Is it worth getting private health in Australia?

Is it worth getting private health insurance in Australia depends on your income, health needs and tax situation, but for many people it is worth it for tax, waiting times and choice. Private health insurance has three benefits. First, tax benefits, if you earn over $97,000 single or $194,000 family in 2024-2025 and do not have hospital cover, you pay Medicare Levy Surcharge of 1% to 1.5% extra, so $970 to $1,455 for $97K earner, which often costs more than basic hospital cover at $1,200 per year, so it is worth it to avoid surcharge. Second, waiting times, public hospital waiting list for elective surgery like knee replacement, cataract, hernia can be 6 to 18 months, with private you get within weeks and choice of surgeon and private room. Third, extras cover for dental, optical, physio which Medicare does not cover, saving $500 to $1,500 per year if you use regularly. However, private health costs $200 to $600 per month for family, $100 to $300 for single, plus excess $250 to $750 per admission, and many services still have gaps of $200 to $500. For young healthy people under 31 on low income under $97K with no extras needs, it may not be worth it, better to save. For families planning pregnancy, needing orthodontics, or with chronic conditions, it is worth it because Gold cover includes pregnancy, birth, joint replacements and mental health. Also Lifetime Health Cover loading adds 2% per year after 31 if you do not have hospital cover. Overall, worth it if you earn over $97K to avoid MLS, want faster elective surgery, need extras, or are over 31.