We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!
Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.
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
| Australia’s Insurtech Rise: Pioneering Innovation in Insurance 12 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian insurtech sector is steadily gaining prominence with innovative products aimed at boosting efficiency, security, and customer interaction. According to a recent report titled 'Insurtech Down Under: Trends, Tech and Triumphs,' the sector's growth is accelerating, supported by strategic investments and technological advancements. - read more |
| Hacked Company Loses Insurance Battle Over Customer Payment Scam 11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori A company recently faced a significant setback after losing an insurance claim dispute related to funds stolen in a fraudulent email scheme. Cybercriminals infiltrated the business's email system, sending out fake invoices that directed clients to pay into a bogus bank account. Consequently, two customers inadvertently transferred a total of $66,148 to the fraudulent account. Attempts to retrieve this money were unsuccessful, and the customers refused further payments to the company. - read more |
| Australia Underwriting Rises to Meet Complex Insurance Challenges 11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori In an evolving insurance landscape where traditional underwriters are hesitant to cover high-risk scenarios, Australia Underwriting has strategically positioned itself to fill this crucial gap. The company has become recognized for its expertise in handling difficult-to-place insurance risks, often ignored by larger insurers focused on lower-risk ventures. Founded by industry veteran George Vincent, the firm has capitalized on unserved market segments and emerged as a vital player in the Australian insurance space. - read more |
| Ombudsman Orders Higher Compensation From Insurer Over Mould Dispute 10 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has directed insurance provider Hollard to enhance its compensation payout to a homeowner following a failed attempt to remediate mould contamination in the owner’s property. Despite previous repair efforts by Hollard, lingering mould issues persisted, prompting further disputes. - read more |
| Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy 06 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s proposal to dismantle major insurance companies to boost competitiveness and reduce premiums has sparked significant pushback from industry brokers. The suggestion, criticized as ineffective, faces opposition from those who argue that the root causes of high premiums lie elsewhere. - read more |
| $30 Billion Flood Defence Fund Proposed in Election Agenda 04 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has unveiled its election platform, urging the federal government to significantly enhance flood defences by establishing a $30.15 billion flood defence fund. This initiative, highlighted as the primary recommendation, seeks to mitigate the catastrophic impact of floods, which are deemed as Australia’s most financially damaging natural disaster. - 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
|
| What You Need to Know About Crop Insurance for Your Farm Farming is a risky business. As a farmer, you are at the mercy of the weather, pests, and other challenges that can threaten your crops and your livelihood. That’s where crop insurance comes in. Crop insurance can provide financial protection in case your crops are damaged or destroyed, allowing you to recover from losses and move forward with your farm business. - read more
|
| The importance of income protection insurance for hobby farmers As a hobby farmer, you may not rely on your farm for your main source of income. Perhaps you have a full-time job but enjoy farming as a way to supplement your income and pursue a passion. However, just because farming is a hobby does not mean there aren't risks involved. In fact, hobby farmers face many of the same risks as commercial farmers, such as injury, illness, loss of crops or livestock, and damage to property. - read more
|
| Secure Your Farm's Future: Understanding the Importance of On-Farm Risk Assessment In the ever-evolving landscape of modern agriculture, the security and stability of a farm hinge on thorough preparation and strategic foresight. A pivotal component in safeguarding a farm's future lies in the critical role of on-farm risk assessment. This process provides a structured approach to identifying potential risks that could affect a farm's operations, financial health, and overall sustainability. - read more
|
| Agribusiness Risk: Liability Issues Facing Australian Farmers Today The agricultural sector in Australia carves a significant portion of the country's economy, contributing to its GDP and providing employment across rural and suburban areas. Thus, navigating the complexities of agribusiness is not just a matter of crop cultivation and livestock management, but also of understanding the intricate web of liability risks that come with the terrain. - read more
|
|
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
|
|
Essential Coverage vs. Optional Add-ons: Balancing Protection and Costs For Australian farmers, having the right insurance coverage isn't just a safety net—it's an integral part of sustaining their livelihood. Natural disasters, unpredictable climate conditions, and the inherent risks of agricultural production underline the critical importance of robust insurance for the agricultural community. As farmers navigate the complexities of insurance, understanding the basics becomes the first step toward securing their assets and ensuring the continuity of their operations. - read more
|
|
|
Secure Your Farm's Future: Understanding the Importance of On-Farm Risk Assessment In the ever-evolving landscape of modern agriculture, the security and stability of a farm hinge on thorough preparation and strategic foresight. A pivotal component in safeguarding a farm's future lies in the critical role of on-farm risk assessment. This process provides a structured approach to identifying potential risks that could affect a farm's operations, financial health, and overall sustainability. - read more
|
|
Top 10 Ways Australian Farmers Can Slash Insurance Costs Without Risking Coverage Welcome to our definitive guide for Australian farmers on managing one of the most crucial aspects of their business: insurance. As a cultivator of the land, you're no stranger to the unpredictability of nature and the market. From intense weather events to fluctuating market demands, your line of work comes with its unique set of risks. Hence, safeguarding your livelihood with the right insurance is not just important—it's essential. - read more
|
|
|
What You Need to Know About Crop Insurance for Your Farm Farming is a risky business. As a farmer, you are at the mercy of the weather, pests, and other challenges that can threaten your crops and your livelihood. That’s where crop insurance comes in. Crop insurance can provide financial protection in case your crops are damaged or destroyed, allowing you to recover from losses and move forward with your farm business. - read more
|
|
The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Farm Insurance for Australian Farmers Welcome to 'The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Farm Insurance for Australian Farmers.' As stewards of the vast Australian countryside, farmers face an array of unique challenges and risks. Every day, they grapple with the forces of nature, the volatility of the markets, and the complexities of modern agricultural operations. - read more
|