Welcome to the Insurance Online News podcast with your host, Paige Estritori, where we deliver the latest and most significant news from the world of insurance in Australia. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to bring you the freshest updates, focusing on the stories that matter the most to both Australian businesses and individual consumers over the past week.
Through meticulous research, we transform these developments into original content that not only keeps you informed but also offers deep insights into the insurance landscape as it stands today. Our podcast distills these crucial updates into a format that's both succinct and captivating. For professionals within the insurance realm or personal consumers keen on keeping up with insurance trends, look no further. Paige Estritori brings you all the essential information daily, making our podcast the ultimate destination for trustworthy and impactful insurance news.
This Week:
Paige Estritori covers four Australian insurance updates: broker transparency moves that would require fee and commission disclosure to individuals and small businesses; councils considering a flood‑cover mutual as the Insurance Council of Australia argues for national risk pooling and mitigation; Victorian bushfires declared catastrophic with thousands of claims and potential premium pressure; and a travellers denied claim highlighting the need to add optional natural disaster cover. Listeners are urged to compare quotes, ask brokers for itemised costs, review sums insured, document mitigation steps, and check PDS add‑ons. Visit insuranceonline.com.au for fast quotes and broker support.
Hello and welcome to Insurance Online News, Im Paige Estritori, and its Thursday, 22 January 2026.
First up, a transparency push for anyone using a broker. NIBA, the National Insurance Brokers Association, has backed new code recommendations for brokers to disclose fees and commissions to individuals and small businesses. The aim is clearer, dollar‑based information at renewal and when youre quoted. For you, that means asking for an itemised breakdown when comparing cover, and using our platform to line up quotes side by side with expert broker support.
Next up, regional insurance affordability is back in the spotlight. A group of Queensland councils is exploring a local flood‑cover mutual, but the Insurance Council of Australia, or ICA, says a national pooling approach and stronger mitigation will likely work better than small local schemes that cant spread risk. If youre in a flood‑prone area, review your sums insured, document your risk‑reduction steps, and compare options early so youre not renewing under pressure.
Meanwhile, in Victoria, this months bushfires have been declared catastrophic, with thousands of claims already lodged and some properties total losses. Insurers say multiple costly disasters since spring could put upward pressure on premiums, though cover remains available. If youre affected, start your claim promptly, keep receipts, and speak with a broker to avoid underinsurance when you rebuild.
And a quick consumer reminder from a recent dispute decision. A travellers claim for weather‑disrupted plans was knocked back because she hadnt added the optional natural disaster upgrade, even though she bought a higher‑tier policy. Always check the Product Disclosure Statement—PDS—and make sure the optional extras match your trip, especially in cyclone or monsoon seasons. When you compare travel policies with us, look closely at those add‑ons before you buy.
Thats it for this week. For fast, free quotes and independent broker help across personal and business insurance, head to insuranceonline.com.au. Im Paige Estritori—thanks for listening, and talk to you next week.
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.
Follow us!
We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!
Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.
Welcome to our blog on understanding boat insurance, specifically tailored for new boat owners. Owning a boat is an exciting adventure filled with the promise of memorable experiences on the water. - read more
A boat insurance policy is a contract between an insurer and a boat owner, providing protection against various risks and liabilities associated with owning and operating a boat. It typically covers damage or loss to the boat, liability for bodily injury or property damage caused by the boat, and medical expenses for individuals injured on the boat. - read more
Boat insurance is a must-have for any boat owner. Whether you're out on the water every weekend or only take your boat out a few times a year, accidents can happen. When they do, the cost of repairs or legal fees can add up quickly. Boat insurance can help protect you financially in the event of an accident or damage to your boat. - read more
Boating is a beloved pastime in Australia, offering endless opportunities to explore the stunning coastline and sparkling waterways. However, enjoying your time on the water safely is paramount. Proper safety measures are essential to ensure that every boating activity is as enjoyable as it is secure. - read more
As a recreational boat owner in Australia, you are responsible for ensuring the safety of your vessel and passengers. This is where boat insurance comes in to play. Boat insurance is a type of insurance policy that can provide financial protection against damage to your boat, theft, and injury to passengers. - read more
Markel Insurance has announced the appointment of Tim Wills as Head of Marine for Australia, marking a significant expansion into the country's marine insurance sector. Based in Sydney, Wills will spearhead the introduction of Markel's marine products, starting with marine cargo insurance. - read more
Pelagic Risk Services, a specialist marine insurance broker, has elevated its commitment to the marina industry by upgrading from Silver to Gold Sponsorship with the Marina Industries Association (MIA). This move underscores Pelagic's dedication to supporting marinas across Australia through enhanced financial contributions and the provision of exclusive risk management resources. - read more
Rhodian Group has announced the launch of Marinex Underwriting, a new agency dedicated to providing specialised 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
As global trade dynamics undergo significant shifts, GT Insurance is reaffirming its commitment to supporting marine clients navigating these challenges. The recent imposition of US tariffs—25% on Australian steel and aluminium, and 10% on other exported goods—has introduced new uncertainties for local exporters, particularly in sectors like beef and bulk freight. These tariffs, effective from April 5, 2025, have prompted concerns about declining export volumes and reduced freight margins. - read more
Marina operators in Northern Australia are confronting a significant crisis as insurance premiums escalate dramatically, with some experiencing increases exceeding 300% over recent years. This surge in costs is placing immense financial strain on the industry, prompting urgent calls for government intervention. - read more
Disability Insurance: A type of insurance protection that pays a portion of a person's income lost due to a total or partial disablement arising from either an accident or a sickness.
