Welcome to the Insurance Online News podcast with your host, Paige Estritori, where we deliver the latest and most significant news from the world of insurance in Australia. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to bring you the freshest updates, focusing on the stories that matter the most to both Australian businesses and individual consumers over the past week.
Through meticulous research, we transform these developments into original content that not only keeps you informed but also offers deep insights into the insurance landscape as it stands today. Our podcast distills these crucial updates into a format that's both succinct and captivating. For professionals within the insurance realm or personal consumers keen on keeping up with insurance trends, look no further. Paige Estritori brings you all the essential information daily, making our podcast the ultimate destination for trustworthy and impactful insurance news.
This Week:
ASIC tightens its conflicts guidance, flagging that commission‑only pay structures should be avoided. A broker code review pushes for fee and commission disclosure to all individuals and small businesses. Younger homeowners are under‑prepared for summer hazards as storm‑related claims surge, prompting a quick check of maintenance and sum‑insureds. And an ABC report alleges some super funds are delaying disability (TPD) claims, highlighting the need to understand whats covered and to keep records handy. Listeners are urged to compare policies and costs and use independent brokers via InsuranceOnline.com.au.
Hello and welcome to Insurance Online News, Im Paige Estritori, and its Thursday 25 December 2025.
First up, the corporate regulator ASIC has updated its conflicts-of-interest guide. It says commission‑only pay structures should be avoided, and its added fresh examples for general insurance, including volume bonuses and white‑labelled products. This matters because you should get clearer, more consistent conversations about how advice and distribution are paid for. When you compare personal or business insurance quotes, ask for fees and commissions in writing and weigh them alongside cover and exclusions.
Meanwhile, a review of the brokers code recommends that all individuals and small businesses be told about fees and commissions, not just retail clients. If adopted, that would standardise transparency at quote and renewal. If you run a business, request a full cost breakdown and compare like‑for‑like limits and conditions so you dont pay for cover you dont need or miss what you do need.
Next up, a new survey highlights a preparedness gap among younger homeowners heading into summer, while insurers report a surge in storm‑related claims this year. Thats a reminder that simple maintenance can cut damage and downtime. Take a few minutes to clear gutters, secure loose items, check your sum insured against current rebuild costs, and compare your home or landlord policy if its been a while.
And a quick note on life and disability cover: a report this week alleged some super funds are too slow on disability claims, often called TPD, total and permanent disability. If your cover sits inside super, timelines can stretch without complete information. Check what youre covered for, keep medical and employment records organised, and consider whether a top‑up outside super suits your needs so income protection and TPD work together.
Thats it for now. For fast, free quotes and access to independent brokers nationwide, head to insuranceonline.com.au. Im Paige Estritori—thanks for listening, and stay safe this holiday period.
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.
Follow us!
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.
The serene morning mists settling over green pastures and the peaceful clucking of poultry might paint an idyllic picture of farm life, but seasoned farmers know that this lifestyle comes with its own set of risks and uncertainties. In the world of agriculture, each new day could bring events that threaten your way of life and the heart of your business. This is where farm insurance becomes not just important, but essential. - read more
For generations, farmers have faced the challenge of protecting their crops from an array of threats, such as pests, diseases, and extreme weather. Traditional crop protection strategies have relied heavily on blanket approaches, as in using widespread pesticide application, or generalized irrigation systems, regardless of the varying needs across a field. While these methods have had their successes, they also come with limitations in efficiency, environmental impact, and the precision needed for optimal crop health and yield. - read more
Welcome to a critical discussion surrounding the stability and protection of your farming enterprise. In the unpredictable world of agriculture, insurance plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the future of your business. As we delve into the intricacies of insurance coverage, we aim to establish a strong foundation for enduring success in the farming industry. - read more
Welcome to our discussion on farm insurance, a vital aspect for anyone involved in agriculture. Whether you run a smallholding or manage extensive agricultural operations, understanding your insurance coverage can make all the difference in safeguarding your livelihood. - read more
Public liability insurance is a critical component for the agricultural sector, serving as a protective measure for livestock and crop producers against the legal liabilities they face in their daily operations. This type of insurance is designed to cover the costs associated with third-party injuries or property damage that occur on farm premises or as a direct result of farming activities. - read more
In a significant ruling, Allianz Australia Insurance and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, have been fined a total of $16.8 million for providing misleading information about their travel insurance products. The Supreme Court of New South Wales found that between 2016 and 2018, the companies misrepresented the extent of coverage available to consumers, leading to potential misunderstandings about policy benefits. - read more
Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travellers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted Allianz Partners to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before travelling abroad. - read more
In 2024, medical incidents emerged as the leading cause of travel insurance claims among Australian travellers, accounting for more than 40% of all claims handled by nib Travel. This trend underscores the critical importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance to mitigate the financial risks associated with medical emergencies abroad. - read more
In a significant regulatory action, Allianz Australia and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, have been fined $16.8 million for making false and misleading statements. This penalty was imposed following an investigation by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), underscoring the critical need for transparency and honesty in the insurance sector. - read more
The Australian government has announced plans to introduce legislation that will ban life insurers from using adverse genetic test results in their underwriting processes. This move aims to eliminate genetic discrimination and encourage individuals to undergo genetic testing without fear of insurance repercussions. - read more
