Business Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

icare Ushers in Major Changes Starting Next Week

icare Ushers in Major Changes Starting Next Week

icare Ushers in Major Changes Starting Next Week?w=400

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.

Commencing on October 8, icare is gearing up for significant structural changes aimed at streamlining operations and boosting efficiency.
This initiative comes in response to a comprehensive Operational Expenditure Review conducted by NSW Treasury, which outlines 14 pivotal findings to help reduce the state's insurer's service costs by 5%.

NSW Treasury's review sheds light on a complex legacy of governance, culture, and accountability issues within icare. The review highlights the need for proactive management and closer collaboration between NSW Treasury, icare, and the State Insurance Regulatory Authority to establish an enhanced reporting framework that supports greater accountability.

The review has been seen as a guiding document for icare’s next phase. According to a spokesperson for icare, "This is an opportunity to deepen our commitment to transformation and address the recommendations comprehensively. Our internal initiatives already indicate that we can achieve more than a 5% reduction in core operational expenses."

Work Health and Safety Minister Sophie Cotsis emphasized the necessity of these changes to restore public confidence in icare. "Transparency and operational efficiency are paramount. This review will serve as a road map to elevate accountability within icare and across the state insurance system," she said.

A noteworthy alteration includes amendments to the State Insurance and Care Governance Act 2015. These changes are intended to bolster the accountability and transparency of icare's business performance. A significant shift will see icare's CEO no longer serving on the board, and the Secretary of the Treasury Department joining the board. Additionally, CEO appointments will now require ministerial approval.

icare has had a challenging few months, including the July departure of CEO Richard Harding. The insurer, which handles around 80,000 claims annually for about four million workers, is actively searching for a new CEO. In the interim, focused efforts are being made to save approximately $23 million a year. Talks with union representatives and staff are underway, with potential impacts on up to 130 jobs among icare’s approximately 1,800 employees.

Cotsis has also directed a letter to icare chair John Robertson seeking detailed plans on how the review's findings will be implemented. "Thorough and clear responses will be necessary to navigate these changes effectively," she added.

The information and insights shared in this article originate from a similar piece published on insuranceNEWS.com.au, ensuring that all steps are taken to offer a fresh perspective while keeping you informed of the pivotal structural changes within icare.

Published:Tuesday, 1st Oct 2024
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

Debate Intensifies Over Proposed Legal Fee Caps in Australian Insurance
Debate Intensifies Over Proposed Legal Fee Caps in Australian Insurance
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian insurance sector is currently witnessing a significant debate over the Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) proposal to implement caps on legal fees associated with civil liability claims. This initiative aims to address the rising insurance premiums that have been a concern for small to medium business owners across the nation. - read more
Premium Affordability and Cybersecurity Emerge as Top Challenges for Australian Insurers
Premium Affordability and Cybersecurity Emerge as Top Challenges for Australian Insurers
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In the dynamic landscape of the Australian insurance industry, a recent survey conducted by Gallagher Bassett has shed light on the primary challenges confronting insurers in 2026. The findings underscore a significant reshaping of priorities, with premium affordability, cybersecurity, and labour shortages emerging as the most pressing concerns. - read more
Australian Commercial Insurance Rates Experience Significant Decline in Late 2025
Australian Commercial Insurance Rates Experience Significant Decline in Late 2025
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian commercial insurance sector has witnessed a notable shift, with rates experiencing a significant decline in the fourth quarter of 2025. According to Marsh's latest Global Insurance Market Index, commercial insurance prices in Australia dropped by 12% during this period, marking the steepest decrease among the eight regions monitored by the index. - read more
Javln Strengthens Australian Market Position with Organiseit Acquisition
Javln Strengthens Australian Market Position with Organiseit Acquisition
01 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the Australian insurance sector, New Zealand-based insurtech company Javln has acquired Organiseit, a prominent Australian document management system provider. This acquisition follows Javln's successful $6 million capital raise in October, earmarked for accelerating its growth strategy and expanding its footprint in Australia. - read more
Insurance Council Declares Catastrophe as Victoria Bushfires Intensify
Insurance Council Declares Catastrophe as Victoria Bushfires Intensify
01 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has declared an insurance catastrophe in response to the escalating bushfires across Victoria, underscoring the profound impact of climate change on the nation's insurance landscape. Since January 7, bushfires have ravaged over 400,000 hectares of land, leading to a surge in insurance claims and raising alarms about the increasing frequency and severity of such events. - read more
Click for more Insurance News


Business Insurance Articles

The Importance of Adequate Insurance Coverage for Your Small Business
The Importance of Adequate Insurance Coverage for Your Small Business
For small businesses, navigating the intricacies of sustainability is a critical task that can be made more manageable through the prudent use of business insurance. Understandably, many small business owners prioritize immediate operational concerns over seemingly discrete matters like insurance. However, as we will explore, insurance is not a mere formality—it's a vital backbone to enduring success. - read more
Avoiding Underinsurance: How to Adequately Cover Your Growing Business
Avoiding Underinsurance: How to Adequately Cover Your Growing Business
When it comes to protecting the vitality and financial health of a growing business, insurance is a keystone. Yet, amidst the day-to-day hustle of driving your business forward, it's surprisingly easy to overlook the adequacy of your insurance policies - a misstep that can lead to the perilous state of underinsurance. In this article, we will delve into the essential knowledge and strategies to ensure your business is sufficiently covered, shielding it from unexpected setbacks and losses. - read more
Common Insurance Mistakes Small Business Owners Should Avoid
Common Insurance Mistakes Small Business Owners Should Avoid
Running a small business in Australia comes with its unique set of challenges and risks. One crucial aspect that every small business owner must consider is liability insurance. Liability insurance is designed to protect businesses from various claims and lawsuits that can arise in the course of their operations. Whether it's a customer slipping and falling in a store or a disgruntled employee filing a lawsuit, having the right insurance can provide a financial safety net. - read more
How to Customize Your Business Insurance to Fit Your Company’s Needs
How to Customize Your Business Insurance to Fit Your Company’s Needs
Business insurance is a type of coverage that protects your company from financial losses that may occur during regular operations. These losses could be due to a variety of risks like property damage, legal liability, or employee-related incidents. - read more
Essential Tips to Reduce Your Business Insurance Premiums in Australia
Essential Tips to Reduce Your Business Insurance Premiums in Australia
As a business owner in Australia, protecting your venture with adequate insurance is a non-negotiable aspect of risk management. The right business insurance acts as a safety net, guarding against unforeseen events that could otherwise derail your hard-earned progress. However, it's not uncommon for insurance premiums to dig deep into your cash reserves, challenging the balance between protection and profitability. - read more

Knowledgebase
Public Liability Insurance:
Insurance which provides protection against liability to third parties.

Quick Links: | Business Insurance | Business Insurance Quotes | Commercial Insurance | Public Liability Insurance | Small Business Insurance | Professional Indemnity Insurance | Business Insurance Comparison | Cyber Insurance | Business Interruption Insurance | Business Insurance Australia | Workers Compensation Insurance
This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.
IMPORTANT: We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party brokers, insurers, and lenders. We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should independently verify the credentials and licensing of any adviser or provider you engage. Visit the ASIC website for further information.