Landlords Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy

Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy

Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy?w=400
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.

As noted by insurtech pioneer Scott Norton, whose alternatives have gained traction, the real issue lies in inadequate disaster preparedness. According to broker Petara Tanuvasa, premium increases are driven by insufficient measures like flood defences and firebreaks. These gaps lead insurers to elevate premiums to offset rising claims. Taxes further burden consumers, with levies such as GST, stamp duties, and fire service contributions inflating costs more.

Stacy Finnegan, COO of RepX, backed Norton’s viewpoint and stressed that local governments play a critical role in reducing home insurance claims. Enforcing building standards, avoiding development in risk-prone areas, and incorporating flood and fire-resistant requirements are crucial steps. "We stand united against severe weather patterns that heighten market volatility, instead of targeting the industry unfairly," she commented.

Additionally, some industry voices, like Tasmanian broker Greg Lewer, suggest that the real financial burdens come from other sectors. Lewer highlights the disparity between insurance and bank profits, noting that while 85 insurers collectively earned $5.9 billion last year, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia alone garnered $5.1 billion in half that time.

Given the challenges, industry stakeholders believe addressing fundamental issues rather than resorting to divestment is vital for achieving sustainable premium reductions and fostering healthy market competition.

As the debate unfolds, it remains to be seen whether policymakers will shift focus towards holistic solutions that encompass broader economic and environmental strategies, addressing taxes, disaster mitigation, and proactive local governance.

Published:Thursday, 6th Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Australia’s Insurtech Rise: Pioneering Innovation in Insurance 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 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 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 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 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


Landlords Insurance Articles

The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance
As a property investor, understanding the different types of insurance available is crucial. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or just starting, having the right coverage can safeguard your investment and provide peace of mind. With various options out there, knowing which insurance policies to choose can make all the difference in protecting your assets. - read more
Is Landlord Insurance Mandatory in Australia? What Every Landlord Should Know Is Landlord Insurance Mandatory in Australia? What Every Landlord Should Know
Landlord insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect property owners who rent out their properties. While standard home insurance covers owner-occupied homes, landlord insurance provides additional coverage for risks associated with tenants. This includes protection against damages to the property, loss of rental income, and liability claims arising from tenant-related incidents. - read more
What Does Your Landlord Insurance Truly Cover? A Comprehensive Guide What Does Your Landlord Insurance Truly Cover? A Comprehensive Guide
Landlord insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect property owners from potential risks associated with renting out their property. Unlike standard home insurance, which typically covers owner-occupied residences, landlord insurance offers tailored coverage that addresses the unique challenges faced by landlords. - read more
Comprehensive Guide: What Does Landlord Insurance Cover in Australia? Comprehensive Guide: What Does Landlord Insurance Cover in Australia?
Owning a rental property can be a great investment, but it also comes with its own set of risks and responsibilities. Protecting your investment should be a top priority, and that's where landlord insurance comes into play. It provides peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected events that could otherwise prove costly. - read more
The 5  most common Business Insurance mistakes The 5 most common Business Insurance mistakes
Looking over your insurance premiums each year, you may be wondering how you could save a dollar or two on your next premium. As an intangible asset, it can be difficult to put a value on insurance ... until something goes wrong and you need to claim. In this article, we highlight the five most common mistakes that business owners make when evaluating their insurance requirements: - read more
What Does Your Landlord Insurance Truly Cover? A Comprehensive Guide What Does Your Landlord Insurance Truly Cover? A Comprehensive Guide
Landlord insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect property owners from potential risks associated with renting out their property. Unlike standard home insurance, which typically covers owner-occupied residences, landlord insurance offers tailored coverage that addresses the unique challenges faced by landlords. - read more
Is Landlord Insurance Mandatory in Australia? What Every Landlord Should Know Is Landlord Insurance Mandatory in Australia? What Every Landlord Should Know
Landlord insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect property owners who rent out their properties. While standard home insurance covers owner-occupied homes, landlord insurance provides additional coverage for risks associated with tenants. This includes protection against damages to the property, loss of rental income, and liability claims arising from tenant-related incidents. - read more
The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance
As a property investor, understanding the different types of insurance available is crucial. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or just starting, having the right coverage can safeguard your investment and provide peace of mind. With various options out there, knowing which insurance policies to choose can make all the difference in protecting your assets. - read more


Your free insurance quote comparison starts here!
First Name:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Insurance Deductible:
the amount that an insured is required to contribute toward an insurance claim as stipulated in an insurance policy. Otherwise known as the "policy excess".