ASIC Review Puts Life Insurance Sector Under Scrutiny

The recent review unearthed ongoing issues with remuneration structures, indicating that some insurers still link commissions to sales targets, potentially fostering aggressive sales tactics.

The study further revealed a troubling rise in claims disputes, with reported cases more than doubling since 2018, raising concerns about the transparency and trustworthiness of these policies.

ASIC Commissioner, Alan Kirkland, has communicated to industry leaders that their proactive measures in addressing these issues will be pivotal in determining ASIC's future actions, which may include investigations or enforcement measures. The review aimed to evaluate improvements in consumer outcomes following previous assessments and the implementation of recommendations from the Hayne Royal Commission.

Despite acknowledging advancements by certain firms, Kirkland emphasised that many areas still require urgent attention, particularly in direct sales channels. He advised that companies share the key findings with their boards and integrate necessary reformative actions into their operational strategies.

This development marks a critical point for consumers and the insurance industry alike. The highlighted deficiencies in selling practices and the rising disputes could erode customer trust, impacting consumer confidence and satisfaction. For businesses, the implications of increased regulatory oversight could necessitate costly adjustments and reforms to align with improved consumer protection standards. This scrutiny underscores the delicate balance between profit motives and ethical sales practices that insurers must navigate.

The life insurance sector is poised for significant changes as companies must now pivot to enhance their consumer dealings and rectify the flagged issues. This could lead to a wave of policy revisions and perhaps an industry-wide overhaul of sales incentive structures. Expert voices anticipate that ASIC will closely monitor the industry's response, with non-compliance potentially leading to stricter regulations or sanctions.

As these developments unfold, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how insurers adapt and whether these changes lead to tangible improvements in consumer protection and satisfaction.

Published:Tuesday, 26th Aug 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Rising Group Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian Life Insurance

28 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

Insurance premiums for group life policies with long-term benefits have surged between 15% to 25% on average in the first half of the year, according to a mid-year market update from Marsh Australia. While the steepest increases affected those with adverse claims experiences, short-term rates and premiums for permanent disabilities remained relatively steady. The sector has also become more selective, with insurers adopting stricter underwriting standards, particularly eschewing high-risk industries. - read more

Concerns Arise Over Construction Code Pause Amid Housing Push

28 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

The federal government's initiative to accelerate housing development by relaxing certain building regulations has raised alarm within the insurance sector. Housing Minister Clare O’Neil announced changes on social media, indicating a strategic pause on parts of the National Construction Code to expedite building approvals and encourage the construction of much-needed homes across Australia. This move comes in response to challenges in the approval process, which often delays construction. - read more

RACQ Insurance Ordered to Increase Payout After Claim Handling Flaws

27 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

RACQ Insurance has been instructed to bolster a payout to a customer following a ruling by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). The dispute arose after the insurer's handling of a house fire claim lodged by a woman in October 2023 was found lacking. The fire, initiated by scented candles, resulted in significant fire and smoke damage to her home. - read more

ASIC Review Puts Life Insurance Sector Under Scrutiny

26 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has spotlighted significant shortcomings in the direct sale of life insurance products, urging the industry to reassess its sales practices. The recent review unearthed ongoing issues with remuneration structures, indicating that some insurers still link commissions to sales targets, potentially fostering aggressive sales tactics. The study further revealed a troubling rise in claims disputes, with reported cases more than doubling since 2018, raising concerns about the transparency and trustworthiness of these policies. - read more

Ombudsman Sides with Insurer on Imposed Excess Dispute

25 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

A recent ruling by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has upheld an insurer's decision to impose an additional $2000 excess on a property policy, following a dispute raised by a policyholder over claims history impacts. - read more

Business Insurance Articles

Understanding Liability Insurance: A Must-Read for Australian Business Owners

As a business owner in Australia, navigating the complexities of insurance is crucial to safeguard your enterprise against unforeseen events. Liability insurance emerges as a cornerstone of a sound risk management plan, protecting you financially when held responsible for accidents, injuries or negligence. Its importance cannot be understated, as it serves not only to defend your business assets but also to ensure peace of mind in a climate of continually evolving liabilities. - read more

Understanding The Costs: How Much Does Public Liability Insurance Typically Cost?

Public liability insurance is a crucial form of protection for both businesses and individuals, safeguarding them against potential claims for personal injury or property damage that occur as a result of their operations or services. In an increasingly litigious society, having this coverage can mean the difference between staying afloat financially and facing business closure due to unexpected claims. - read more

Public Liability Insurance for Events: What Organizers Need to Consider

Public liability insurance is a type of coverage designed to protect businesses and individuals from the financial fallout associated with claims for injury or damage caused to third parties. It is particularly crucial for event organizers, who are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of attendees, vendors, and participants. - read more

Common Myths About Public Liability Insurance Debunked

Today, we're diving into the world of public liability insurance, a crucial topic for anyone running a small business or working as a self-employed professional in Australia. - read more

Why Every Business Needs Public Liability Insurance

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on public liability insurance. If you run a business, you've probably heard this term thrown around quite often. But what exactly is public liability insurance? - read more

Start Here !

Knowledgebase

Actuary:
A professional who analyzes the financial costs of risk and uncertainty using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust) 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228, A.C.N. 010281008, authorised Financial Services Representative of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd, Australian Financial Services License 509434. Visit the ASIC website for additional licensing information.

IMPORTANT: We are neither authorised nor licensed to provide insurance or insurance products. We do not recommend any specific financial products and we do not offer any form of insurance or other financial advice. All product enquiries and requests for financial and/or other advice on this website are referred to third party, qualified intermediaries with whom you can 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 part 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.