Financial Advice Landscape Set for Further Overhaul

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.

This legislation marks a pivotal first step in a series of upcoming financial advice reforms initiated by the federal government. It mandates brokers to obtain consent when charging commissions for personal advice, aiming to foster better transparency and affordability in the financial advice provided.

According to the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA), these reforms will play a critical role in ensuring that comprehensive risk advice remains both accessible and affordable across Australia. "We are eager to partner with the government and regulatory bodies to implement these reforms," said a representative from NIBA. "Our focus is to support our members in navigating these changes without compromising the quality of advice they deliver."

NIBA has pledged to work closely with its members throughout the year to facilitate adherence to the new legislative requirements. The organization is set on equipping its members with the necessary tools and guidance to continue offering premium services while ensuring compliance with the latest standards.

Meanwhile, insurers are also gearing up for the next round of reforms. A spokesperson from the Insurance Council of Australia expressed readiness to engage in phase two consultations. "The subsequent phase of these reforms addresses the unmet demand for financial advice among individuals with straightforward financial scenarios," the spokesperson remarked. "We are keen to explore the opportunities this presents."

Stephen Jones, Financial Services Minister, emphasized that the new legislation augments transparency and strengthens consumer safeguards in personal insurance advice. He mentioned that the next set of reforms, slated for development later this year, aims to enhance both the reach and affordability of financial advice across the board.

"Our forthcoming reforms will modernize key aspects of financial advising, including the revision of statements of advice and the best-interests duty. Additionally, changes are set to enable financial institutions to provide what we term 'simple' advice, a valuable addition for consumers with straightforward needs," Jones noted.

It is worth mentioning that the recently passed bill included crucial amendments to rectify draft errors that might have inadvertently banned commissions for brokers providing general advice. Furthermore, it contains a provision allowing individuals to leverage their superannuation accounts to cover costs associated with receiving personal financial advice from independent advisors.

These industry-changing reforms promise to reshape the financial advisory landscape significantly, making quality advice more transparent, accessible, and affordable for all Australians. Immediate and collaborative efforts from industry players are cited as imperative for a smooth transition. As reported by Insurance News Magazine, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones has indicated his firm stance against succumbing to populist politics concerning affordability, emphasizing a balanced and well-developed approach to these reforms.

Published:Wednesday, 24th Jul 2024
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:

Insurance News

Clear

Claims Code Reform Keeps the Spotlight on Liability Cover

12 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

Renewed attention on reforms to Australia's General Insurance Code of Practice is a useful reminder that the quality of an insurance policy is tested most clearly when a claim is made. For small businesses, sole traders, tradies and event organisers, that moment can be stressful, time-sensitive and financially significant, especially where a customer, supplier or member of the public alleges injury or property damage. - read more

What the Latest SME Insurance Index Means for Liability Cover

04 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

Vero’s latest SME Insurance Index has put a familiar small business challenge back in focus: many Australian operators know insurance is essential, but still find it difficult to judge whether their cover matches the risks they face. For businesses with public interaction, contractors, deliveries, site visits or customer premises exposure, that uncertainty can be especially costly if a third-party injury or property damage claim arises. - read more

Insurance Complaints Are a Reminder to Prepare Before a Claim

28 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent complaint trends reported by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority have again put insurance claims service under the microscope. While much of the public attention often falls on home, motor and disaster-related cover, the message is just as relevant for small business owners: the moment a claim occurs is not the time to start working out what your policy requires. - read more

What Unfair Trading Reform Could Mean for Small Business Insurance Claims

21 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia’s latest unfair trading practices reform has opened a fresh debate for the insurance sector, with small business advocates and insurers watching closely to see whether the new rules will eventually extend into business-to-business dealings. - read more

New Small Business Insurance Education Push Highlights Underinsurance Risk

14 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

A new alliance between the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Zest Insurance is putting small business underinsurance back in the spotlight, with education, practical tools and risk resources to be delivered through the Chamber’s THRIVE program. - read more

Click for more Insurance News