Farm Insurance :: News

Share this news item!

ACT Targets Rising Insurance Costs with Comprehensive Inquiry

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.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is launching a thorough investigation into the escalating insurance costs that have been a cause for concern for businesses and community organizations.

This inquiry aims to shed light on the factors contributing to rising premiums and their broader impact.

Driven by the Legislative Assembly’s Standing Committee on Economics, Industry, and Recreation, the inquiry will explore several pivotal issues, including how insurance costs in the ACT measure against those in other regions, with a keen focus on workers' compensation and climate change impacts. "We are particularly interested in suggestions for improving the insurance sector to make it easier for small businesses and organisations to operate in the ACT," said committee chair Taimus Werner-Gibbings.

The investigation is set to delve into important topics like public liability claim trends, litigation behaviors influencing premium costs, and the challenges non-governmental and community projects face in accessing insurance coverage.

Part of the inquiry will also evaluate how insurance entities assess risks and consider public and private sector efforts in risk reduction. This is especially pertinent for community sports, recreation, and the creative arts when using government venues and facilities, as these requirements significantly affect their operations.

Additionally, the inquiry will examine models for offering public sector policies to community organizations, extending the scope to those that operate across state lines or on an international level.

According to the Canberra Business Chamber, there’s been a pressing need for action regarding insurance costs, which have been soaring to levels that many companies find unsustainable. "Increases in insurance premiums ultimately translate into price increases for customers and make it harder for businesses to operate sustainably," remarked CEO Greg Harford.

The chamber highlighted in its September-quarter Canberra Business Beat report that 44% of surveyed businesses experienced premium hikes exceeding 20% over two years, with these increases surpassing inflation rates.

Mr. Harford pointed out that although insurance costs are generally concerning, workers' compensation in the ACT stands out as particularly troublesome. "The chamber is hearing about huge price hikes for workers’ compensation insurance, and members report that it is substantially more expensive here in the ACT than in NSW or other jurisdictions," he added, noting the competitive disadvantage this creates for ACT-based businesses compared to those in other states.

Submissions for the inquiry are open until March 14, with the committee yet to announce when the findings will be reported.

The source of this information is from previous reports and statements, including insights from Greg Harford of the Canberra Business Chamber.

Published:Tuesday, 28th Jan 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

WFI Insurance and Farmsafe Australia Join Forces to Boost Farm Safety Standards

24 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to enhance safety within the Australian agricultural sector, WFI Insurance has partnered with Farmsafe Australia. This collaboration is designed to raise awareness about farming hazards and advocate for the adoption of safer work practices among farmers. - read more

Argis Underwriting Partners with Pacific International to Expand Farm Insurance Offerings

24 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Argis Underwriting has announced a new partnership with Newcastle-based Pacific International Insurance, enabling the company to resume offering farm insurance coverage across Australia. This development comes after Argis ceased providing new business and renewal terms on its Farm Extra Insurance in April, following the conclusion of a five-year arrangement with HDI Global Specialty. - read more

WFI Insurance Reports Significant Decline in Farm Liability Claims

24 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

WFI Insurance has reported a notable decrease in farm liability claims across most categories, signaling a positive trend in safety practices within the Australian agricultural sector. The insurer observed a 75% reduction in falls from height over the past year, alongside a 30% decline in impact injuries, marking the lowest level in four years. - read more

WFI Insurance Joins Forces with Farmsafe Australia to Boost Farm Safety Standards

16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to enhance safety within the Australian agricultural sector, WFI Insurance has announced a partnership with Farmsafe Australia. This collaboration is designed to raise awareness about farming hazards and advocate for the adoption of safer work practices among farmers. - read more

Argis Underwriting Partners with Pacific International to Expand Farm Insurance Offerings

16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

WFI Insurance Reports Significant Decline in Farm Liability Claims

16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Click for more Insurance News

Farm Insurance Articles

Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: What Rural Australians Need to Know

Farm equipment insurance is crucial for rural Australians who rely on their machinery for agricultural productivity. This insurance provides a safety net, helping to mitigate the financial risks associated with equipment loss or damage. - read more

5 Key Types of Farm Insurance Policies for Australian Farmers

As an Australian farmer, understanding the necessity of farm insurance is crucial to protecting your livelihood. The agricultural sector is inherently fraught with risks, ranging from natural disasters to the unpredictable market. Farm insurance serves as a vital safety net, safeguarding your farm's infrastructure, crops, livestock, and more. - read more

Is Your Farm Under-Insured? Tips for Assessing Bushfire Insurance Adequacy

The threat of bushfires looms large over the vast expanses of rural Australia, shaping the reality of farming in this sunbaked landscape. The risk, always present, escalates as the climate warms and dry conditions persist. It's not a matter of if, but when the land will be tested by fire's wrath. In this environment, the armor of insurance isn't just recommended; it's critical for survival. - read more

The Impact of Weather on Farm Insurance Rates: What You Should Know

Farming in Australia is a dynamic venture that requires careful planning and management. One of the crucial aspects every Australian farmer should consider is farm insurance. It provides a safety net against potential financial losses arising from various risks. These include natural disasters, damage to crops, livestock issues, and accidents on the farm property. - read more

The Farmer's Handbook to Quick and Effective Insurance Claims

Insurance is a vital part of safeguarding any farming operation. As a farmer, protecting your property, equipment, and livelihood from unexpected events like natural disasters, theft, or accidents is crucial. Adequate insurance coverage ensures that you can recover quickly from setbacks without enduring overwhelming financial strain. - read more

Preparing for the Worst: Developing a Comprehensive Disaster Response Plan for Your Farm

As a farmer, you know that unexpected events can have a significant impact on your farm and your livelihood. Natural disasters, such as floods, fires, droughts, and storms, can occur at any time and have devastating consequences. That's why it's crucial to have a comprehensive disaster response plan in place to protect your property, assets, and, most importantly, your loved ones and livestock. - read more

Need a Quote?

Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.

Knowledgebase

Peril:
A specific risk or cause of loss covered by an insurance policy, such as fire, theft, or flood.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust) 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228, A.C.N. 010281008.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.