With so many insurance providers and policies available in Australia, finding the right coverage can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for health, car, life, or home insurance, comparing multiple options is essential. That’s where iSelect comes in — one of Australia’s most well-known insurance comparison platforms. But the big question is: Is iSelect really the best way to compare insurance in Australia in 2025?
In this full review of iSelect, we’ll explore its features, how it works, the pros and cons, and how it stacks up against other comparison tools.
What is iSelect?
Founded in 2000, iSelect is an Australian comparison platform that helps users compare a wide range of financial and utility products, including:
- Health Insurance
- Car Insurance
- Home & Contents Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Electricity & Gas Plans
- Broadband & NBN
- Home Loans and Credit Cards
iSelect’s goal is to simplify decision-making for consumers by providing side-by-side comparisons of providers, features, and costs.
How Does iSelect Work?
Using iSelect is simple and completely free:
- Choose a product (e.g., car insurance).
- Enter your information, such as age, location, and specific preferences.
- Compare options from a list of partner providers.
- Apply online or request a free phone consultation.
Unlike many competitors, iSelect offers live expert advice by phone, which is especially helpful for more complex products like life insurance or income protection.
Key Features of iSelect
✅ Wide Range of Insurance Types
iSelect covers a broad spectrum of insurance needs. From hospital and extras cover in health insurance to TPD and trauma cover in life insurance, the platform is designed to cater to every stage of life.
✅ Free Expert Advice
If you need help understanding your options, iSelect connects you with trained advisors who offer no-obligation guidance over the phone.
✅ Real-Time Comparison
Quotes are generated in real-time from trusted Australian providers, helping users find the latest offers, discounts, and policy updates.
✅ Mobile & User-Friendly Interface
The 2025 version of iSelect features an improved mobile experience, allowing users to compare and apply from smartphones and tablets easily.
Pros of Using iSelect
🔹 Saves Time
Rather than visiting individual insurer websites, iSelect lets you compare multiple policies in minutes.
🔹 Free to Use
There’s no cost to users. iSelect earns a commission when a customer signs up through their platform.
🔹 Trusted Insurers
iSelect partners only with reputable Australian insurance brands, ensuring that users receive quality policy options.
🔹 Tailored Results
The platform asks for personal details like your lifestyle, income, or family situation to provide more personalized recommendations.
🔹 Support for Complex Products
Products like life insurance, income protection, and home loans often require human assistance. iSelect’s expert advice is a standout feature here.
Cons of Using iSelect
❌ Not All Providers Are Included
iSelect only compares policies from partner insurers. Some well-known or low-cost providers may not appear.
❌ Commission-Based Model
Since iSelect earns money from insurance providers, it may prioritize certain policies that offer higher commissions.
❌ Not Always the Cheapest
The best or cheapest policy on the market might not be shown — particularly if the provider isn’t partnered with iSelect.
❌ Limited Online Filters
For some specific requirements (like pre-existing conditions or niche coverage), users must call for a customized quote.
Insurance Categories Covered by iSelect
Here’s a quick overview of the main insurance categories you can compare on iSelect in 2025:
| Insurance Type | What’s Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Hospital cover, extras, dental, optical, gap payments | Singles, families, seniors |
| Car Insurance | CTP, third-party, comprehensive, excess options | New drivers, budget-conscious users |
| Home & Contents | Property damage, theft, natural disasters, landlord/renter cover | Homeowners and renters |
| Life Insurance | Term life, income protection, trauma, and TPD cover | Families, high-income earners |
| Travel Insurance | Medical cover, trip cancellation, luggage protection | Frequent travellers, students |
iSelect vs Other Comparison Platforms (2025)
Let’s compare iSelect with some of the top competitors:
| Feature | iSelect | Compare The Market | Canstar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Car Insurance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Life Insurance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Limited |
| Utilities (Electricity) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Phone Support | ✅ Available | ✅ Available | ❌ No |
| Market Coverage | 🔶 Moderate | ✅ Wide | ✅ Wide |
| Real-Time Quotes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Conclusion: iSelect stands out for its phone-based expert support and user-friendly comparison tool, but it may fall short in market coverage compared to competitors that show non-partner providers.
Is iSelect the Best Way to Compare Insurance in Australia?
💡 Yes, if you:
- Are a first-time insurance buyer.
- Want quick comparisons with easy-to-understand features.
- Prefer expert guidance from real people.
- Need help with life or health insurance decisions.
🚫 No, if you:
- Want a full-market comparison, including all providers.
- Are only looking for the absolute cheapest deal, regardless of brand.
- Prefer to do all research independently without advisor input.
Tips for Using iSelect Effectively
- Use iSelect as a starting point, not the only source of comparison.
- Ask questions during phone consultations — clarify exclusions and hidden fees.
- Download the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before applying.
- Cross-check quotes with at least one other platform (like Canstar or Finder).
- Compare based on value, not just price — cheaper isn’t always better.
Final Verdict: Worth Using, but Do Your Homework
In 2025, iSelect remains one of the top tools for comparing insurance in Australia. It offers a simple, fast, and user-focused experience with solid support — especially for people who prefer a more guided approach.
However, it’s not a full-market comparison tool. While it saves time and simplifies choices, the smartest buyers will double-check with other providers to ensure they’re truly getting the best deal.
Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Is iSelect really free?
Yes. It’s free for users. iSelect earns a commission from providers when you purchase through their site.
❓ Does iSelect compare all Australian insurers?
No. It only shows providers it partners with, so some popular or low-cost insurers may not appear in your results.
❓ Can I trust iSelect’s recommendations?
Yes, but with caution. iSelect offers helpful information and support, but always compare quotes outside the platform before buying.