ACCC Strengthens Position Against Broker Commissions

⚠️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 issue stems from the practice where broker commissions are often based on premium amounts, potentially discouraging brokers from pursuing more cost-effective coverage or options that pay lower or no commissions for clients. Despite full disclosure of such remuneration to consumers, the ACCC argues that the inherent conflict remains problematic.

ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb, in the submission, underlined that while some consumers might resist an upfront fee akin to commissions, the transition challenges away from conflicted remuneration models do not justify retaining exemptions permitting them. This echoes a broader reform ethos initiated by the federal government in 2023, stipulating that brokers must secure client consent to receive commissions when providing personal advice.

NSW Fair Trading, in its independent review of strata sector practices, has also highlighted the need for the broking code of practice to enhance commission practices. Commissioner Natasha Mann advocates for bolstered disclosure obligations, promoting transparency in brokers' remuneration and ownership structures, coupled with robust compliance monitoring mechanisms.

Further perspectives include those from consultant John Trowbridge, who supports the continuation of commissions but emphasizes the necessity for brokers to transparently disclose all commission-related earnings. Trowbridge also suggests that the National Insurance Brokers Association offer guidelines to elucidate conflict management and fiduciary responsibilities within the industry.

The WA Small Business Development Corporation has expressed support for widening the disclosure requirements scope, advocating for the inclusion of small businesses. By aligning with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority rules, small enterprises, often with limited resources, stand to benefit from an expanded definition that enhances clarity on financial incentives influencing broker services.

The industry awaits further developments from the review, led by Phil Khoury, as its submission deadline approaches.

Published:Friday, 2nd May 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

CHU's 2025 Report Highlights Stability in Strata Insurance Premiums

23 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In its recently released 2025 State of the Strata Market report, CHU, Australia's leading strata insurance underwriting agency, provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the industry. The report indicates that strata insurance premiums have experienced a modest increase of 2.8%, rising from an average of $954 to $981 per lot annually in the year leading up to June 2025. This increment is notably lower than the 14% surge observed in house insurance premiums during the same period. - read more

ICA Advocates for Strata Law Reforms to Mitigate Rising Insurance Costs in Victoria

23 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently called for substantial reforms to Victoria's strata legislation, citing a direct correlation between inadequate governance and escalating insurance premiums for residents. With approximately one in five Victorians residing in strata-titled properties, the need for effective management and oversight has become increasingly critical. - read more

Strata Communities Endorse Call for Enhanced Resilience Reforms

23 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Strata communities are at the forefront of Australia's resilience battle, facing escalating costs, declining coverage, and prolonged recovery periods following disasters. Strata Community Association Australasia (SCA) has expressed strong support for the Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) recent call for coordinated, long-term resilience reforms to protect communities from these challenges. - read more

Allianz Australia Triumphs in 2026 Finder Home Insurance Awards

23 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Allianz Australia has been honoured with the top accolade in the Comprehensive Home Insurance category at the 2026 Finder Product Awards. This recognition underscores the company's dedication to delivering high-quality insurance solutions tailored to the needs of Australian homeowners. - read more

Escalating Home Insurance Costs Deepen Australia's Protection Gap

23 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Australian homeowners are facing a growing protection gap as escalating home insurance premiums render adequate coverage increasingly unaffordable. Recent data indicates that average home insurance premiums have risen by 16% over the past year, with some insurers implementing hikes exceeding 30%. - read more

Click for more Insurance News