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Medical Emergencies Lead Australian Travel Insurance Claims in 2024

Over 40% of Claims Linked to Health Incidents Abroad

Medical Emergencies Lead Australian Travel Insurance Claims in 2024?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In 2024, medical incidents emerged as the leading cause of travel insurance claims among Australian travellers, accounting for more than 40% of all claims handled by nib Travel.
This trend underscores the critical importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance to mitigate the financial risks associated with medical emergencies abroad.

Notably, nib Travel reported that the most expensive individual claim paid last year exceeded $3 million. Other high-cost claims, many in the six-figure range, were lodged by travellers to destinations such as the United States and Japan, as well as within Australia. Medical claims made by travellers in Australia alone reached more than $10 million from over 2,200 cases.

Despite fewer claims coming from travellers to the US-674 in total-the country topped the list for total medical expenses. nib Travel attributed this to the high cost of healthcare in the US, alongside currency exchange factors that inflate costs for Australian travellers.

These statistics highlight the unpredictable nature of travel and the potential for significant medical expenses. Travellers are encouraged to thoroughly review their insurance policies to ensure they have adequate coverage for medical emergencies, thereby safeguarding themselves against unforeseen financial burdens.

Published:Friday, 28th Nov 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

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Professional indemnity:
An insurance that provides cover for liability incurred in the course of exercising a profession.