Sleep apnoea is a common medical condition in Australia, affecting breathing during sleep and often linked to other health issues such as high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease. Because of these risks, people with sleep apnoea sometimes face challenges when applying for life insurance.

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At Covermate Life, we’re a specialist life insurance broker who helps Australians with pre-existing conditions, including sleep apnoea, access the right cover. We provide general advice only and compare policies from multiple insurers to find the best options for your situation.

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Why Sleep Apnoea Matters for Life Insurance

Insurers assess sleep apnoea carefully because it can increase risks of:

• Cardiovascular conditions (e.g. heart attack, stroke, hypertension)

• Daytime fatigue, which can affect work and driving safety

• Related lifestyle conditions such as obesity or diabetes

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How severe your sleep apnoea is, and whether it is being treated, will often determine how insurers view your application.

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What Insurers Consider

When applying for life insurance with sleep apnoea, insurers may ask:

• Type of sleep apnoea – obstructive, central, or mixed

• Severity – mild, moderate, or severe (based on sleep studies)

• Treatment – use of CPAP machine, lifestyle changes, or surgery

• Other health conditions – such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or diabetes

• BMI (Body Mass Index) – weight is a key factor in underwriting decisions

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Life Insurance Options with Sleep Apnoea

The good news is that many people with sleep apnoea can still access life insurance. Outcomes depend on individual circumstances, but options include:

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• Life Cover – pays a lump sum to your family if you pass away.

• TPD (Total & Permanent Disability) Cover – provides support if you cannot work due to illness or injury.

• Trauma Cover – pays out if you suffer a serious medical condition.

• Income Protection – replaces part of your salary if sleep apnoea or a related condition prevents you from working.

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Premiums may be standard if your condition is mild and well-managed, but more severe or untreated cases may face loadings (higher premiums) or exclusions.

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Tips for Applying with Sleep Apnoea

• Have your medical records ready – including sleep study results.

• Show evidence of treatment – using a CPAP machine or following medical advice can strengthen your application.

• Be honest and upfront – non-disclosure can affect claims.

• Work with a broker – Covermate Life knows which insurers are more flexible with sleep apnoea.

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Why Choose Covermate Life?

• Specialists in pre-existing conditions, including sleep apnoea.

• Access to multiple insurers for better choice.

• General advice only – we help you compare, you choose.

• Support with applications and claims.

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FAQs – Life Insurance with Sleep Apnoea

Can I get life insurance if I have sleep apnoea?
Yes. Many people with sleep apnoea are accepted for cover, especially if the condition is mild and well-managed.

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Will I pay more for life insurance with sleep apnoea?
Possibly. Premiums depend on the severity of your condition, BMI, and any related health issues.

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Does using a CPAP machine help my application?
Yes. Insurers view ongoing treatment and compliance with CPAP therapy favourably.

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What if my sleep apnoea is severe?
You may face premium loadings or exclusions, but options are still available through certain insurers.

Get Covered with Confidence

At Covermate Life, we help people with sleep apnoea secure the right life insurance. Whether mild or severe, we’ll guide you through the process, compare policies, and support your application.

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Call us today or request a free quote online.