Some more things to know
Who can get cover?
We cover new puppies and kittens between 6 and 26 weeks on our 6 week FreeCover product. For pets 8 weeks and older, we have our PetCare or AcciPet plans. For PetCare you need to get this before your pet turns 7.
Cover for inherited conditions
Inherited conditions are genetic problems passed down through your pet’s bloodline. They can be expensive to treat, so you can rest easy knowing that Southern Cross provides cover for inherited conditions.
Stand down period
If your application is approved, cover for injury begins from the start date of your policy. The following stand down periods apply from your policy start date: 21 days for illness; 90 days for cruciate ligament(s) and patella luxation(s); and 90 days for dental care extra. Please note the stand down period applies to the date of treatment, not the date the claim is submitted.
Ways to reduce the cost of cover
Co-payment. A co-payment is a percentage of vet charges that you agree to pay after the deduction of your annual excess. The level of co-payment that you choose will impact the amount you get reimbursed per claim, but also how much your premium will be. You have the option of 10%, 20% or 30% co-payment.
Direct debit. Save 2.5% if you pay by direct debit for your whole policy period. Find out more
Additional pet discount. Save 5% on each additional pet policy when you tell us that you have an additional pet insured with us. Find out more
Health Society member discount. Save 2.5% when you tell us you’re a Southern Cross Health Society member. Find out more
Excess. Our annual excess is another way to reduce the cost of cover. This is the amount that we will deduct (in total) when you claim for qualifying treatment before we reimburse you under your policy for each policy period. Your annual excess will apply again each policy year. You have the option of $100, $250 or $500 for your annual excess.
Cooling off period
If you’re not completely satisfied with the terms and conditions of your policy, you can cancel and receive a full refund by notifying us within 14 days of your policy start date (assuming you haven't made a claim under the policy during this time).