitcase or other belongings get lost, stolen or broken.

  • Your travel insurance should help if:

    • You need to be flown home if you get ill or injured
    • Your trip gets cancelled
    • Your belongings get lost, stolen or damaged
    • You accidentally hurt someone or break something 

    You can also add extra protection if:

  • Australia offers a huge range of activities but you need to check your policy to see what’s covered. You might need to buy extra or specialist cover for certain activities. For some, it might not be possible to get cover at all. Always bring your policy document so you can check details on the spot. And make sure any activity is run by a licensed operator. 

  • If you’re going to Australia on a working visa, be careful. Many travel insurance policies don’t cover jobs that involve physical work, like building or farming. Make sure you understand what kind of work you’ll be doing and check if your insurance will still protect you.

  • Read more

  • Yes, depending on the beach, but always swim between the red and yellow flags. These areas are watched by lifeguards. Be aware of jellyfish and strong currents too. The waters in some areas are home to saltwater crocodiles, sharks, sea snakes and other potentially dangerous animals so always heed local warnings.

  • If you have a full UK photocard driving licence, you usually don’t need an International Driving Permit (IDP). to drive in Australia. But don’t forget your passport.

    If you only have a paper licence, you’ll need a special permit called a 1941 IDP.

  • If your passport goes missing:

    • Tell the local police
    • Contact the nearest British embassy or consulate. They’ll help you get a new passport or an emergency travel document

    Read our guide on lost or stolen passports

Related travel products

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  • Passport Check & Send

    Get your passport application right the first time. We can even complete and submit it for you digitally

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If you’re thinking of heading abroad without insurance, think again. This guide explains why doing so can be risky, busts common myths about the need for insurance and ...

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Do I need travel vaccinations?

There’s no better feeling than planning an amazing trip to an exotic destination. Make staying safe with travel vaccinations top of your to-do list.

 Dog running with owner through sea waves and spray along a sandy beach on a sunny day

How to travel with your dog

Taking your best friend on holiday with you is everyone's ideal situation, but travelling with a dog can be a complicated process. Make sure you know how.

 Cappadocia with hot air balloons flying around the sky

Travel insurance for Turkey

A trip to Turkey offers toasty beaches and tourist treats aplenty. No wonder it’s so popular with holidaymakers from the UK and elsewhere.

Where is hot in December, January and February?

Looking for holiday destinations that promise warmer days in the UK’s colder winter months? We can help with that.

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What can I take on a plane?

Ready to jet off on a much-needed break but confused about what you can take with you on the flight?

 group of people having a good time

Teen travel: holiday ideas for teenagers and tips for parents

Travel can help teenagers grow and discover new places. This guide shares the best trips for teens, advice for those travelling independently for the first time, plus ...

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Where is hot in March, April and May?

Spring is a great time to leave the cooler UK and go somewhere sunny. And we can help with that.

 a happy couple having drinks at a beachside lounge

Where is hot in September, October and November?

Looking for holiday destinations that promise warmer days as UK temperatures start to fall? We can help with that.

 a bright sunrise over the cliffs of the Grand Canyon

USA travel insurance

Discover top places to visit, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is essential for an unforgettable USA adventure