Cyber Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurers Seek Government Partnership to Tackle Insurance Costs

Insurers Seek Government Partnership to Tackle Insurance Costs

Insurers Seek Government Partnership to Tackle Insurance Costs?w=400

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.

In a bid to tackle the skyrocketing costs of insurance, especially in high-risk flood areas, members of the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) are considering various government intervention strategies such as a flood reinsurance pool or direct subsidies.

The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet aims to address these affordability issues by establishing the Insurance Affordability and Natural Hazard Risk Reduction Taskforce. The ICA is actively engaging with the government to explore potential solutions.

According to ICA CEO Andrew Hall, while long-term measures like infrastructure investment, property buybacks, and updated land use planning are crucial, there’s a pressing need for short-term solutions in collaboration with the government to support those most affected.

A report from the Actuaries Institute last year highlighted that approximately 171,000 households are experiencing severe insurance affordability issues, with riverine flood risks contributing to over half of their premiums.

Hall emphasized that for residents in regions where mitigative measures might not significantly lower risk, immediate assistance is necessary. Consequently, the ICA strategy committee is contemplating partnership models.

"Collaborating with the government to explore these options is one of our key commitments," Hall stated.

The perspectives of ICA members vary considerably, ranging from support for traditional reinsurance pools to opposition to any form of intervention. However, Hall pointed out that there is a common understanding of the crucial principles: clearly identifying the problem, avoiding market distortions, and ensuring that the real risk prices are not obscured.

"There’s no set timeline for the taskforce's findings, but progress is being made," he added.

At this time, the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet has not provided additional details about the taskforce's operations.

Hall remains optimistic about the proactive discussions between insurers and the government. "Our focus is on finding ways to maintain a stable and competitive insurance market that benefits consumers. We eagerly anticipate advancing these conversations through the taskforce."

This adaptation of the news article is based on original reporting from insuranceNEWS.com.au.

Published:Friday, 24th May 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Significant Increase in Health Insurance Premiums Anticipated for 2026
Significant Increase in Health Insurance Premiums Anticipated for 2026
21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Health insurance premiums are set to experience a substantial increase in 2026, with projections indicating a global rise of 10.3%. This marks the third consecutive year of significant hikes, following increases of 10% in 2025 and 9.5% in 2024. These figures are highlighted in WTW's 2026 Global Medical Trends report, underscoring the persistent inflationary pressures affecting insurers and employer-sponsored health plans worldwide. - read more
Private Health Insurers Under Scrutiny for Profits Amid Rising Premiums
Private Health Insurers Under Scrutiny for Profits Amid Rising Premiums
21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent analyses have brought to light significant concerns regarding the profit margins of private health insurers in Australia, especially in the context of rising premiums. The Australia Institute has highlighted that major insurers are reporting substantial profits while simultaneously increasing premiums, a situation that has sparked criticism and calls for greater transparency within the industry. - read more
Health Minister Puts Private Health Insurers on Notice Over Pricing Practices
Health Minister Puts Private Health Insurers on Notice Over Pricing Practices
21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Health Minister Mark Butler has issued a stern warning to private health insurers in Australia, cautioning them against employing underhanded tactics to increase premiums. This comes in response to findings from the Commonwealth Ombudsman, which revealed that some insurers have been closing old policies and introducing more expensive new ones, effectively circumventing regulatory limits on premium hikes. - read more
AUSactive Unveils Comprehensive Insurance Solution for Fitness Professionals
AUSactive Unveils Comprehensive Insurance Solution for Fitness Professionals
21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
AUSactive, Australia's leading body for the exercise and active health sector, has announced the launch of a new insurance product tailored specifically for fitness professionals. This initiative, developed in collaboration with global insurance broker Marsh, aims to provide enhanced protection while offering lower premiums compared to existing market options. - read more
Health Insurers to Include Natural Therapies in Coverage from 2026
Health Insurers to Include Natural Therapies in Coverage from 2026
21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant policy shift, Australian health insurers will begin offering rebates for a range of natural therapies, including Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Shiatsu, Naturopathy, Western herbal medicine, and the Alexander Technique, starting early 2026. This change follows legislative amendments allowing these therapies to be covered under private health insurance for the treatment of health conditions or as part of health management programs. - read more


Cyber Insurance Articles

From Phishing to Hacking: Examining the Coverage Options of Cyber Insurance Policies
From Phishing to Hacking: Examining the Coverage Options of Cyber Insurance Policies
In today's digital landscape, Australian small businesses face a myriad of cyber risks that can threaten their operations and financial stability. From sophisticated phishing scams to debilitating hacking attacks, the need to safeguard against such digital threats has never been more pressing. This introductory guide serves to illuminate the complexities of the cyber risk environment within Australia, focusing on the small business sector's unique vulnerabilities. - read more
Cyber Security Checklists: Keeping Your Small Business Safe
Cyber Security Checklists: Keeping Your Small Business Safe
In today's digital age, cyber security has become a critical aspect for small businesses in Australia. As more operations move online, the potential for cyber threats increases. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable, making it essential to understand and address these risks proactively. - read more
The Importance of Cyber Risk Management in Modern Business
The Importance of Cyber Risk Management in Modern Business
Cyber risk management involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing potential risks to an organization's digital assets and implementing measures to mitigate these threats. - read more
Understanding the Risks: How Cyber Threats Can Cripple Your Business
Understanding the Risks: How Cyber Threats Can Cripple Your Business
In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, Australian businesses face an ever-increasing array of cyber threats. From sophisticated phishing schemes to ransomware attacks, these dangers lurk in the virtual shadows, often going unnoticed until it's too late. Recognizing and understanding these cyber risks is not just important; it's crucial for the sustainability and success of any modern enterprise. - read more
Data Breach Recovery: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Businesses
Data Breach Recovery: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Businesses
Data breaches have become a significant concern for businesses in today's digital landscape. Simply put, a data breach occurs when sensitive, protected, or confidential information is accessed, disclosed, or used without authorization. The implications of such breaches can be far-reaching, affecting not just financial health but also the reputation of businesses and the security of individuals involved. - read more


Your free Cyber insurance quote comparison starts here!
First Name:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Endorsement:
An amendment or addition to an existing insurance policy that changes the terms or scope of the original policy.