Health Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy

Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy

Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy?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.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s proposal to dismantle major insurance companies to boost competitiveness and reduce premiums has sparked significant pushback from industry brokers.
The suggestion, criticized as ineffective, faces opposition from those who argue that the root causes of high premiums lie elsewhere.

As noted by insurtech pioneer Scott Norton, whose alternatives have gained traction, the real issue lies in inadequate disaster preparedness. According to broker Petara Tanuvasa, premium increases are driven by insufficient measures like flood defences and firebreaks. These gaps lead insurers to elevate premiums to offset rising claims. Taxes further burden consumers, with levies such as GST, stamp duties, and fire service contributions inflating costs more.

Stacy Finnegan, COO of RepX, backed Norton’s viewpoint and stressed that local governments play a critical role in reducing home insurance claims. Enforcing building standards, avoiding development in risk-prone areas, and incorporating flood and fire-resistant requirements are crucial steps. "We stand united against severe weather patterns that heighten market volatility, instead of targeting the industry unfairly," she commented.

Additionally, some industry voices, like Tasmanian broker Greg Lewer, suggest that the real financial burdens come from other sectors. Lewer highlights the disparity between insurance and bank profits, noting that while 85 insurers collectively earned $5.9 billion last year, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia alone garnered $5.1 billion in half that time.

Given the challenges, industry stakeholders believe addressing fundamental issues rather than resorting to divestment is vital for achieving sustainable premium reductions and fostering healthy market competition.

As the debate unfolds, it remains to be seen whether policymakers will shift focus towards holistic solutions that encompass broader economic and environmental strategies, addressing taxes, disaster mitigation, and proactive local governance.

Published:Thursday, 6th Mar 2025
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:

Rate this article

Sign in with Google to rate

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

Rising Input Costs Challenge Australian Farmers Amid Global Uncertainty
Rising Input Costs Challenge Australian Farmers Amid Global Uncertainty
29 May 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian farmers are currently navigating a complex landscape marked by escalating input costs, driven by global conflicts and economic volatility. The recent Middle East conflict has notably disrupted energy and shipping markets, leading to increased prices for essential farm inputs such as diesel and fertiliser. This surge in costs is placing significant pressure on farm margins and influencing operational decisions across the sector. - read more
Rising Cybersecurity Threats in Australian Agriculture's Digital Era
Rising Cybersecurity Threats in Australian Agriculture's Digital Era
29 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The integration of digital technologies into Australian farming practices has revolutionised the sector, enhancing efficiency and productivity. However, this digital transformation has also introduced significant cybersecurity risks, which many farmers may not be fully prepared to address. - read more
Australian Agriculture Surpasses $100 Billion Production Target Ahead of Schedule
Australian Agriculture Surpasses $100 Billion Production Target Ahead of Schedule
29 May 2026: Paige Estritori
In a remarkable achievement, Australia's agricultural sector has reached its ambitious $100 billion production value target four years ahead of schedule. This milestone underscores the resilience and adaptability of Australian farmers in the face of global challenges. - read more
NSW Government Initiates Review of Emergency Services Levy Amid Rising Insurance Costs
NSW Government Initiates Review of Emergency Services Levy Amid Rising Insurance Costs
29 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The New South Wales (NSW) government has announced a parliamentary inquiry to examine the Emergency Services Levy (ESL), a significant factor contributing to escalating insurance premiums for businesses across the state. This initiative aims to explore potential reforms that could alleviate the financial burden on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). - read more
Fuel Crisis Highlights Critical Insurance Coverage Gaps for Small Businesses
Fuel Crisis Highlights Critical Insurance Coverage Gaps for Small Businesses
29 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The ongoing fuel crisis in Australia has brought to light significant insurance coverage gaps that could jeopardize the financial stability of small businesses. As fuel prices soar and supply chain disruptions persist, many business owners may find that their existing insurance policies no longer align with their current risk profiles. - read more
Click for more Insurance News


Health Insurance Articles

Understanding the Basics of Australian Health Insurance
Understanding the Basics of Australian Health Insurance
Health insurance is a critical part of maintaining your well-being and financial stability. In Australia, understanding the basics of health insurance can help you make informed decisions that protect you during unforeseen medical events. - read more
How to Choose the Best Family Health Cover for Your Needs
How to Choose the Best Family Health Cover for Your Needs
With healthcare being a critical aspect of every family's well-being in Australia, securing the right family health insurance is not just a necessity but a responsibility. Recognizing the importance of this safety net is the first step towards safeguarding the future health needs of your loved ones. Balancing comprehensive coverage against affordable premiums can seem overwhelming with a multitude of plans available. - read more
The Digital Age of Health Insurance: Comparing Policies Online
The Digital Age of Health Insurance: Comparing Policies Online
The dawn of the digital age has significantly transformed the way we approach nearly every aspect of our lives, and the domain of health insurance is no exception. With the arrival of innovative digital tools, the health insurance landscape has undergone a striking evolution, allowing for unprecedented accessibility and convenience in managing healthcare coverage. - read more
Keeping Your Family Protected: The Importance of Adequate Health Insurance Coverage
Keeping Your Family Protected: The Importance of Adequate Health Insurance Coverage
The modern Australian family faces a dynamic and ever-evolving set of health needs, with access to quality healthcare remaining a cornerstone of managing our wellbeing. As these needs shift through the different stages of life, the assurance of having a safety net in place can provide unparalleled peace of mind. It's this sense of security that makes adequate health insurance coverage indispensable in today's fast-paced society. - read more
5 Tips to Save on Health Cover as an Australian Senior
5 Tips to Save on Health Cover as an Australian Senior
Finding the right health insurance coverage is a critical concern for Australian seniors, who often face the dual challenge of managing chronic health conditions and maintaining financial stability in retirement. As the cost of healthcare continues to rise, the importance of securing an affordable health cover that still meets their needs cannot be overstated. - read more

Knowledgebase
Insurance Policy Excess:
The amount you will have to contribute when you make a claim.

Quick Links: | Private Health Insurance Australia | Best Private Health Insurance | Compare Health Insurance Plans | Affordable Health Insurance | Health Insurance Quotes | Private Health Cover | Health Insurance Comparison | Top Health Insurance Providers | Health Insurance Benefits | Health Insurance Premiums | Health Insurance Policies
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.