How We Rate Pet Insurance
Last updated: June 11, 2026
Transparency is the foundation of trust. This page explains exactly how we evaluate, score, and rank pet insurance providers. No black boxes. No sponsored rankings.
Our 5-Factor Scoring System
Every provider is scored on five weighted factors. The total score determines their ranking in our comparison tables and recommendation badges.
Data Sources
- Product Disclosure Statements (PDS) — Official legal documents from each insurer. We read every PDS in full before publishing any review. Example: RSPCA PDS
- Insurer Websites & Quote Tools — Real-time premium data collected June 2026 for a medium-sized dog, comprehensive cover, $0 excess, NSW postcode unless stated otherwise.
- Canstar Pet Insurance Ratings — Independent star ratings and awards. canstar.com.au/pet-insurance
- Customer Reviews — Aggregated from ProductReview.com.au and Google Reviews. We look for patterns, not individual anecdotes.
- AFCA Complaints Register — Australian Financial Complaints Authority data on insurer disputes. afca.org.au
- Insurer Financial Strength — APRA-regulated general insurers only. All providers listed are underwritten by APRA-authorised entities.
Our Sample Policy
Unless stated otherwise, all prices in our comparison tables are based on:
- Medium-sized dog (e.g., Labrador, ~25kg)
- Age: 3 years old
- Comprehensive accident & illness cover
- $0 excess
- NSW postcode (Ausgrid network where applicable)
- Prices collected June 2026, updated quarterly
Coverage: 10 Providers, 78+ Policies
We track the following providers across their product ranges:
We review accident-only, comprehensive, and routine care add-on policies for each provider. Total policy count varies as products change.
Editorial Independence
PetInsuranceGuide is independently owned and operated. No insurer can pay to be ranked higher, have negative information removed, or influence our scoring methodology.
We may earn commissions when you purchase a policy through our links. Commissions do not affect our rankings, scores, or recommendations. Every provider is evaluated on the same 5-factor system regardless of commercial relationships.
Update Frequency
Premium data is updated quarterly. PDS reviews are updated within 30 days of a new PDS release. Editorial content is reviewed every 6 months minimum. Each page shows its last updated date.
Important
PetInsuranceGuide is not an authorised insurer or financial services licensee. All information is general in nature under ASIC's general advice provisions. It does not constitute financial advice. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before purchasing any insurance product.