- Storm claims surge shows why SMEs need to test their cover
Fresh industry updates on severe weather claims are a reminder that storm, flood and cyclone losses are no longer rare planning scenarios for Australian small and medium businesses.
- New ransomware reporting rules put SME cyber cover under scrutiny
Australia's mandatory ransomware payment reporting regime is now a practical compliance issue for many business owners, not just a technology concern. Under the national cyber security reforms, entities above the relevant annual turnover threshold must report certain ransomware and cyber extortion payments within a short statutory timeframe.
- What Strong Insurer Results Mean for Business Insurance Renewals
Latest general insurance performance data from APRA points to an industry that remains financially resilient, with insurers benefiting from disciplined underwriting, investment income and a continued focus on pricing risk accurately.
- What Rising Insurance Disputes Mean for Small Businesses
Recent industry reporting on the latest insurance complaints environment points to a clear message for Australian small businesses: the hardest part of insurance is often not buying a policy, but relying on it when something goes wrong.
- Why SMEs should double-check AI insurance advice
Australian businesses are increasingly using AI tools to research products, shortlist providers and understand policy options. That convenience now comes with a clear warning for small business owners: not every insurance answer surfaced by AI search is coming from a licensed, accountable or locally relevant source.
- Lifeline Breach Puts Cyber Cover Back on the SME Agenda
A reported data breach involving Lifeline Australia has renewed attention on a widening protection gap in the Australian cyber insurance market.
- Could NSW Levy Reform Make Insurance More Affordable for Small Business?
New analysis released by the Insurance Council of Australia has put renewed attention on a major cost pressure for NSW businesses: the emergency services levy, commonly known as the ESL.
- What IAG’s Modular Shelter Move Means for SMEs
IAG’s latest investment through Firemark Ventures is a useful signal for Australian business owners: disaster recovery is no longer just about paying claims after the event. It is increasingly about helping people and enterprises stay operational, connected and on-site while rebuilding happens around them.
- New Crane Cover Highlights the Insurance Gap for High-Risk Trades
A new specialist insurance product for Australian crane and rigging operators is a timely reminder that not every business fits neatly into a standard policy box.
- IAG Resolves $4 Billion Greensill Lawsuit
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has reached a confidential settlement in the $4 billion lawsuit initiated by Greensill Bank AG and its insolvency administrator. This legal action stemmed from disputes over insurance coverage related to Greensill's financial products.
- Decline in Market Share for Australian Insurers' Business Packages
A recent analysis by Macquarie has revealed a significant decline in the domestic business package market share held by Australian insurers, dropping to approximately 48% in the fiscal year 2025 from nearly 67% a decade ago.
- ACCC Halts IAG's Bid to Acquire RAC WA's Insurance Arm
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed the proposed acquisition of RAC WA's insurance operations by Insurance Australia Group (IAG).
- BizCover and Zurich Collaborate to Enhance Professional Indemnity Insurance for SMEs
BizCover, an online business insurance platform, has expanded its professional indemnity (PI) insurance offerings through a new distribution agreement with Zurich Australia. This partnership enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with annual revenues under $7.
- Zurich Introduces AI-Powered Cyber Insurance Solution for Australian Businesses
Zurich Financial Services Australia has unveiled 'Prime One', a cutting-edge cyber insurance product designed to bolster the digital resilience of Australian businesses.
- Vero's 2026 SME Insurance Index Uncovers Critical Risk Management Gaps in Australian Small Businesses
Vero's recently released 2026 SME Insurance Index has brought to light significant disparities in risk management practices between small and large Australian businesses.
- Australian Commercial Insurance Market Maintains Soft Conditions Through First Half of 2026
The Australian commercial insurance landscape has sustained its soft market conditions through the first half of 2026, characterised by competitive pricing, expanded underwriting capacity, and heightened competition among insurers. This environment presents both opportunities and considerations for businesses seeking to optimise their insurance portfolios.
- EML Group's Strategic Acquisition of Guild Insurance to Drive Growth and Innovation
In a strategic move poised to reshape the Australian insurance landscape, EML Group has acquired a majority stake in Guild Insurance. This partnership is set to unlock new growth opportunities and expedite the development of technological and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities within the sector.
- IAG Enhances Coverage by Integrating RACQ Insurance into 2026 Reinsurance Program
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has successfully integrated RACQ Insurance into its 2026 catastrophe reinsurance program. This strategic move is designed to bolster the company's capacity to manage catastrophic events and provide enhanced coverage for Australian policyholders.
- Rising Legal Costs and Regulatory Hurdles Escalate Small Business Insurance Premiums
Small businesses across Australia are grappling with a significant surge in insurance premiums, with rates escalating by up to 60% since 2019. The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) attributes this sharp increase to outdated liability laws, escalating legal expenses, and cumbersome government regulations.
- Australian SMEs Face Escalating Risks from Intensifying Extreme Weather Events
Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather events, with recent data indicating a significant rise in related insurance claims. According to BizCover, a leading insurance comparison site, the proportion of claims attributed to severe weather events escalated from 9.
- ACCC Halts IAG's Bid to Acquire RAC WA's Insurance Division
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed the proposed acquisition of RAC WA's insurance operations by Insurance Australia Group (IAG).
- Coalition Enhances Cyber Insurance Coverage Amid Rising Email Breaches
In response to the escalating threat of email-based cyber attacks, insurance provider Coalition has announced an increase in its standard cyber crime coverage for Australian policyholders to $500,000.
- ACCC Halts IAG's Bid to Acquire RAC WA's Insurance Division
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed the proposed acquisition of RAC WA's insurance operations by Insurance Australia Group (IAG).
- New Cyber Insurance Solution for Australian SMEs: Cowbell and Zurich's Prime One
In a significant development for Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Cowbell, in partnership with Zurich Australian Insurance, has launched 'Prime One', a standalone cyber insurance program designed specifically for businesses with annual turnovers up to AUD $100 million.
- Strengthening Small Business Resilience: ICA's Call for Comprehensive Insurance Reforms
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently submitted four comprehensive proposals to the Parliamentary Joint Committee's inquiry into small business insurance, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms in areas such as insurance taxation, climate resilience, risk education, workplace mental health, and cyber resilience.
- Chubb Enhances Professional Indemnity Insurance Access for Australian Businesses
Chubb Insurance Australia Ltd. has expanded its suite of offerings by introducing professional indemnity products on the client trading platform of Steadfast Group Ltd., Australia's largest general insurance broker network. This strategic move aims to provide Australian businesses with enhanced access to comprehensive professional indemnity coverage.
- Rising Insurance Premiums and Declining Profits in Australia
Recent findings from KPMG's annual review of the general insurance industry reveal a concerning trend for Australian businesses: insurance premiums are on the rise, while industry profits are experiencing a downturn. This development is largely attributed to the escalating costs associated with natural disasters.
- Essential Business Insurance Trends for Australian SMEs in 2026
As Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) approach 2026, the business insurance landscape is undergoing significant transformations. Understanding these emerging trends is vital for SMEs to ensure adequate protection and compliance. Here are five key insurance trends shaping the SME sector:
- MetLife Calls on Advisers to Reevaluate Business Insurance for SMEs
MetLife Australia has highlighted a critical concern: a significant number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) lack appropriate insurance coverage, posing risks to both business continuity and the financial security of owners and employees.
- Deloitte's 2026 Insurance Predictions: Key Trends Shaping the Future
As Australia's insurance industry stands on the cusp of significant transformation, Deloitte's latest report, 'Insurance Predictions 2026,' offers a comprehensive analysis of the key trends poised to reshape the sector. The report underscores the imperative for insurers to adapt to rapid technological advancements, escalating climate risks, and evolving regulatory landscapes.
- APRA Warns of Heightened Risks in Australia's Insurance Industry
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has recently issued a cautionary statement regarding the elevated risks confronting the nation's insurance sector. This alert underscores the necessity for insurers to bolster their resilience against a backdrop of climate hazards, cyber incidents, and global geopolitical tensions.
- Private Health Insurance Premiums Set to Increase by 4.41% in April 2026
Australian private health insurance policyholders are set to experience a significant premium increase, with rates rising by an average of 4.41% from April 2026. This adjustment marks the most substantial hike since 2017, reflecting the escalating costs associated with medical and hospital services.
- Debate Intensifies Over Proposed Legal Fee Caps in Australian Insurance
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.
- Premium Affordability and Cybersecurity Emerge as Top Challenges for Australian Insurers
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.
- Australian Commercial Insurance Rates Experience Significant Decline in Late 2025
The Australian commercial insurance sector has witnessed a notable shift, with rates experiencing a significant decline in the fourth quarter of 2025.
- Javln Strengthens Australian Market Position with Organiseit Acquisition
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.
- Insurance Council Declares Catastrophe as Victoria Bushfires Intensify
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.
- ASIC Takes Legal Action Against Budget Direct for Alleged Misleading Discounts
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced legal proceedings against Auto & General, the parent company of Budget Direct, alleging that the insurer engaged in misleading conduct regarding promised discounts to customers.
- IAG's Strategic Expansion: 90% Acquisition of RACQ Insurance
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has announced the acquisition of a 90% stake in RACQ Insurance for $855 million. This strategic move is expected to bolster IAG's gross written premiums by approximately $1.3 billion, reinforcing its position in the Australian insurance market.
- Suncorp's Impressive 89% Profit Increase in H1 2025
Suncorp Group has reported a remarkable 89% increase in net profit for the first half of 2025, with earnings per share reaching A$86.56. This substantial growth reflects the company's strong performance in the Australian insurance sector.
- Gallagher Bassett's Mobile Case Managers Enhance NSW Workers' Compensation
Gallagher Bassett has introduced mobile case managers in New South Wales, aiming to enhance workers' compensation services by providing on-site support to injured workers. This initiative builds upon a successful model implemented in South Australia over the past decade.
- Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Cyber and AI Risk Readiness
Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey have raised concerns about the preparedness of Australian insurers in managing emerging risks, particularly those associated with cyber threats and artificial intelligence (AI).
- Rising Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian Businesses
Businesses across New South Wales are grappling with substantial increases in insurance premiums, prompting calls for urgent reforms to alleviate financial pressures.
- AUB Group's Strategic Acquisition of Prestige Marks Global Growth
In a strategic move to bolster its international footprint, AUB Group, a prominent Australian insurance broker, has announced the acquisition of UK-based Prestige for $432 million. This acquisition signifies a pivotal step in AUB Group's global expansion strategy, enhancing its presence in the international insurance market.
- ACCC Halts IAG's Proposed Acquisition of RAC Insurance
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) proposed $1.35 billion acquisition of RAC Insurance. The regulator's decision is rooted in concerns that the merger could substantially reduce competition in Western Australia's home and motor insurance markets.
- Business NSW Advocates for Urgent Insurance Reforms to Alleviate Rising Premiums
Business NSW, the leading business advocacy group in New South Wales, has raised alarms over the escalating insurance premiums that are placing significant financial strain on businesses across the state.
- Australian and New Zealand Insurers Leverage AI to Transform Services
Insurance companies across Australia and New Zealand are increasingly investing in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies as part of their digital transformation strategies. This shift aims to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer service, and strengthen risk management practices.
- IAG CEO Predicts Ongoing Insurance Premium Rises Amid Easing Inflation
Australians should brace for continued increases in insurance premiums, albeit at a moderated pace, according to Nick Hawkins, CEO of Insurance Australia Group (IAG). The company recently reported a significant 91% rise in net profit for the first half of the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, reaching $778 million.
- Climate Change's Impact on Rising Home Insurance Premiums in Australia
Insurance Australia Group (IAG), a leading insurer in Australia, has highlighted the significant role of climate change in driving up home insurance premiums. The company reports that the increasing frequency and severity of weather events are major factors contributing to these rising costs. ([abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-11-04/climate-change-plays-role-in-growing-home-insurance-iag-warns/105964560?utm_source=openai))
- Australian Insurers Integrate AI Innovations to Transform Services
Insurance companies across Australia and New Zealand are increasingly investing in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to drive digital transformation and enhance service delivery. This strategic shift aims to improve efficiency, customer interactions, and risk management practices. ([newshub.medianet.com.au](https://newshub.medianet.com.au/2025/01/insurers-embrace-ai-innovations-in-australia-new-zealand/84215/?utm_source=openai))
- Emerging Challenges Elevate Insurance Risks for Australian Businesses
Australian businesses are currently navigating a complex and evolving risk landscape, marked by increased exposures across various domains. A recent report from Gallagher highlights several key areas contributing to this heightened risk environment.
- Australian Insurers Achieve Significant Profit Growth Amid Rising Premiums
Australia's insurance industry has reported an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion for 2024, a substantial increase from the five-year average of $2 billion, according to KPMG's annual review. This surge is attributed to premium hikes and a year with fewer significant weather events.
- Rising Insurance Risk Pressures Challenge Australian Businesses
Australian businesses are confronting heightened insurance risk pressures stemming from increased litigation, technological advancements, supply chain disruptions, catastrophic events, and geopolitical tensions. A recent report from Gallagher underscores the importance of risk insights and awareness for organizations preparing for insurance renewals.
- IAG's Strategic Moves Propel Profit Forecast Upward
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has recently announced an optimistic upgrade to its financial guidance for the fiscal year 2026, projecting a 10% increase in gross written premium (GWP) and an insurance profit ranging between $1.55 billion and $1.75 billion.
- Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Emerging Risk Preparedness
Recent findings from PwC's Insurance Banana Skins Survey indicate that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in terms of preparedness for emerging risks, particularly in areas such as cyber threats and artificial intelligence (AI).
- Australian Insurers Falling Behind in Cyber and AI Risk Readiness
In an era where digital threats are escalating, Australian insurers are reportedly less prepared to manage risks associated with cyber threats and artificial intelligence (AI) compared to their global counterparts. This insight emerges from the latest PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey, which assesses the industry's readiness to tackle emerging challenges.
- Australian Insurance Market Set for Significant Growth by 2029
Australia's general insurance market is on a trajectory of steady expansion, with projections indicating that total direct written premiums (DWP) will reach $144.5 billion by 2029. This growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8%, as analysed by data and analytics firm GlobalData.
- Australian SMEs Advocate for Reforms Amid Escalating Insurance Premiums
Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) across Australia are facing mounting financial pressures due to soaring insurance premiums.
- QBE Insurance Faces Market Challenges as Premium Growth Slows
QBE Insurance Group, Australia's largest insurer by market value, recently experienced a significant decline in its share price, reaching a seven-month low. This downturn is primarily attributed to a noticeable slowdown in the company's premium rate growth during the third quarter of the 2025 fiscal year.
- Surge in Profits for Australian Insurers Amid Rising Premiums
In 2024, Australia's insurance industry reported a collective after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a significant increase from the five-year average of $2 billion. This surge is attributed to substantial premium hikes and a relatively quiet year for natural disasters.
- Navigating the Rising Insurance Risk Landscape for Australian Businesses
Australian businesses are currently facing heightened insurance risk pressures stemming from various factors, including increased litigation, technological advancements, supply chain disruptions, catastrophic events, and geopolitical tensions. Understanding these elements is crucial for businesses preparing for insurance renewals and risk management strategies.
- QBE Insurance Faces Market Challenges as Premium Growth Slows
QBE Insurance Group, Australia's largest insurer by market value, recently experienced a significant decline in its share price, reaching a seven-month low. This downturn is primarily attributed to a noticeable slowdown in the company's premium rate growth during the third quarter of the 2025 fiscal year.
- Climate Change's Impact on Rising Home Insurance Premiums in Australia
Insurance Australia Group (IAG), a leading insurer in Australia, has highlighted the significant role of climate change in driving up home insurance premiums. The company reports that the increasing frequency and severity of weather events are major factors contributing to these rising costs.
- Australian Insurers' Preparedness for Emerging Risks Falls Short
Recent findings from PwC's Insurance Banana Skins Survey indicate that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in terms of preparedness for emerging risks, particularly in areas such as cyber threats and artificial intelligence (AI).
- Allianz Australia's Strategic Expansion: RAA Insurance Acquisition
In a significant move within the Australian insurance sector, Allianz Australia has successfully completed the acquisition of RAA Insurance for $642 million. This strategic acquisition, approved by the competition regulator on June 12, 2025, marks a substantial expansion of Allianz's footprint in the South Australian market.
- Australian Parliament's Inquiry into Small Business Insurance: What It Means for You
The Australian Parliament has initiated a comprehensive inquiry into the provision, regulation, and pricing of modern insurance products for small businesses and not-for-profit organisations. Announced on October 29, 2025, this inquiry aims to address critical issues affecting the insurance landscape for small enterprises across the nation.
- ASIC's $16.8 Million Penalty on Allianz Australia: A Wake-Up Call for the Insurance Industry
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has imposed a $16.8 million fine on Allianz Australia and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, for making false and misleading statements regarding travel insurance products.
- Surge in Cyber Insurance Adoption Among Australian Businesses
In the past year, BizCover, a leading small business insurance provider, has reported an almost 50% rise in sales of cyber liability insurance. This significant uptick underscores the escalating awareness and concern among Australian businesses regarding cyber threats.
- EQT's Bold Move: AUB Group's Potential Acquisition and Its Implications
In a significant development within Australia's insurance sector, Swedish private equity firm EQT has proposed a takeover of AUB Group, valuing the insurance broking company at A$5.25 billion. This offer represents a 25.
- State Taxes Drive Up Insurance Costs for Australian Small Businesses
A recent report by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has highlighted a concerning trend: small businesses across Australia are facing insurance premium increases of up to 30% due to taxes and levies imposed by state and territory governments.
- Celebrating Excellence: Finalists Announced for the 21st Australian Insurance Industry Awards
The Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF) has announced the finalists for the 21st Australian Insurance Industry Awards, set to take place on August 21, 2025, at the Star Event Centre in Sydney.
- EQT's A$5.25 Billion Bid for AUB Group: A Game-Changer in Australian Insurance
In a significant development within Australia's insurance sector, Swedish private equity firm EQT has proposed a takeover of AUB Group, valuing the insurance broking company at A$5.25 billion (US$3.41 billion). This offer represents a 25.
- Australian Businesses Embrace Cyber Insurance Amid Rising Digital Threats
In the past year, BizCover, a leading small business insurance provider, has reported an almost 50% rise in sales of cyber liability insurance. This significant uptick underscores the escalating awareness and concern among Australian businesses regarding cyber threats.
- Surge in Insurance Profits: What It Means for Australian Policyholders
In 2024, Australia's insurance industry recorded an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a substantial increase from the five-year average of $2 billion. This surge is primarily attributed to significant premium hikes and a relatively quiet year for natural disasters.
- IAG CEO Predicts Ongoing Insurance Premium Rises Amid Easing Inflation
Australian consumers should brace for continued increases in insurance premiums, albeit at a moderated pace, according to Nick Hawkins, CEO of Insurance Australia Group (IAG).
- Allianz Australia Completes $642 Million Acquisition of RAA Insurance
In a significant move within the Australian insurance sector, Allianz Australia has successfully acquired RAA Insurance for $642 million. This acquisition, approved by the competition regulator on June 12, 2025, marks a strategic expansion for Allianz into the South Australian market.
- Rising Insurance Risks Challenge Australian Businesses in Evolving Landscape
Australian businesses are currently navigating a complex and evolving risk landscape, marked by increased exposures across various domains. A recent report from Gallagher highlights several key areas contributing to this heightened risk environment.
- Surge in Profits for Australian Insurers Amid Rising Premiums
In 2024, Australia's insurance industry reported a collective after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a significant increase from the five-year average of $2 billion. This surge is attributed to substantial premium hikes and a relatively quiet year for natural disasters.
- Rising Insurance Costs Challenge Australian Businesses Amid Crime Surge
Australian businesses are confronting escalating insurance premiums, driven by a surge in break-ins and thefts. This trend is placing additional financial strain on business owners already navigating a complex economic environment.
- Suncorp's Financial Performance Surges with New Share Buyback Initiative
Australian insurer Suncorp has reported a significant 8% increase in full-year cash earnings, reaching A$1.49 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This performance surpasses analyst expectations and underscores the company's robust financial health.
- IAG's Financial Growth Reflects Strength in Australian Insurance Market
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has reported a notable increase in annual cash earnings, reaching A$1.17 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This marks a significant rise from the previous year's A$905 million and exceeds market expectations.
- Navigating the Rising Insurance Risk Landscape for Australian Businesses
Australian businesses are currently facing heightened insurance risk pressures stemming from various factors, including increased litigation, technological advancements, supply chain disruptions, catastrophic events, and geopolitical tensions. Understanding these elements is crucial for businesses preparing for insurance renewals and risk management strategies.
- ASIC Takes Legal Action Against RACQ Insurance Over Misleading Premium Practices
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated Federal Court proceedings against RACQ Insurance, a subsidiary of Insurance Australia Group (IAG), alleging that the insurer misled over 570,000 customers through deceptive premium comparison pricing in renewal notices issued between September 2019 and December 2024.
- ACCC Examines IAG's Proposed Acquisition of RAC Insurance Amid Competition Concerns
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has expressed concerns regarding Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) proposed A$1.35 billion acquisition of The Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia's (RAC) insurance business.
- ASIC Initiates Legal Proceedings Against QBE Insurance Over Alleged Misleading Pricing Discounts
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has filed a lawsuit against QBE Insurance, alleging that the insurer misled over half a million customers regarding pricing discounts between July 2017 and September 2022.
