Senate Probes Climate's Toll on Insurance Costs and Access

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.

The Senate has launched an investigation into the growing climate risks that are affecting insurance premiums, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.

Deputy leader of the Australian Greens and New South Wales Senator Mehreen Faruqi prompted the initiative by advocating for the formation of the Select Committee on the Impact of Climate Risk on Insurance Premiums and Availability.

This committee aims to scrutinize the challenges of insurance unaffordability affecting certain regions prone to climate-induced disasters and the barriers preventing some individuals from obtaining coverage. Additionally, it will assess how premium increases are linked to climate change and its impact on various insurance products, even those not directly exposed to climate risk.

The committee is also keen to understand the distributional effects of rising premiums across different communities, regions, and demographics. They will examine the role governments play in promoting climate adaptation and resilience measures to reduce insurance costs.

Labor Senator Tony Sheldon remarked that the committee’s efforts would help pinpoint areas where the government can support Australians facing escalating insurance rates.

"Since July 2022, more than half of Australia's local government areas have encountered natural disasters," Sheldon shared in an interview with insuranceNEWS.com.au. "Ensuring community safety before, during, and after these events is a chief concern for the Albanese administration."

The committee is scheduled to deliver its final report by November 19.

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) plans to review the committee’s terms of reference closely. According to the ICA spokesperson, the insurance industry has been actively participating in the House Economics Committee's inquiry into the responses to the 2022 flood claims, which also considers affordability and the efficacy of mitigation strategies.

“The ICA will coordinate with the Senate committee to streamline efforts and avoid redundancies with the work being done by the House Economics Committee,” the spokesperson added.

Published:Saturday, 18th May 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Surge in Mental Health Claims Challenges Australia's Income Protection Insurance

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent data from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveals a significant shift in the landscape of income protection insurance in Australia. Mental health conditions have emerged as the leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims, accounting for nearly one-third of all claims paid. In 2024 alone, insurers disbursed over $2.2 billion for retail mental health claims, a figure that has almost doubled compared to five years prior. - read more

Decline in Income Protection Premiums Reflects Market Adjustments in Australia

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent research from Rainmaker Information indicates a notable decrease in income protection insurance premiums across Australia. Direct income protection premiums have fallen by 12% for policies with a 30-day waiting period and 13% for those with a 90-day waiting period since 2024. Similarly, premiums for life products sold through advisers have decreased by 5%, with income protection premiums dropping by 7% for 30-day waiting periods and 5% for 90-day periods. - read more

Superannuation Insurance Extends Coverage to 6 Million More Australians

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

New research from the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) reveals that superannuation insurance now provides critical protection to over 6 million Australians who would otherwise be uninsured. This expansion has been achieved without impacting household spending, as the coverage is included within superannuation contributions. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Life Insurance Articles

The Essential Role of Income Insurance in Your Financial Plan

An income insurance policy, often referred to as income protection insurance, is a financial safety net designed to provide you with a steady income stream if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It ensures that you can still support yourself and your family, even when unforeseen medical conditions prevent you from earning a salary. This policy typically covers a percentage of your pre-tax income, helping to alleviate the financial burden during recovery periods. - read more

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

The Role of Rehabilitation Benefits in Income Protection Insurance

When the unexpected strikes, such as an illness or injury hindering our ability to earn a living, the financial repercussions can be devastating. This is where income protection insurance becomes a pivotal part of our financial safety net, ensuring a stream of income during challenging times. - read more

Preparing for the Unexpected: Why Income Protection is Essential for Financial Security

Life's unpredictability can often bring unforeseen challenges, particularly when it comes to our finances. One day you might be climbing the career ladder, the next you could find yourself unable to work due to illness or injury. This is where income protection insurance steps in, serving as a financial safety net that ensures you can continue to meet your living expenses, even when the unexpected happens. - read more

Income Protection Insurance vs. Total Permanent Disability: What’s the Difference?

When life throws unexpected challenges your way, being financially prepared can make all the difference. This is where Income Protection Insurance and Total Permanent Disability (TPD) Insurance come into play. These two types of insurance provide a crucial safety net, ensuring that you and your family remain financially stable even when you're unable to work due to illness or injury. - read more

Start Here !

Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

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 do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. 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 always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.