Revamp Needed for Product Distribution, Urges ASIC

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 Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has issued a stern reminder to issuers of insurance and other financial products, emphasizing the urgency to enhance their distribution practices to avoid violating compliance obligations.

Recent evaluations by the regulator unveiled significant weaknesses, including insufficient due diligence mechanisms for assessing and supervising third-party distributors, subpar consumer questionnaires, and a general lack of monitoring of consumer outcomes and product performance.

“This review offers an insight into how different industries and products are adhering to design and distribution obligations,” stated ASIC commissioner Alan Kirkland. “Where improvements can be made, we expect issuers and distributors to scrutinize the reports and elevate their distribution approaches.”

From October last year up until last month, ASIC's review covered 19 product issuers, including providers of funeral and accident insurance. The examination revealed persistent issues, particularly in funeral and accident insurance, where consumers still received quotes despite being outside the intended target market based on "knockout" question responses. Moreover, consumer questionnaires often only inquired about age, an eligibility criterion, without addressing critical affordability concerns.

Under the design and distribution obligations regime implemented since October 2021, financial product issuers are mandated to ensure their products are designed for and marketed to the correct target audience. This involves creating a target market determination statement for each product, outlining its appropriateness for the intended consumers and ensuring distribution conditions align with this target market.

“ASIC is particularly focused on fostering adherence to the design and distribution obligations,” the regulator mentioned. “We are committed to regulatory actions where necessary and leveraging these obligations to enhance consumer outcomes.”

Mr. Kirkland shared that ASIC has launched five civil proceedings related to these obligations, achieving three victories so far. Additionally, the commission has issued over 80 stop orders and published findings from seven reviews since the obligations came into effect.

Based on an article from Financial Services Online, it's clear that the current state of compliance in distribution need a proactive approach to better cater to the needs and protection of consumers. Taking heed of these regulatory insights will benefit both issuers and consumers in the long run.

Published:Thursday, 19th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Club Marine Marks 65 Years of Leadership in Australian Boating Insurance

26 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Club Marine, Australia's largest recreational boat insurer, is celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2024. Since its founding in 1959 as Marine Hull & Liability, the company has grown from a small operation in Victoria to a nationwide provider of insurance services for the country's boating community. - read more

Pelagic Risk Services Strengthens Commitment to Marinas with Gold Sponsorship

18 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to bolster support for the marina industry, Pelagic Risk Services has elevated its sponsorship status from Silver to Gold with the Marina Industries Association (MIA). This advancement underscores Pelagic's dedication to enhancing the operational capabilities and risk management strategies of marina operators across Australia. - read more

Marinex Underwriting Sets Sail in Australian Marine Insurance Market

18 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Rhodian Group has announced the launch of Marinex Underwriting, a new agency dedicated to providing specialized marine insurance products tailored to the Australian market. This initiative marks Rhodian's third agency launch, following the establishment of Halo Underwriting and Batch Underwriting in previous years. - read more

Marinex Underwriting Sets Sail in Australian Marine Insurance Market

10 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for Australia's marine insurance sector, Rhodian Group has announced the launch of Marinex Underwriting, a specialised agency dedicated to addressing the complex insurance needs of the marine industry. This initiative marks Rhodian's third agency launch, following the establishment of Halo Underwriting and Batch Underwriting in previous years. - read more

Markel Insurance Strengthens Australian Presence with New Marine Leadership

10 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Markel Insurance has announced the appointment of Tim Wills as Head of Marine for Australia, signalling the company's strategic expansion into the Australian marine insurance market. Based in Sydney, Wills will spearhead the launch of Markel's marine products in the region, beginning with marine cargo insurance. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Boat Insurance Articles

Setting Sail with Confidence: Tips for Comparing Boat Insurance Policies in Australia

Welcome aboard, Aussie skippers! When it comes to navigating the waves, whether you're doing it for leisure or livelihood, securing the right boat insurance is as crucial as knowing your starboard from your port. With varied waters and changing conditions, Australian boat owners face unique challenges that make comprehensive insurance coverage not just a choice, but a necessity. - read more

Boat Insurance Hacks Every Aussie Skipper Needs to Know

Navigating the waves around Australia's vast coastline is a pastime many hold dear. However, with great adventure comes the responsibility of ensuring your marine vessel is insured adequately. Skippers Down Under are no strangers to the unpredictable challenges at sea, and the significance of securing a suitable insurance policy cannot be overstressed. - read more

5 Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing Boat Insurance in Australia

Welcome aboard the important topic of navigating the waters of boat insurance in Australia! Whether you're a seasoned skipper or a weekend sailor, ensuring your vessel is protected should always be a top priority. Boat insurance not only offers peace of mind but is also a crucial safeguard for your investment against unexpected events and accidents. - read more

Top Tips for Reducing Your Boating Costs in Australia

Australia's seascape offers an idyllic backdrop for boating enthusiasts, yet it also presents unique challenges. Boating in Australia is not just a pastime; it's a lifestyle embraced by many who are drawn to the water's edge. The costs associated with this lifestyle, however, can mount quickly. From maintenance to mooring fees, the financial aspect of boating is an unavoidable reality. In this article, we will delve into ways you can trim these costs without sacrificing your experience at sea. - read more

Protecting Your Investment: The Importance of Boat Insurance in Australia

Have you ever imagined cruising the beautiful waters of Australia, feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face? While owning a boat offers immense joy and freedom, it also comes with responsibilities, one of which is ensuring your vessel is properly insured. - read more

Knowledgebase

Aggregate Limit:
The maximum amount an insurer will pay for all covered losses during a policy period.

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.