Tax time can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. If you're a Queensland Country Health Fund Member, there are a few important things to know about how your private health insurance fits into your tax return. We’re here to make it easier to understand.

 

1. Your Private Health Insurance Statement

Each year, we send your Private Health Insurance Statement directly to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This means your tax return is usually pre-filled with the information you need—no action required.

If you would like a copy for your own records, you can download this via your secure inbox within the Mobile App or Online Member Service Portal. This can be useful if you’re lodging through a tax agent or simply want to check the details for yourself. To find out how to download visit Private Health Insurance Statements | Queensland Country Health Fund

 

2. Australian Government Rebate

The Australian Government provides a private health insurance rebate to help make private health cover more affordable. The rebate amount you’re entitled to depends on your income and age. You can choose to:

  • Receive the rebate throughout the year as a reduction in your premium, or
  • Claim it back in your annual tax return.

If your income has changed significantly during the financial year, it's worth checking which rebate tier you fall into. This can help prevent any unexpected adjustments when you lodge your return.

Current income thresholds and rebate details are available on the Australian Taxation Office.

 

3. Understanding the Medicare Levy and the Medicare Levy Surcharge

Most taxpayers pay the Medicare levy, which helps fund Australia’s public healthcare system. However, if you earn above a certain income threshold and do not have an appropriate level of hospital cover, you may also need to pay the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS)—an additional tax on top of the standard levy.

If you hold eligible hospital cover, you may be exempt from the surcharge. This can reduce your overall tax bill. If you’re not sure whether your cover qualifies, please check your policy details or contact our team for assistance.

For more on MLS thresholds and exemptions, visit the ATO website.

 

4. Why you still pay the Medicare Levy

Even if you have private health insurance, you are still required to pay the Medicare Levy. That’s because private health cover is designed to complement Medicare, not replace it.

Medicare remains the foundation of Australia’s health system and provides access to services such as GP visits, treatment in public hospitals, and subsidised care. Private health insurance gives you more choice—like being able to choose your own doctor, reducing wait times for elective procedures, and access everyday services like dental, optical and physiotherapy that are not covered by Medicare.

If you're unsure about any part of the process or how your policy fits into your tax return, our friendly team is here to help.

Contact our team on 1300 813 415, email info@queenslandcountry.health, or visit your local Retail Centre.

For more detailed tax information, visit the Australian Taxation Office or speak to a registered tax agent for personalised advice.