ACT Targets Rising Insurance Costs with Comprehensive Inquiry

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.

Driven by the Legislative Assembly’s Standing Committee on Economics, Industry, and Recreation, the inquiry will explore several pivotal issues, including how insurance costs in the ACT measure against those in other regions, with a keen focus on workers' compensation and climate change impacts. "We are particularly interested in suggestions for improving the insurance sector to make it easier for small businesses and organisations to operate in the ACT," said committee chair Taimus Werner-Gibbings.

The investigation is set to delve into important topics like public liability claim trends, litigation behaviors influencing premium costs, and the challenges non-governmental and community projects face in accessing insurance coverage.

Part of the inquiry will also evaluate how insurance entities assess risks and consider public and private sector efforts in risk reduction. This is especially pertinent for community sports, recreation, and the creative arts when using government venues and facilities, as these requirements significantly affect their operations.

Additionally, the inquiry will examine models for offering public sector policies to community organizations, extending the scope to those that operate across state lines or on an international level.

According to the Canberra Business Chamber, there’s been a pressing need for action regarding insurance costs, which have been soaring to levels that many companies find unsustainable. "Increases in insurance premiums ultimately translate into price increases for customers and make it harder for businesses to operate sustainably," remarked CEO Greg Harford.

The chamber highlighted in its September-quarter Canberra Business Beat report that 44% of surveyed businesses experienced premium hikes exceeding 20% over two years, with these increases surpassing inflation rates.

Mr. Harford pointed out that although insurance costs are generally concerning, workers' compensation in the ACT stands out as particularly troublesome. "The chamber is hearing about huge price hikes for workers’ compensation insurance, and members report that it is substantially more expensive here in the ACT than in NSW or other jurisdictions," he added, noting the competitive disadvantage this creates for ACT-based businesses compared to those in other states.

Submissions for the inquiry are open until March 14, with the committee yet to announce when the findings will be reported.

The source of this information is from previous reports and statements, including insights from Greg Harford of the Canberra Business Chamber.

Published:Tuesday, 28th Jan 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Soft Conditions Persist in Australia's Commercial Insurance Market Through H1 2026

27 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia's commercial insurance market has maintained its soft stance throughout the first half of 2026, characterized by competitive pricing and expanded insurer capacity. This trend is largely attributed to improved insurer profitability, stabilized reinsurance conditions, and a global surplus of capital, all contributing to downward pressure on premiums across various insurance classes. - read more

Regulators Call for Action on TPD Insurance Sustainability Amid Rising Mental Health Claims

27 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) have jointly raised concerns regarding the sustainability of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance, particularly in light of the increasing prevalence and complexity of mental health-related claims. - read more

Key Takeaways from the 2026-27 Federal Budget for Australia's Insurance Industry

27 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The 2026-27 Federal Budget, presented by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on May 12, introduces several measures with significant implications for the Australian insurance industry. These initiatives aim to address pressing issues such as property insurance costs, underinsurance, and regulatory frameworks, while also highlighting areas where further action is needed. - read more

Australia's Non-Life Insurance Sector Reports Significant Revenue Growth

19 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia's non-life insurance industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving an 11.1% increase in revenue for the fiscal year ending 30 June 2025. This growth has propelled the sector's total insurance revenue to approximately AUD 77.7 billion, underscoring the industry's capacity to navigate a volatile economic landscape. - read more

ACCC Scrutinises IAG's Proposed Acquisition of RAC Insurance

19 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has escalated its examination of Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) proposed acquisition of RAC Insurance (RACI) to a Phase 2 review. This decision reflects concerns that the transaction could substantially lessen competition within Western Australia's insurance market. - read more

Click for more Insurance News