Call for Equitable Cyclone Insurance Subsidies Grows

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.

While the pool's review is set for the following year, Australia Consumers Insurance Lobby's (ACIL) head, Tyrone Shandiman, contends that key improvements, especially in pricing models, could be instated sooner under guidance from Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones. ACIL stresses the necessity of advancing its efficacy prior to the formal evaluation, citing a need for a fairer spread of premium responsibilities.

Recent hearings by the parliamentary Joint Select Committee on Northern Australia, which picked up once more in Brisbane, have rekindled the debate on the government-backed insurance scheme, particularly as the risk season winds down and in the wake of Cyclone Jasper's impact.

Different concerns surfaced during the hearings, with viewpoints diverging on the coverage of flooding by the pool and potential merits of an alternative framework. "Our stance is to perfect the system for cyclones first before tackling flood coverage," remarked Mr. Shandiman. He emphasized the present cyclone insurance model's deficiencies and the beneficial impact of sensible re-modelling.

Another point of contention arose around the coverage for large-scale property developments. While strata property policies witnessed appreciable declines in premiums with the current pool, insurers and consumer advocates alike discuss the struggle for properties with values exceeding $20 million, still facing disproportionately high premiums compared to the nation's average.

To enhance the scope and function of the pool, ACIL released a report last year advocating several changes. The proposals included broadening the time coverage post-cyclone to seven days, increasing regional participation for funding, and even suggesting the inclusion of marine insurance.

Insurers provided differing testimonies before the parliamentary committee, particularly around the contentious 48-hour claim period following a cyclone and whether the scheme should encapsulate flood damages. This divergence of perspectives underscores the complexity of achieving a balanced solution that would appease policyholders while maintaining the financial viability of the insurance pool.

Published:Wednesday, 1st May 2024
Author: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Escalating Fuel Prices Challenge Australia's Trucking Sector

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian trucking industry is currently grappling with significant financial pressures due to escalating fuel prices. This surge is placing immense strain on operators who already contend with narrow profit margins, raising concerns about the sector's sustainability and the broader implications for the national economy. - read more

Court Ruling Emphasises Need for Clarity in Superannuation Insurance

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

A recent Federal Court decision has underscored the critical importance of understanding insurance coverage within superannuation accounts, particularly for individuals in high-risk occupations such as truck driving. - read more

Envest Group's TLI Underwriting Targets Large Truck Fleet Insurance

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Envest Group, a prominent entity in the insurance sector, has announced the launch of TLI Underwriting, a specialised heavy motor agency set to commence operations at the end of this month. This new venture is poised to cater specifically to the insurance needs of larger truck fleets, marking a significant expansion in Envest's service offerings. - read more

ASIC Takes Legal Action Against Budget Direct for Misleading Discounts

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal proceedings against Auto & General, the parent company of Budget Direct, alleging that the insurer engaged in misleading advertising practices concerning policy discounts. This action underscores the regulator's commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness within the Australian insurance industry. - read more

EML Group's Strategic Acquisition of Guild Insurance

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant move within the Australian insurance sector, EML Group has acquired a majority stake in Guild Insurance. This strategic partnership is designed to unlock growth opportunities and accelerate the development of technology and artificial intelligence within the insurance landscape. - read more

Click for more Insurance News