From my experience and conversations with other skilled visa holders in Australia, having a 482 visa without access to Medicare means you need to be extra cautious about your health insurance when planning a pregnancy. Unlike residents who can rely on public healthcare, those on a 482 visa must secure Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) that includes maternity benefits to avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses. Giving birth, especially if a cesarean section (CS) is needed, incurs substantial costs. Without Medicare, the entire hospital stay, anesthesia, pediatrician services, and specialist fees are paid privately. These charges can add up to thousands of Australian dollars, and the expenses vary widely depending on the hospital and your insurance policy. I highly recommend contacting your chosen hospital ahead of time to get an estimate of maternity costs, including cesarean delivery if applicable. Also, check your OVHC policy carefully—some exclude pregnancy-related admissions or have waiting periods of several months after commencement before maternity is covered. Make sure your policy adequately covers obstetric care to avoid surprises. Additionally, be aware that reciprocal health agreements or previous coverages from your home country usually don’t apply to skilled visa holders in Australia. Planning early and knowing your insurance details will give you peace of mind through your pregnancy journey. Overall, while having no Medicare on a 482 visa makes childbirth in Australia more expensive, thorough preparation and the right private health cover can ensure safe and supported maternity care.