Income Protection Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Rising Insurance Premiums Intensify Australia's Cost-of-Living Crisis

Rising Insurance Premiums Intensify Australia's Cost-of-Living Crisis

Rising Insurance Premiums Intensify Australia's Cost-of-Living Crisis?w=400
Insurance expenses across Australia have surged by $30 billion over the past decade, as highlighted by the Climate Council, with premiums escalating more than double the inflation rate during this period.
This escalation comes alongside insurance companies reporting annual losses averaging $4.5 billion over the last five years due to weather-related calamities, marking a 67% increase from past years, primarily driven by flood-related claims.

According to the Insurance Council of Australia, 225,000 homes face a 2% to 5% annual flood risk, yet only 23% of these are protected by flood insurance, a stark contrast to the national average of 60%. The Actuaries Institute reveals that 12% of households are experiencing insurance affordability stress, meaning their home insurance premiums exceed four weeks' worth of income.

Supporting these findings, research from The Australia Institute indicates that 1 in 5 households are either uninsured or underinsured, with 4% lacking insurance entirely and 15% carrying insufficient coverage. This leaves many families significantly exposed, with predictions suggesting uninsured households could forfeit three-quarters of their wealth if disaster strikes.

Despite the sharp increase in premiums, Australian insurers have struggled with underwriting losses in the home insurance sector. This rise in insurance costs has been a significant factor in the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, fuelling upward pressure on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation.

These findings underscore the pressing challenges in mitigating affordability issues while ensuring adequate insurance coverage amid increasingly prevalent extreme weather events. Policymakers and industry stakeholders must work collaboratively to address these concerns, balancing consumer protection with financial sustainability in the insurance sector.

Published:Tuesday, 29th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

ACCC Strengthens Position Against Broker Commissions ACCC Strengthens Position Against Broker Commissions
02 May 2025: Paige Estritori

In a recent submission to the professional code of practice review, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has reiterated its position against broker commissions. Echoing findings from its 2020 Northern Australia Insurance Inquiry, the ACCC advocates for extending the ban on conflicted remuneration to include brokers. - read more
Partial Settlement Reached in Homeowner's 'Slow Leak' Insurance Dispute Partial Settlement Reached in Homeowner's 'Slow Leak' Insurance Dispute
01 May 2025: Paige Estritori

A recent ruling by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has determined that Auto & General Services must cover a portion of a homeowner's insurance claim related to long-term water damage caused by a leaking pipe. The decision comes after a protracted dispute regarding the coverage of damages arising from a leak that reportedly developed over 12 months, spanning both before and during the insurance policy period. - read more
AFCA Supports Insurer's Decision in Ex-Spouse Death Dispute AFCA Supports Insurer's Decision in Ex-Spouse Death Dispute
30 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori

In an intriguing case involving travel insurance and familial ties, a woman's claim for travel costs upon the death of her ex-husband has been rejected. While she returned abruptly from her vacation to support her family, Nib Travel Services (Australia) deemed her claim outside of coverage parameters. - read more
New Water Restoration Standard Revolutionises Claims Handling in Australia New Water Restoration Standard Revolutionises Claims Handling in Australia
30 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori

A recently introduced Australian standard is set to transform the landscape of water damage restoration, enhancing consistency and quality in claims handling while bolstering consumer protection. This development, according to industry professional Jeremy Stamkos, Managing Director of RIC Solutions and chair of the Standards Australia committee, positions the sector at the forefront of global best practices. - read more
Rising Insurance Premiums Intensify Australia's Cost-of-Living Crisis Rising Insurance Premiums Intensify Australia's Cost-of-Living Crisis
29 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori

Insurance expenses across Australia have surged by $30 billion over the past decade, as highlighted by the Climate Council, with premiums escalating more than double the inflation rate during this period. This escalation comes alongside insurance companies reporting annual losses averaging $4.5 billion over the last five years due to weather-related calamities, marking a 67% increase from past years, primarily driven by flood-related claims. - read more
Potential AI Errors: A Looming Challenge for Insurers Potential AI Errors: A Looming Challenge for Insurers
24 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori

Industry experts are signaling a potential risk for underwriters due to claims arising from inaccuracies produced by artificial intelligence (AI), likening it to the 'silent cyber' phenomenon of the past. Clyde & Co partner, Darryl Smith, highlights the issue, emphasizing how AI inaccuracies could impact various insurance policies, sometimes without immediate detection. - read more



Life Insurance Articles

Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia
Income protection insurance is a crucial safeguard for many Australians, designed to provide financial stability in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury. This type of insurance delivers a regular income, usually up to a certain percentage of your regular earnings, ensuring that you can meet your financial obligations even when your health prevents you from earning a wage. - read more
The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies
Income protection insurance is often surrounded by the myth of being unaffordable, deterring many Australians from safeguarding their most valuable asset—their ability to earn. This introduction aims to address this misconception head on, revealing the real value that income insurance policies can provide. It is crucial to understand that the cost of such a policy pales in comparison to the potential financial hardship faced without one. - read more
What Australians Need to Know Before Choosing an Income Protection Plan What Australians Need to Know Before Choosing an Income Protection Plan
Income protection insurance is a critical safety net for Australians, offering financial security in the event that one is unable to work due to illness or injury. The peace of mind it brings cannot be overstated, as it ensures that individuals and their families can maintain their standard of living even when the unexpected happens. - read more
Breaking Down the Barriers: Understanding Income Protection for Self-Employed Aussies Breaking Down the Barriers: Understanding Income Protection for Self-Employed Aussies
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
Busting the Myth That Income Protection is Only for Physical Injuries Busting the Myth That Income Protection is Only for Physical Injuries
To all the self-employed Australians! You're the backbone of our economy, recognized for your entrepreneurial spirit and abilities to navigate the unique challenges of managing your own business. Yet, with great freedom comes great responsibility, particularly when it comes to securing your financial well-being. - read more
Benefit and Wailting Periods: Choosing the Right Combination for Maximum Protection and Value Benefit and Wailting Periods: Choosing the Right Combination for Maximum Protection and Value
In Australia, income protection insurance stands as a vital safeguard for professionals, ensuring security during times of unexpected illness or injury. It acts as a financial buffer, providing a percentage of your regular income, so you can maintain your lifestyle without the stress of lost earnings. - read more
Understanding Your Policy: Key Terms That Impact Your Insurance Claim Outcome Understanding Your Policy: Key Terms That Impact Your Insurance Claim Outcome
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
Decoding the Fine Print: What to Look out for in Your Income Protection Policy Decoding the Fine Print: What to Look out for in Your Income Protection Policy
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
Income Protection vs. Life Insurance: Tax Differences You Should Consider Income Protection vs. Life Insurance: Tax Differences You Should Consider
Have you ever wondered how income protection insurance can affect your taxes? It's an often-overlooked aspect of managing your finances that could make a substantial difference. Understanding your insurance options is crucial in making informed decisions that benefit your long-term financial health. - read more
Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs
In recent times, the allure of being your own boss has led to a significant shift towards self-employment in Australia. This growing trend reflects a desire for greater flexibility and autonomy in one's career. However, amidst this independence lie uncertainties and financial risks unique to those who venture out on their own. - read more
Dispelling the Myths: Why Income Protection is More Accessible Than You Think Dispelling the Myths: Why Income Protection is More Accessible Than You Think
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
The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies
Income protection insurance is often surrounded by the myth of being unaffordable, deterring many Australians from safeguarding their most valuable asset—their ability to earn. This introduction aims to address this misconception head on, revealing the real value that income insurance policies can provide. It is crucial to understand that the cost of such a policy pales in comparison to the potential financial hardship faced without one. - read more

Start Here !
disability protection
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Monthly Income Benefit:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Coverage:
The amount of risk or liability covered for an individual or entity by way of insurance services.