Health insurance
Expeditioner trained as a nurse in station operating theatre
You should carefully consider your situation before suspending private health or accident insurance cover during your time in Antarctica.The AAD suggests that you contact your health insurance organisation and discuss the matter directly with them before making a decision.
Photo: D. McVeigh
You cannot assume that every injury or illness sustained in Antarctica will be covered by compensation on return to Australia.
Eligibility for Medicare is governed by the Health Insurance Act 1973, which restricts cover exclusively to Australian residents.
However, the Act also permits this cover to be extended to certain temporary residents in Australia, and this is the case for visitors holding Temporary Entry Permits (educational) Class 418.Some scientists employed by the AAD fall into this category.
Those people should contact a Medicare office with their passports, and cover can then be arranged.
