Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny
Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny
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.
Amid rising concerns, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) has flagged the escalating expenses associated with indemnity insurance premiums as a serious issue that demands attention.
Following a heated discussion at a recent national conference held on the Gold Coast, the AMA and its New South Wales branch convened with a number of medical defence organisations to tackle this pressing matter.
During these meetings, participants delved into changes in healthcare delivery and the evolving scopes of medical practice-factors contributing significantly to the rising costs within the medical indemnity sector.
According to a statement published on the AMA’s website, the Medical Defence Organisations (MDOs), which largely operate as member-based mutual entities, acknowledged the industry's growing unease. They shared global insurance market trends and emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication and collaborative efforts with the AMA to address systemic policy issues. Despite the need for cooperation, the constraints of competition law were noted as a limiting factor.
The organizations represented at the meeting included key industry players such as Avant, MDA National, Medical Indemnity Protection Society, MIGA, and Tego.
In its latest report, Avant informed Insurance News that their average rate increments have managed to remain below inflation for several renewal periods. Nevertheless, certain specialized fields have experienced sharp double-digit rate hikes due to specific claim frequencies and severities, affecting less than 1% of their membership.
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.
Zurich Australia has unveiled a pioneering income protection benefit tailored specifically for women's health conditions, including menopause and endometriosis. This initiative addresses the significant impact these conditions have on women's professional lives and financial stability. - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced the resumption of its reforms targeting individual disability income insurance (IDII), commonly known as income protection insurance. This initiative aims to address the financial challenges that have plagued the industry, with insurers reporting losses exceeding $3.4 billion over the past five years. - read more
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently delivered a pivotal ruling that clarifies the definition of 'occupation' within the context of income protection insurance claims. This decision arose from a dispute involving a policyholder whose income protection benefits were terminated after the insurer discovered he was listed as a director of a company while receiving payments. - read more
AustralianSuper, one of Australia's largest superannuation funds, has announced a significant change to its default income protection insurance. Effective from 28 February 2026, the fund will reduce the default income protection cover to $1,000 per month. This adjustment aims to align insurance coverage with members' actual income levels and prevent over-insurance, which can erode retirement savings. - read more
AIA Australia has recently updated its Priority Protection life insurance suite, introducing changes designed to simplify discounts, enhance policy clarity, and support premium affordability. These enhancements, effective from 9 November 2025, reflect AIA's commitment to providing value-driven solutions for policyholders. - read more
Recent reports have highlighted a concerning trend affecting Australian retirees: the escalating cost of insurance premiums is placing significant financial strain on individuals living on fixed incomes. Over the past five years, the average cost of home insurance in Australia has increased by 51%, according to analytics firm Finity. This surge in premiums is particularly burdensome for retirees who rely on limited superannuation funds and pensions to cover their living expenses. - read more
Freelancing in Australia has witnessed exponential growth over the past few years. With the rise of the gig economy, more individuals are enjoying the flexibility and independence that come with being their own boss. From digital marketers to graphic designers, Australians are seizing various freelancing opportunities, embracing the freedom of working on projects that align with their passions. - read more
Income protection insurance serves as a vital safety net for Australian workers, ensuring financial stability in the face of unexpected illness or injury. As the landscape of work and health continues to evolve, understanding the essentials of income protection becomes increasingly crucial for anyone who relies on a steady income to support themselves and their loved ones. - read more
Hello to all the self-employed Aussies out there! Embarking on the journey of self-employment brings with it a unique set of challenges and freedoms. One area we often overlook is the need for a solid financial safety net, customized to our varied incomes and work lifecycles. That's where income protection insurance steps in as a critical component for ensuring financial stability. - read more
Welcome to the beginning of your journey through the maze of insurance policy terms and conditions. For many Australians, navigating through an insurance policy can be as daunting as trying to understand a legal document. That's because, in a way, it is one. This section is designed to set the foundation for a comprehensive understanding of the key terms that impact your insurance claim outcomes. - read more
When life throws unexpected challenges our way, the assurance of financial stability can be a beacon of hope amidst the uncertainty. For many Australians, income protection insurance is that beacon, safeguarding their livelihood and providing a crucial safety net when they need it most. It's more than just a policy; it's a strategic step towards longer-term peace of mind. - read more
Income protection insurance serves as a financial safety net, designed to support individuals in the event that they are unable to work due to illness or injury. The significance of this type of insurance lies in its ability to provide a continuation of income during tough times, ensuring that one's financial responsibilities are taken care of. - read more
Start Here !
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!
All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Subrogation: The process by which an insurance company seeks to recover the amount paid to the policyholder from a third party responsible for the loss.