When it comes to comparing insurance options in Australia, iSelect has emerged as a trusted name. As a leading online comparison service, iSelect claims to save users both time and money by offering a quick way to compare health, life, car, home, and travel insurance—all in one place.
But is iSelect truly Australia’s best insurance comparison service, or is it just another middleman taking a cut? In this in-depth iSelect review, we’ll look at how the platform works, its pros and cons, and whether it’s worth using in 2025.
What is iSelect?
iSelect is an Australian-based comparison website that helps consumers compare a wide range of financial products, including:
- Health Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Car Insurance
- Home & Contents Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Utilities (electricity, internet)
- Loans & Credit Cards
The platform was launched in 2000 and has since served millions of Australians. It partners with some of the country’s leading insurers and service providers to make it easier for users to compare policies, prices, and coverage features in just minutes.
How Does iSelect Work?
iSelect functions as a comparison aggregator. When a user visits the website and enters a few personal details (like age, location, and coverage needs), iSelect pulls together a list of insurance providers that meet those criteria.
You can compare key aspects such as:
- Monthly or yearly premiums
- Coverage limits
- Inclusions and exclusions
- Additional features or discounts
You can then either sign up online or speak with an iSelect representative for more tailored advice.
iSelect’s Insurance Categories
1. Health Insurance
iSelect is especially popular for health insurance comparisons. It allows users to compare hospital and extras cover from a wide range of Australian health funds. You can also filter based on your needs, such as dental, optical, or physio services.
2. Life Insurance
For those looking to secure their family’s future, iSelect helps compare term life, income protection, and TPD (total and permanent disability) policies. The process is simple, and you can request a call from an advisor if needed.
3. Car Insurance
From comprehensive to third-party car insurance, iSelect offers comparisons on multiple plans, factoring in excess amounts, roadside assistance, and repair options.
4. Home & Contents Insurance
Whether you own or rent, you can compare policies that protect your building and belongings. Some policies even include flood and fire coverage.
5. Travel Insurance
For both domestic and international travel, iSelect provides comparisons for single trip, multi-trip, and annual travel insurance policies.
Pros of Using iSelect
✅ Time-Saving: Instead of visiting multiple insurer websites, you get everything in one place. Most comparisons take under 5 minutes.
✅ Free to Use: iSelect doesn’t charge users. It earns money via commissions from insurers when someone signs up through them.
✅ Range of Providers: iSelect partners with a wide range of reputable insurers in Australia.
✅ Expert Advice: You can speak with an iSelect consultant by phone for more complex insurance needs.
✅ Transparent Comparisons: Policies are displayed with key features, pricing, and benefits clearly outlined.
Cons of Using iSelect
❌ Not All Insurers Are Listed: iSelect only shows providers it has partnerships with. Some major insurers might be missing.
❌ Limited Customization Online: More complex insurance needs may require a phone consultation.
❌ Commercial Bias: Because iSelect earns commissions, it may highlight certain policies or providers more than others.
Is iSelect Biased?
While iSelect claims to offer unbiased comparisons, it’s important to note that the platform only displays policies from insurers that pay to be listed. That doesn’t necessarily mean the results are misleading—but it does mean you might miss out on better deals from non-partnered insurers.
Always consider doing additional research or getting quotes directly from other providers to ensure you’re getting the best value.
iSelect vs Other Insurance Comparison Sites
| Feature | iSelect | Compare The Market | Canstar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Car Insurance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Life Insurance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Limited |
| Expert Consultation | ✅ Phone Support | ✅ Phone Support | ❌ No |
| Number of Partners | Wide Range (but not all) | Similar range | Limited in some areas |
iSelect stands out for its phone support and strong health insurance comparison tools, making it ideal for users who want a bit more guidance.
Who Should Use iSelect?
You should consider using iSelect if:
- You want a quick, free way to compare insurance policies.
- You’re new to insurance and need help understanding your options.
- You’re comparing health or life insurance and want guidance from experts.
- You don’t have time to visit 5–10 insurer websites individually.
Tips for Getting the Best Value on iSelect
- Be Honest with Details: Always provide accurate information to get the most relevant quotes.
- Compare Beyond Price: Look at policy features, inclusions, and claim processes, not just premiums.
- Call for Expert Help: For complex needs, a quick phone chat can help clarify doubts and customize your policy.
- Double Check Providers: Visit insurers’ websites directly to verify you’re getting the best available deal.
Final Verdict: Is iSelect Worth It?
Yes — iSelect is worth using if you want a fast and easy way to compare a wide range of insurance products in Australia. It’s especially helpful for health, car, and life insurance. The platform is user-friendly, free, and backed by knowledgeable support staff.
However, for those seeking the absolute cheapest deal, it’s worth cross-checking with a few non-partner insurers as well. iSelect doesn’t cover 100% of the market.
In short, use iSelect as a starting point, not the only tool in your insurance search.