Medical care for babies on tourist visa

[babybello]

I'm thinking of going to Australia with my husband (who needs to be there another year before getting citizenship) and our 3 month old baby. The baby and I would probably have to get a tourist visa or I might apply for a one year working visa. Does anyone know what would happen with regards to medical care for us? The baby will miss some vaccinations from the UK, could we get those done in Australia under medicare? Would we be covered under Medicare or would we have to get private health care? If so, does anyone have any tips of good providers? Thanks,

Emma

[SSue]

No, neither you or your baby will be covered under medicare. You would certainly need to have good health insurance, and even then this may not cover your babies injections, you would need to find out exactly what they will cover you for. They usually only cover accidental or sudden onset illnesses.

"Medical services are excellent, but can be very expensive, so travellers should ensure that they have adequate insurance. Australia has a reciprocal health agreement with the United Kingdom providing for free hospital emergency medical treatment; proof of UK residence is required."

SSue 8)

[babybello]

Thanks for your reply. Do you know any private providers you can recommend? I have heard that there is a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Australia so that child vaccinations are free but I suppose that is only if you have the relevant visa.

[babybello]

I was also wondering if our baby will be covered by Medicare because my husband has a permanent residency visa. I know I wouldn't be but would the baby?

Emma

[SSue]

No, sorry it's against our rules to recommend private companies, and anyway you would need to shop around for the best deal/price for your situation.

I'm not qualified to answer your first question - your husband could find this out easily enough, by investigating his visa allowances.

Best wishes,

SSue 8)