Farm Insurance :: News

Share this news item!

Victorian Insurance Premiums Spike Amidst Industry Turbulence

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 the midst of considerable upheaval within the construction industry, the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) has revealed substantial hikes in its builders' warranty insurance premiums, effective August 6.

These increments follow an unprecedented surge in claims settlements over recent months.

Michael Keynes, a spokesperson for VMIA, stated that the raises, which see premiums leaping by an average of 53%, are a necessary measure to accommodate the recent flood of claims. "A record number of domestic building insurance claims have been resolved over the past year." Since July 1, the insurer has settled over 4000 claims.

Specifically, premiums for new single and multi-unit constructions will surge by 65%, while structural and non-structural renovations along with swimming pools will face a 20% rise. The charges for owner-builders are also set to increase by 65%.

Keynes attributes this spike to several intersecting issues: "We are dealing with the compounded effects of builder insolvencies, high inflation, and an ongoing shortage of skilled workers, all of which drive up building costs. As a result, VMIA needs to adjust premiums to ensure continued protection for homeowners when builders can't complete or rectify constructions."

In response, industry watchdogs, such as the Housing Industry Association (HIA), have been vocal about their objections. Keith Ryan, the executive director of HIA Victoria, warned that these increased premiums will further dent housing affordability in the state. "Victorian home builders and their clients are already grappling with soaring costs. This increase is an additional burden which hits new homebuyers the hardest," Ryan said in a statement.

The new premiums add to the already heavy financial load confronting new home buyers. "In Melbourne, nearly half of the cost of a new house and land package is swallowed up by taxes, fees, and related charges - effectively putting homeownership out of reach for many Victorians," Ryan elaborated.

Ryan also expressed disappointment that higher premiums were not coupled with enhanced insurance benefits for homeowners. He cautioned that builders, already stretched by increased material and labor costs, will ultimately pass these added expenses on to customers.

While premium hikes are aimed at safeguarding homeowners in these turbulent times, it’s clear that the cascading costs and their effects on housing affordability will spark further debate. This article incorporates information originally reported by insuranceNEWS.com.au.

Published:Monday, 17th Jun 2024
Author: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Australian Farmers Confront Rising Insurance Premiums Amid Climate Challenges

22 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Australian farmers are currently grappling with a significant surge in insurance premiums, with increases ranging from 20% to 40%, depending on the insurer. This escalation is primarily driven by the rising frequency and severity of natural disasters, coupled with a contracting underwriter market and escalating costs of goods and services. - read more

Widespread Rural Crime Exposes NSW Farmers to Repeated Victimisation

22 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

A recent survey conducted by WFI Insurance in collaboration with the University of New England (UNE) Centre for Rural Criminology has unveiled alarming statistics regarding rural crime in New South Wales. The findings indicate that over 90% of NSW farmers have encountered criminal activities on their properties, with approximately 30% reporting being targeted seven or more times. - read more

Elders Insurance Highlights Increased Summer Storm Risks for Farmers

22 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

As the Australian summer approaches, Elders Insurance has issued a cautionary advisory to farmers, emphasising the heightened risk of storm-related damages during this season. Recent data indicates a significant increase in insurance claims due to summer storms, underscoring the need for proactive measures to safeguard agricultural assets. - read more

CGU and WFI Collaborate with Ag Guard to Boost Farm Insurance Services

14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for Australia's agricultural sector, CGU and WFI Insurance have announced an exclusive partnership with Ag Guard, a technology-driven agricultural insurance agency. This collaboration, set to commence in June 2026, aims to bolster the agricultural insurance capabilities of both insurers and enhance digital services for brokers, partners, and customers. - read more

Insurance Council Declares Significant Events for Northern Territory and Queensland Floods

14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has declared two Significant Events in response to the severe rainfall and flooding that have recently impacted the Northern Territory and Queensland. This declaration pertains to the flooding in Katherine and surrounding regions in the Northern Territory, as well as the Bundaberg region and Burnett River catchment in Queensland. - read more

Insurance Council Advocates for Climate Resilience Investment on Cyclone Alfred Anniversary

14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Marking one year since Tropical Cyclone Alfred caused $1.5 billion in insured damages and an estimated $2.7 billion in total economic losses, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has renewed its call for urgent investment in climate resilience. The ICA emphasises the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Farm Insurance Articles

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

Livestock Insurance for Aussie Farmers: What You Need to Know

Livestock farming is a significant part of the Australian agriculture industry. As with any business, farmers face numerous risks such as disease, death, theft or extreme weather events, which could cause damage or loss to their livestock assets. Livestock insurance provides cover against these risks, ensuring that farmers are financially protected from any potential financial losses, which could devastate their livelihoods. - 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

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

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

Need a Quote?

Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.

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.

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.