Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Simplifying Insurance Advice: Industry and Consumers Aligned

Simplifying Insurance Advice: Industry and Consumers Aligned

Simplifying Insurance Advice: Industry and Consumers Aligned?w=400
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is urging a revision of existing advice regulations to significantly improve customer interaction quality.
This push comes ahead of an anticipated wave of reforms by the federal government expected to ease the delivery of simple advice within the insurance sector.

In a noteworthy development, a draft legislation is set to be unveiled, which could transform the way industry professionals dispense advice, particularly in simplifying the advisory framework to better meet customer needs. "We are supportive in principle of proposals that would have the potential to enhance the quality of interactions between insurers and consumers," an ICA spokesperson stated today, reiterating to insuranceNEWS.com.au the council's stance on refining advisory practices.

The current regulatory environment, the ICA suggests, hampers insurers by restricting their ability to offer advice specifically tailored to individual client needs and inquiries. This legislative environment, they argue, stands in the way of providing bespoke product advice, leading to a call for change. The desire for law reform aligning product advice with consumer circumstances was initially spurred when Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones presented the government's anticipated reforms from the Quality of Advice Review the previous year.

The proposed legislation seeks to bring clarity on the "simple advice" model, a concept aimed at differentiating it from existing advisory roles. This effort aligns with establishing a new class of advisers, primarily drawn from employees of insurers and financial service providers, trained specifically for such duties. These advisers will receive distinctive training to issue straightforward advice without imposing traditional fees or commission structures.

To contextualize, both general and life insurers, under current stipulations, are confined to dispensing general advice only, limiting their reach in personalized recommendations. The evolving policy discourse suggests a shift toward a model where personal interaction becomes more significant, potentially augmenting consumer trust and the tailoring of insurance products to individual lifestyles.

As depicted in the original write-up from insuranceNEWS.com.au, there’s a shared optimism about these impending changes enhancing the delivery of streamlined guidance while maintaining vigorous checks on advisory protocols. If successful, the reform could signify a paradigm shift in how both industry professionals and consumers understand insurance guidance, paving a path for modernized, client-centered advice channels. The continued dialogue around these policy shifts marks essential progress in aligning industry capabilities with consumer expectation frameworks.

Published:Wednesday, 27th Nov 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Asbestos Scare Leaves Hospitality Business Uninsured Asbestos Scare Leaves Hospitality Business Uninsured
04 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The discovery of asbestos-contaminated mulch in a Sydney park led to the cancellation of a festival, resulting in significant financial losses for a hospitality business. Despite these setbacks, the company's claim for coverage under its business interruption (BI) policy was rejected. - read more
Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a groundbreaking decision by the NSW Personal Injury Commission, an insurer has been directed to cover the costs of dog walking services for a car crash victim. The commission ruled that these services classify as domestic assistance under the state’s Motor Accident Injuries Act. This case could pave the way for broader interpretations of 'attendant care services' for claimants. - read more
Extreme Weather Drives $1.8 Billion in First Half Losses for Australian Insurers Extreme Weather Drives $1.8 Billion in First Half Losses for Australian Insurers
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Extreme weather events in Australia have resulted in significant financial impacts for insurers, tallying $1.83 billion in losses during the first half of the year. This comes as insurance companies gear up for further claims linked to ongoing severe weather in New South Wales. - read more
ClearView Names New Underwriting Head Amidst Strategic Changes ClearView Names New Underwriting Head Amidst Strategic Changes
30 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

ASX-listed life insurer ClearView has announced the appointment of Peter Tilocca as Head of Underwriting, coinciding with key updates to its underwriting standards and definitions. Tilocca's extensive two-decade career in Australian underwriting includes leadership roles at Zurich, Noble Oak, One Path Life, and RGA Australia. His new role with ClearView commenced on 30 June. - read more
Ombudsman Supports Theft Claimant in Home Business Coverage Dispute Ombudsman Supports Theft Claimant in Home Business Coverage Dispute
30 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

A recent case has seen a policyholder triumph over her insurer after the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) ruled in her favour following a contentious dispute regarding home business operations. The controversy arose when the woman's theft claim was denied by her insurance provider, IAG, over allegations of fraudulent misrepresentation about the use of her rental property. - read more


Insurance Articles

Understanding Home Insurance Coverage Options: What Protects Your Property? Understanding Home Insurance Coverage Options: What Protects Your Property?
Home insurance is a critical element for any Australian homeowner, providing financial protection against an array of unexpected events. Essentially, it's a policy that covers losses and damages to an individual's residence, along with furnishings and other assets in the home. This type of insurance also offers liability coverage against accidents in the home or on the property. - read more
The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Life Insurance in Australia The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Life Insurance in Australia
Life insurance is a contract between an individual and an insurance company. The insurer promises to pay a designated beneficiary a sum of money upon the death of the insured person. - read more
Deciphering Policy Jargon: A Beginner's Guide to Australian Insurance Terms Deciphering Policy Jargon: A Beginner's Guide to Australian Insurance Terms
Welcome to the world of insurance in Australia - a realm where jargon often clouds the true meaning of policies, leaving many bewildered. But fret not! This guide is here to shine a light through the haze, demystifying the language that stands between you and informed insurance decisions. Whether you're starting a business, buying a home, or simply safeguarding your family's future, understanding insurance terminology is pivotal. - read more
How to Make a Claim on Your Boat Insurance Policy in Australia How to Make a Claim on Your Boat Insurance Policy in Australia
Boat insurance claims are an important aspect of owning a boat, as accidents and damages can happen unexpectedly. It is essential to understand the boat insurance claim process in Australia, as it can be complex and overwhelming at times. - read more
Comparing Comprehensive, Third Party, and Third Party Fire and Theft: Which Car Insurance is Right for You? Comparing Comprehensive, Third Party, and Third Party Fire and Theft: Which Car Insurance is Right for You?
Car insurance is a crucial aspect of vehicle ownership in Australia, offering protection and peace of mind in the event of an accident or other unforeseen circumstances. However, with numerous options available on the market, choosing the right policy can be overwhelming. In this article, we'll explore the main types of car insurance available to help you understand your choices. - read more
Boat Insurance: How a Specialist Broker Can Save You Time, Money, and Hassle Boat Insurance: How a Specialist Broker Can Save You Time, Money, and Hassle
Boating can be an enjoyable pastime, but it also comes with risks. From accidents to theft, unexpected events can take a toll on your finances and boat. This is where boat insurance comes in. Boat insurance provides financial protection in the case of accidents, theft, or other damage to your vessel. - read more
Starting Out: How to Pick the Right Insurance As a Young Professional in Australia Starting Out: How to Pick the Right Insurance As a Young Professional in Australia
Welcome to the journey of safeguarding your future! As a young professional in Australia, you're likely juggling the demands of a burgeoning career with personal goals and financial responsibilities. Navigating the world of insurance is critical in creating a safety net around these aspirations. But why exactly is insurance a cornerstone for those entering the professional realm, and how do you discern which coverage best aligns with your unique pathway? - read more
How to Save Money on Your Boat Insurance Premiums How to Save Money on Your Boat Insurance Premiums
Boat ownership comes with many responsibilities, including obtaining adequate insurance coverage. However, as with any type of insurance, boat insurance premiums can quickly become costly. It's essential to save as much as possible on your policy without sacrificing the necessary protection it provides. - read more
The Comprehensive Comparison: Evaluating Different Insurance Providers in Australia The Comprehensive Comparison: Evaluating Different Insurance Providers in Australia
Welcome to the comprehensive guide on evaluating different insurance providers in Australia. Navigating through the plethora of insurance options can be overwhelming. With a market full of competing insurers, choosing the right provider is critical to ensuring ample protection for your assets, health, and peace of mind. This introduction aims to underscore the significance of this decision for Australian consumers. - read more
Family Planning: Exploring Life Insurance Options for New Parents Family Planning: Exploring Life Insurance Options for New Parents
Stepping into parenthood comes with a myriad of responsibilities, one of which includes securing your family's financial future. Life insurance serves as a financial cornerstone for young professionals who are navigating the complexities of family planning. Recognizing the significance of the role insurance plays can empower new parents to make informed decisions that corroborate their family's safety and well-being. - 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
Claim Adjuster:
An insurance professional who investigates and evaluates insurance claims to determine the amount the insurance company should pay.