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Survey Highlights Alarming Number of Australians Travelling Uninsured

Understanding the Risks of Overseas Travel Without Insurance

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 travellers 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 travelling abroad.

The survey, which included 1,001 participants, revealed that younger travellers are particularly at risk, with 23% of those under 30 admitting to travelling uninsured. Among those who chose not to purchase insurance, 31% believed their destination was safe enough to forgo coverage, 27% considered insurance to be poor value, and 22% felt confident in handling emergencies themselves.

Damien Arthur, Executive Head of Travel at Allianz Partners Australia, expressed concern over these findings, emphasizing that unforeseen events 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 uninsured travellers.

To mitigate these risks, travellers are encouraged to assess their individual needs and select insurance policies that offer comprehensive coverage tailored to their specific circumstances. This proactive approach ensures protection against potential financial hardships resulting from unexpected incidents during travel.

For more information on choosing the right travel insurance, consumers can visit the ICA's website or consult with reputable insurance providers to explore suitable options.

Published:Wednesday, 4th Mar 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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