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.
Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travelers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted industry leaders to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before traveling abroad. - read more
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has reported a notable 4.3% increase in gross written premium (GWP), reaching $17.1 billion for the fiscal year 2025. This growth is accompanied by a net profit after tax of $1.36 billion, marking a significant rise from the previous year's $898 million. The company's reported insurance profit stands at $1.74 billion, with a margin of 17.5%, and a return on equity improving to 19.4%. Shareholders are set to benefit from a full-year dividend of 31. - read more
Recent developments in the global financial markets have sparked discussions about potential benefits for Australian insurance policyholders. A significant sell-off in the insurance sector on Wall Street has led analysts to speculate that Australian insurance premiums could see a reduction in the near future. - read more
A recent landmark ruling in New South Wales has significantly altered the liability landscape for the construction industry. The court's decision removes the ability for developers and builders to rely on proportionate liability defences under the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (DBP Act), thereby increasing their exposure to claims related to building defects. - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released its latest National Claims and Policies Database (NCPD) statistics, revealing a substantial increase in public liability insurance premiums over recent years. According to the data, premiums have risen by 40% since 2015, a rate that surpasses general inflation and places additional financial strain on businesses across the country. - 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
Trauma insurance, also known as critical illness insurance, is a type of coverage that provides a lump sum payment in the event that the insured suffers from a critical illness or injury. Unlike health insurance, which covers medical expenses, trauma insurance is designed to provide financial protection by helping to cover the additional costs associated with recovery from a severe illness or injury. - 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
Life insurance is a financial product that provides a lump sum payment to your beneficiaries in the event of your death. It is designed to offer financial security by covering debts, daily living expenses, and future financial obligations. - read more
Financial security for families is an essential consideration in any household. Life can be unpredictable, and ensuring that your loved ones are protected from financial hardship in your absence is a critical part of financial planning. - read more
Knowledgebase
Term Life Insurance: A life insurance that provides a cover for a specific period of time - usually one to five years or until the insured reaches age 65 or 70.