HBF Health Limited

HBF Health Limited Australia

HBF Health Limited: Australia’s Leading Not-for-Profit Health Fund Explained for American Consumers

HBF Health Limited, founded in 1941, is Western Australia’s largest private health insurer and one of Australia’s most trusted, known for its not-for-profit structure prioritizing member benefits. While its primary market is Western Australia, HBF has expanded nationally, offering high-quality and flexible health insurance products backed by decades of experience.


History and Not-For-Profit Structure

  • HBF was established as the Metropolitan Hospitals Benefit Fund of Western Australia to provide affordable hospital insurance during a time when healthcare access was limited.
  • The core mission has always been to serve members rather than shareholders. This not-for-profit status means all profits are reinvested into improving services, lowering premiums, and funding community health initiatives rather than generating dividends.
  • Over 80 years, HBF has grown into Australia’s second-largest member-based health fund with over one million members and approximately 8% share of the national health insurance market.
  • In recent years, HBF has expanded via acquisitions such as Brisbane-based CUA Health and Queensland Country Health Fund, broadening its reach beyond Western Australia.
  • HBF Health Insurance actively supports community wellness programs, including the popular annual “Run for a Reason” charity event engaging tens of thousands of participants.

HBF Health Insurance Products

Hospital Cover

Covers treatment costs in public and private hospitals including surgery, accommodation, and some in-hospital services, with options tailored by coverage level and budget.

Extras Cover

Provides benefits for out-of-hospital services such as dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and more. Different levels of cover allow flexible customization.

Combined Hospital and Extras

Integrated plans offering comprehensive coverage for both hospital stays and extras services, giving members a one-stop solution.

Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC)

Specialized cover meeting Australian visa requirements for international students, workers, and visitors. Provides essential hospital and general treatment cover.

Life and Trauma Insurance (underwritten by Zurich Financial Services Australia)

Additional financial protection with life, trauma, and income protection options available to complement health insurance.

Home, Car & Travel Insurance (underwritten by IAG)

Extended insurance services offered through HBF partnerships providing convenience and trusted coverage across multiple areas.


5 Frequently Asked Questions About HBF

1. What does “not-for-profit” mean for HBF members?

It means HBF does not have shareholders; all profits are reinvested to benefit members, which can lower costs and improve services.

2. Can I use my HBF hospital cover anywhere in Australia?

Yes, HBF offers national coverage, though most members are in Western Australia. You can access a broad network of hospitals nationwide.

3. Does HBF Extras cover include preventive health services?

Yes, many extras plans include rebates for preventive services such as health checks, vaccinations, and wellness programs.

4. How do I claim with HBF?

Claims can be submitted online via the HBF website or mobile app, with options for direct billing at some providers.

5. Does HBF offer discounts or fitness incentives?

Yes, HBF runs various health and fitness programs and offers discounts or rebates linked to participation in wellness activities.


5 Customer Reviews of HBF

  1. “I love HBF’s community focus and their flexible extras cover lets me pick exactly what my family needs.” — Olivia M.
  2. “As a student moving to Perth, their OVHC met my visa needs perfectly and was easy to understand.” — Daniel S.
  3. “Great digital tools; submitting claims through the app is fast and convenient.” — Rebecca L.
  4. “HBF’s annual Run for a Reason event is inspiring, supporting good causes while promoting health.” — Mitchell D.
  5. “Hospitals and specialists covered by HBF gave me peace of mind during my surgery with minimal out-of-pocket costs.” — Karen T.

Contact Information for HBF Health Limited

  • Website: www.hbf.com.au
  • Customer Service Phone (Australia): 13 13 42
  • International Calls: +61 8 9267 4900
  • Email: customerservice@hbf.com.au
  • Mailing Address:
    HBF Health Limited
    Level 7, 35-37 Havelock Street
    West Perth WA 6005
    Australia
  • Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android for claims, policy management, and wellness support

Read more:

Health Insurance in Australia – Health Insurance in Australia

Home and Contents Insurance in Australia – Home and Contents Insurance in Australia

Life and Income Protection Insurance in Australia – Life and Income Protection Insurance in Australia

Travel Insurance for Australians – Travel Insurance for Australians

Car Insurance in Australia – Car Insurance in Australia

Insurance Australia Group (IAG) – Insurance Australia Group (IAG)

Medibank Private – Medibank Private

QBE Insurance – QBE Insurance

Suncorp Group – Suncorp Group

TAL Life Limited – TAL Life Limited