Let's start at the beginning
The HIF story began back in 1954, when our organisation sprang into life as the Western Australian Government Railways Employees Hospital and Medical Benefits Fund Inc (trips off the tongue, doesn’t it?).
One name change and 24 years later, we became Health Insurance Fund of WA, an incorporated association under the Associations Incorporations Act 1895 (WA). Then, in June 2010, we changed our name again to Health Insurance Fund of Australia. We did this to reflect our increasingly nationwide membership base.
As a not-for-profit health fund, we've always been a member-focused organisation, providing great value health and travel options. Our philosophy is to give members the freedom to choose when it comes to their healthcare providers while delivering affordable health insurance options tailored to their needs.
A not-for-profit, here-for-you health fund
By preserving our status as a registered open-access, not-for-profit Member-focused private health insurer, we qualify for exemption from income tax assessment under the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (Cth) (although we are subject to other forms of taxation).
Unlike many Australian health insurers, we do not have shareholders. Moreover, cash dividends are not paid directly to our fund Members. Instead, we return any surpluses to our members in the form of lower premiums, increased rebates and new benefits and services. This is our way of rewarding our loyal members. This approach reflects our commitment to being one of the most member-focused not-for-profit health funds in Australia, offering affordable insurance health solutions that truly put people first.
It's about our members, not profits
Our priority is to help our members and their dependants lead healthy and happy lives. Simple as that. Unlike many Australian health insurers, we focus on people, not profits.
We achieve this by offering a range of affordable health insurance options, including hospital, medical and extras services. We also offer great value travel insurance!
Want to know more about us?
We’re proud to stand out from other Australian health insurers as part of a growing network of not-for-profit health funds. Our focus is on delivering real value through affordable insurance health options designed with our members in mind.
Explore our site to learn more about the Health Insurance Fund of Australia, from our corporate structure to our careers centre.
You can also read all the latest news from HIF, along with our Healthy Lifestyle Blog featuring great articles on diet, nutrition, fitness, exercise, dental healthcare, pet health and general wellbeing.