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Mikathecat(I'm new)I'm new
18 Feb 2026

Hi, I currently have my own private health cover and want to switch back to my parent's health cover to save money. Their premiums will increase having me under their cover, I will pay this increase which will be less than having singles cover of my own.


I am 29 years old, single, live by myself (not with parents), and earn approx $130,000 before tax anually.


I currently have private health cover so do not pay the Medicare Levy Surcharge.


Afew years ago, the rules changed, enabling adult dependants (including those who dont live with their parents) to be covered under their parents health fund as long as they were single - up to and including the age of 31.


If I switch to be included on my parents private health policy, which has top gold cover - would I still remain exempt from the Medicare Levy Surcharge?


There is conflicing answers online including in this forum so I would like a clear answer.



218 views
2 replies
218 views
2 replies

All replies

Taxduck(Taxicorn)Taxicorn
18 Feb 2026

"A person who is covered as a dependent aged over 21 on a family hospital policy, who also earns over the MLS income threshold, is liable to pay the MLS. To be exempt from the MLS, the person needs to take a hospital policy for themselves." 

As stated in link below under Adult dependents

Medicare Levy Surcharge

A clear answer. No, you will not remain exempt from the Medicare levy surcharge as a dependent on your parent's policy.

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Will I still receive Medicare Levy Surcharge as Adult Dependant | ATO Community