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Kate_76(Initiate)Initiate
8 July 2024

We are a formally separated family but still share cost of private health insurance premiums. We have basic level hospital cover and high level extras because we use them often such as dental and glases. It's not cheap and a big chunk of our monthly budget. I've just been stung the MLS due to our combined income. Are we better off taking out separate policies, one for me and the kids, and one for my ex? Or keeping our existing policy and increasing our level of hospital cover? It's so expensive!

2,201 views
3 replies
2,201 views
3 replies

Most helpful response

Most helpful reply

ZiadATO(Community Support)Community Support
9 July 2024

Hey @Kate_76


Yes you can take out separate policies. What matters is that everyone has the right level of cover, regardless of which health fund they're with.

All replies

Most helpful reply

ZiadATO(Community Support)Community Support
9 July 2024

Hey @Kate_76


Yes you can take out separate policies. What matters is that everyone has the right level of cover, regardless of which health fund they're with.

Kate_76(Initiate)Initiate
19 July 2024

This doesn't answer my question. I don't want separate policies, what we have is working just fine. What I don't understand is why we've been stung the MLS when we have private hospital cover. We are within the Tier 2 range. Do I need to take out a higher level of hospital cover? I've checked with my health fund and they said our level of cover is fine. I don't understand!!! Could someone at the ATO who SPECIALISES in separated families please answer this for me?

TamaraATO(Community Support)Community Support
22 July 2024

Hello @Kate_76


First, let's look at what is appropriate level of private patient hospital cover.


Couples or families must have an excess of $1,500 or less. For singles it's $750 or less.

The age of children also matters and if they are studying full-time.


Without being able to look at your account we can only advise of where to find info to help you.


If you did get charged MLS then it does suggest that your level of cover is not enough or not everyone is covered?

Is it under both of your names?

Do you both get statements or is it just under one person's name?






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Separated families - is joint or separate private health insurance better for MLS? | ATO Community