Getting pet insurance is one thing. Choosing the right one is another. With dozens of providers in Australia, you want coverage that gives real value — not just fancy claims. Here’s our take on The Best Australian Pet Insurance Plans (with a few bonus tips to spot the ones that actually deliver).
What Makes a Top Pet Insurance Plan?
Before we list, here’s what we judged:
- Generous annual limits and high benefit %
- Minimal sub-limits for consultations, hereditary conditions, dental
- Fast, reliable claims processes
- Clear exclusions & no hidden traps
- Flexibility in excess, switching, and vet choice
We pulled from insurer reviews, policy comparisons (e.g. Choice, Canstar) and public consumer rating sites. CHOICE+2Canstar+2
Top Pet Insurance Plans in Australia
Here are some standout plans (and what makes them great). Use them as benchmarks when comparing quotes:
- PetsOnMe — Accident, Classic & Deluxe Plans
Aussie-owned, transparent, and simple. Covers up to 80% of eligible vet bills, with any licensed vet Australia-wide. PetsOnMe+2PetsOnMe+2- Customisable excess
- Breed-specific options via PetsOnMe Breed Insurance pages PetsOnMe
- Clear plan comparison site: Compare Cover PetsOnMe
- Pet Insurance Australia — Major Medical Cover
Known for deep coverage (including some routine care) and high annual limits, appearing in rankings by Forbes Advisor. Forbes - Bow Wow Meow — Nose-to-Tail Cover
Flexible plan, popular in Australian reviews for offering dental features and fewer sub-limits. Forbes+1 - Knose Pet Insurance
High “no sub-limits” appeal. Strong reviews and competitive benefit percentages. Forbes+2ProductReview.com.au+2 - Medibank Pet Insurance
From a trusted brand. Offers high limits and good extras (depending on tier). Featured in Finder’s 2025 picks. finder.com.au - Budget Direct Pet Insurance
Solid value option. Their owner brand has diverse insurance offerings, which includes pet coverage. Wikipedia
Tips to Pick the Best One for You
- Go beyond “80% cover” — check what sub-limits and caps apply (e.g. on consults, hereditary illnesses).
- Vet freedom matters — plans that force you into networks can be limiting.
- Watch waiting periods — good insurers may waive them if you switch with 12+ months of prior cover (like PetsOnMe). PetsOnMe+1
- Check claims turn-around — fast payout is worth more than a high limit you wait months for.
- Read the PDS & TMD — that’s where all the exclusions and rules are spelled out.
Why Compare with PetsOnMe
Using PetsOnMe as your benchmark helps you see gaps in other plans easily:
- Transparent structure — no hidden fees, clear plan tiers
- Up to 80% reimbursement — a benchmark feature
- Breed-aware approach — some plans tweak cover based on breed risk via the By Breed pages PetsOnMe
- Easy quotes & comparisons via Compare Cover
- Australian-centric product — local laws, local vets, local understanding