Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

ACCC Scrutinizes Major Motor Insurance Mergers

ACCC Scrutinizes Major Motor Insurance Mergers

ACCC Scrutinizes Major Motor Insurance Mergers?w=400
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has opened a detailed examination into significant mergers in the motor insurance market.
The acquisitions under review include Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) endeavor to acquire RACQ Insurance and Allianz Australia's agreement to purchase RAA Insurance.

Stakeholders are urged to present their opinions on these mergers by February 14. The ACCC has scheduled to either finalize decisions or release public statements indicating any concerns by April 24.

Industry experts predict the ACCC’s primary focus will be on IAG’s strategic move to bolster its position in Queensland, especially given RACQ's established presence as one of the state's front-runners in personal insurance products.

According to the ACCC, “IAG and RACQI both provide personal lines general insurance, including home, contents and motor vehicle insurance, and acquire ancillary repair services, including smash repair services, windscreen repair and replacement services, and building repair services.”

The primary objective of the inquiry is to assess the competitive dynamics between the involved parties, measure the influence of other service providers on the proposed new entity, and understand the implications for pricing and service quality in personal insurance lines. Additionally, the inquiry will delve into how IAG's enhanced scale might impact its dealings with supplementary service suppliers.

For the Allianz and RAA agreement, there are concerns about market overlap in key insurance sectors, including home, contents, and car insurance. The ACCC has posed related inquiries for this deal as well.

IAG's proposed $855 million acquisition aims to secure a 90% stake in RACQ's insurance segment, coupled with a potential to purchase the remaining 10% in the coming years. A long-term distribution relationship spanning 25 years is also part of the agreement.

Almost concurrently, Allianz Australia announced its $642 million commitment to acquire RAA's insurance business, which similarly involves a lengthy distribution partnership lasting 20 years.

It is noteworthy that both acquisitions exclude the roadside assistance services and other membership-based activities that RACQ and RAA are widely recognized for.

Inquiries from the ACCC also pertain to whether Queensland and South Australia should be perceived as distinct geographic markets and if the insurers are recognized for competitive pricing, innovation, or aggressive market strategies.

The ACCC is also collecting data on market shares by sectors, upcoming or recent market developments, and entry hurdles for new players.

In line with these developments, letters seeking feedback have been dispatched regarding each proposed acquisition. Detailed information and queries originate from the initial discussions, as outlined in the source content.

Published:Wednesday, 5th Feb 2025
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

Comparing Boat Insurance Policies: Which One is Right for Your Needs? Comparing Boat Insurance Policies: Which One is Right for Your Needs?
As recreational boating continues to grow in popularity, boat insurance has become an important consideration for boat owners. Boat insurance provides protection for your vessel in case of accidents, theft, or damage. However, with so many different types of policies available, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for your needs. - read more
Business Insurance in Australia: How to Ensure You're Fully Covered Business Insurance in Australia: How to Ensure You're Fully Covered
Embarking on the journey of entrepreneurship entails foreseeing and mitigating risks before they turn into setbacks for your business. In Australia, safeguarding your enterprise with adequate business insurance is not just a regulatory requirement, but also a strategic move to protect your company's future. In this article, we delve into the importance of being fully covered and guide you through the myriad of insurance options suitable for your business venture. - read more
Business Insurance Essentials: What Every Australian Entrepreneur Should Know Business Insurance Essentials: What Every Australian Entrepreneur Should Know
Running a business comes with its fair share of risks and challenges. From natural disasters to employee injuries, there's a lot that can go wrong. This is why having the right business insurance is crucial for any Australian entrepreneur. - 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
The Differences Between Public Liability and Professional Indemnity Insurance The Differences Between Public Liability and Professional Indemnity Insurance
In the dynamic world of commerce, Australian businesses face a plethora of risks daily. Business insurance serves as a safeguard, ensuring that the unforeseen does not hinder the stability and growth of an enterprise. Whether it’s a startup or a seasoned corporation, understanding and selecting the appropriate insurance coverage is crucial for resilience and longevity. - read more
The Role of Life Insurance in Your Overall Financial Strategy The Role of Life Insurance in Your Overall Financial Strategy
Financial planning plays a pivotal role in managing your economic resources effectively. By assessing your income, expenses, and goals, you can create a plan that helps achieve financial security. A comprehensive financial plan covers saving, investing, budgeting, and managing liabilities to secure your future. - read more
Unlocking the Best Business Insurance: A Guide for Aussie Entrepreneurs Unlocking the Best Business Insurance: A Guide for Aussie Entrepreneurs
Welcome to the guide designed to navigate Australian entrepreneurs through the intricate world of business insurance. In an era where risks are as diverse as they are frequent, choosing the right insurance is not just prudent—it's a critical element of sustaining and growing your enterprise. - read more
Navigating Business Interruption Insurance: A Lifeline for SMEs Navigating Business Interruption Insurance: A Lifeline for SMEs
Understanding the safeguards available to protect businesses during times of unexpected adversity is crucial, especially for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Chief among these safeguards is business interruption insurance. This form of coverage is designed to offer financial assistance to businesses that endure losses due to unforeseeable disruptions. - read more
How to Compare Truck Insurance Policies in Australia: A Guide for Drivers How to Compare Truck Insurance Policies in Australia: A Guide for Drivers
When it comes to navigating the sprawling roads of Australia, truck drivers bear a significant responsibility. Not only are they tasked with the safe transportation of goods across vast distances, but they must also protect themselves and their vehicles from the unforeseeable. This is where the crucial role of truck insurance comes into play, providing a safety net that can make all the difference in the face of adversity. - read more
Common Cyber Threats Facing Small Businesses and How Insurance Can Help Common Cyber Threats Facing Small Businesses and How Insurance Can Help
In today's digital age, cybersecurity has become a critical factor for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses, in particular, are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals due to their perceived vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity involves implementing measures to protect computer systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. Ensuring robust cybersecurity can significantly reduce the risks of data breaches, ransomware, and other cyber threats that could disrupt business operations. - 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
Exclusion:
Specific conditions or circumstances for which the insurance policy does not provide coverage.