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Survey Highlights Alarming Number of Australians Travelling Uninsured

Exploring the Risks and Reasons Behind Uninsured Overseas Travel

Survey Highlights Alarming Number of Australians Travelling Uninsured?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.

Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travelers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance.
This statistic has prompted industry leaders to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before traveling abroad.

The survey, which included 1,001 respondents, found that younger travelers under 30 are particularly prone to forgoing insurance, with 23% admitting to traveling uninsured. Common reasons cited include perceptions of destination safety, beliefs that insurance offers poor value, or confidence in handling emergencies independently.

Damien Arthur, Executive Head of Travel at Allianz Partners Australia, expressed concern over these findings, emphasizing that unforeseen incidents can occur regardless of a destination's perceived safety. He highlighted that medical emergencies, accidents, and travel disruptions can lead to significant financial burdens for those without coverage.

Travelers are encouraged to assess their individual needs and potential risks associated with their destinations. Understanding that travel insurance is designed to mitigate unforeseen expenses, such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations, can help in making informed decisions about coverage.

For those planning international travel, it's advisable to research and compare different insurance policies, ensuring that the chosen plan provides comprehensive coverage tailored to specific travel plans and activities.

Published:Tuesday, 24th Feb 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

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Insurance:
In law and economics, insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against the risk of potential financial loss.