The origin of GMHBA dates back to 1927, when the Australian Cement Company instituted the Cement Workers Hospital Benefits Scheme; a health insurance scheme for employees and their families.

In 1928 a number of similar schemes were formed and began providing health insurance to employees of other industrial organisations.

Over the ensuing years, the demand for public access to a health benefits scheme grew and in 1934 a new "open" scheme was formed at a Public Meeting called by the Mayor of Geelong.

The new Fund was able to provide cover for people who were not employed in the industrial sector.

Over the next decade the "open" health insurance fund grew rapidly and the industrial based schemes gradually transferred their operations and membership to the open fund.

It was 24 years later in 1958 that the fund adopted the name of Geelong Medical and Hospital Benefits Association- commonly known as GMHBA. The company formally changed its name to GMHBA Limited in October 2000.

From the fund's humble beginnings in 1927, GMHBA has now grown to become Australia's leading regionally-based health insurer.

Today, GMHBA provides private health insurance to thousands of individuals and families across Australia.

GMHBA remains a not-for-profit, 100% member based organisation.