The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
Federal Members of Parliament (MPs) are set to investigate Northern Tasmania as part of their ongoing review of the insurance sector’s handling of the unprecedented 2022 floods.
The House Standing Committee on Economics will convene at the Paranaple Convention Centre in Devonport on July 17. Chairman Daniel Mulino expressed a keen interest in gaining comprehensive insights from local councils, businesses, and residents regarding their flood-related experiences.
In October 2022, flooding affected Northern Tasmania, alongside significant parts of Victoria and New South Wales (NSW). The Insurance Council of Australia reported that these floods led to $884 million in insured losses and nearly 23,000 claims being lodged, with an impressive closure rate of 95% for these claims.
The committee has reached out to councils, business groups, and community organizations, inviting them to participate in the hearing. Individuals are also encouraged to voice their experiences through submissions at the event or by completing the committee’s survey.
In recent months, the inquiry has reviewed flood-impacted areas across Victoria, NSW, and Queensland. Future hearings are planned for Cairns and Townsville on July 24 and 25, respectively.
The committee aims to publish its final report by September 30.
As mentioned in Insurance News Magazine, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones emphasized his decision to avoid "populist politics" when addressing affordability barriers in the insurance industry amidst these discussions.
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
In recent weeks, Australia's leading insurance companies, including Insurance Australia Group (IAG), Suncorp (SUN), and QBE Insurance (QBE), have experienced notable declines in their share prices. This downturn is largely attributed to growing investor concerns about the potential disruptive impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the traditional insurance business model. - read more
In 2026, Australian insurers are grappling with significant challenges as premium affordability becomes a pressing concern. A recent survey by Gallagher Bassett highlights that 70% of insurers have reported increased claim costs and frequencies over the past year. This surge is largely attributed to escalating climate-related losses and inflationary pressures affecting materials and labour costs. - read more
In a significant development for Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Zurich has partnered with US-based cyber insurance specialist Cowbell to introduce an AI-driven cyber insurance product tailored for businesses with annual turnovers up to $100 million. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in enhancing cyber resilience among Australian SMEs. - read more
In a landmark decision, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has directed an insurer to honor an arson-related claim for a restaurant, despite the non-disclosure of the director's criminal history during the policy's inception. This ruling underscores the complexities surrounding disclosure obligations and the interpretation of policy terms. - read more
The New South Wales Productivity Commissioner, Peter Achterstraat, has recommended the prohibition of commissions received by strata managers for securing insurance and other contracts. This move aims to enhance transparency and protect the interests of apartment owners, especially as strata living becomes increasingly prevalent in Sydney. - read more
Financial security is one of the most important aspects of modern family life. Ensuring that loved ones are protected and well-supported in the event of an untimely death is a fundamental concern for many Australians. - read more
Life insurance is an essential financial protection that provides peace of mind to policyholders and their loved ones. The premiums you pay are determined by various factors, including age, health, lifestyle, and occupation. - read more
Life is a tapestry of precious moments, each framed by the inevitable uncertainty that the future holds. The awareness that our paths are peppered with unpredictability can often cast a shadow of concern, affecting how we cherish the present. For many, the well-being of family remains the cornerstone of life's purpose, driving the need for a foundation that offers stability and reassurance in the face of life's unexpected challenges. - read more
When it comes to financial planning, life insurance often takes a backseat. Many married couples in Australia overlook its importance, thinking that it's not immediately necessary or that they can simply put it off for later. However, life insurance should be regarded as a cornerstone of a solid financial strategy. - read more
Life is an unpredictable journey filled with twists and turns that can challenge even the most prepared among us. Sudden illnesses and unexpected injuries are just some of the uncertainties that can disrupt the harmony of family life. The emotional turmoil brought on by these circumstances is often compounded by the financial strain they can cause. It's during these trying times that the true value of peace of mind becomes clear. - read more
Knowledgebase
Rider: An optional provision added to an insurance policy that provides additional benefits or coverage.