Income Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny

Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny

Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny?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.

Amid rising concerns, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) has flagged the escalating expenses associated with indemnity insurance premiums as a serious issue that demands attention.

Following a heated discussion at a recent national conference held on the Gold Coast, the AMA and its New South Wales branch convened with a number of medical defence organisations to tackle this pressing matter.

During these meetings, participants delved into changes in healthcare delivery and the evolving scopes of medical practice-factors contributing significantly to the rising costs within the medical indemnity sector.

According to a statement published on the AMA’s website, the Medical Defence Organisations (MDOs), which largely operate as member-based mutual entities, acknowledged the industry's growing unease. They shared global insurance market trends and emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication and collaborative efforts with the AMA to address systemic policy issues. Despite the need for cooperation, the constraints of competition law were noted as a limiting factor.

The organizations represented at the meeting included key industry players such as Avant, MDA National, Medical Indemnity Protection Society, MIGA, and Tego.

In its latest report, Avant informed Insurance News that their average rate increments have managed to remain below inflation for several renewal periods. Nevertheless, certain specialized fields have experienced sharp double-digit rate hikes due to specific claim frequencies and severities, affecting less than 1% of their membership.

Published:Wednesday, 4th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Australian Insurers Adapt Investment Strategies in Response to Geopolitical Shifts
Australian Insurers Adapt Investment Strategies in Response to Geopolitical Shifts
07 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian insurers are actively revising their investment portfolios in response to evolving geopolitical events and economic conditions. According to the 2025 Australian Insurance Report by Janus Henderson Investors, 47% of insurers plan to increase their investment portfolio risk over the next 12 months, with a significant focus on private markets. - read more
AFCA Upholds Policyholder Rights in Income Protection Case
AFCA Upholds Policyholder Rights in Income Protection Case
27 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In June 2025, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) ruled in favour of a policyholder in a dispute over the duration of income protection payments. The case involved Resolution Life Australasia and centred on the insurer's decision to cease payments earlier than the policyholder expected. - read more
Swiss Re Advocates for Sustainable TPD Insurance Amid Rising Claims
Swiss Re Advocates for Sustainable TPD Insurance Amid Rising Claims
27 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In October 2025, Swiss Re, a leading global reinsurer, announced a temporary halt on accepting new life insurance business in Australia. This decision aims to address concerns over the sustainability of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) products in the market. - read more
Rising Mental Health Claims Impact Australia's Income Protection Insurance
Rising Mental Health Claims Impact Australia's Income Protection Insurance
19 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent data from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveals a significant increase in mental health-related claims within Australia's income protection insurance sector. In 2024, mental health conditions accounted for 20% of income protection claims, resulting in payouts totaling $887 million. This marks a substantial rise compared to previous years, indicating a growing trend that insurers and policyholders must address. - read more
Australian Super Under Fire for Prolonged Insurance Claim Delays
Australian Super Under Fire for Prolonged Insurance Claim Delays
19 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian Super, the nation's largest superannuation fund, is facing criticism over significant delays in processing insurance claims. Reports indicate that some members have experienced prolonged waiting periods, with delays extending up to four years in certain cases. These delays have raised concerns about the efficiency and fairness of the fund's claims handling processes. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

How to Determine the Right Income Protection Coverage for Your Needs
How to Determine the Right Income Protection Coverage for Your Needs
Income protection insurance is a type of coverage designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. - read more
Understanding the Process: A Beginner's Guide to Income Insurance Claims
Understanding the Process: A Beginner's Guide to Income Insurance Claims
Income insurance, an often-overlooked component of financial security, is gaining traction among Australia's burgeoning self-employed population. In an economy where traditional employment is no longer the sole path to success, this form of insurance has become a cornerstone for proactive financial planning. Touted as a safety net, it ensures that personal livelihoods and business operations remain secure in the face of adversity. - read more
Income Protection Insurance: Balancing Cost with Adequate Coverage
Income Protection Insurance: Balancing Cost with Adequate Coverage
Income protection insurance is a critical safety net for anyone who relies on a steady paycheck to meet their financial obligations and maintain their lifestyle. It offers a replacement income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, ensuring that your financial responsibilities can be met even when you're not at your earning best. In today's fast-paced world, income protection has become an essential consideration for the modern working individual. - read more
Income Insurance: Common Misunderstandings that Could Cost You
Income Insurance: Common Misunderstandings that Could Cost You
When life throws unexpected challenges your way, income insurance can be a financial lifesaver. Essentially, it's a policy designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. Imagine not having to worry about bills piling up while you focus on recovery. That's the peace of mind income insurance aims to provide. - read more
Common Pitfalls in Income Insurance Claims and How to Avoid Them
Common Pitfalls in Income Insurance Claims and How to Avoid Them
Income insurance is a critical component of financial planning, offering a safety net when life's uncertainties impact your income stream. It ensures that you can continue meeting your financial obligations even if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially in an unpredictable job market. - read more


Start Here !
disability protection
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Monthly Income Benefit:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.