Public Liability Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Surge in Profits for Australian Insurers Following Premium Increases

Understanding the Impact of Rising Premiums on Insurer Profits

Surge in Profits for Australian Insurers Following Premium Increases?w=400

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.

Australia's insurance sector has reported a substantial after-tax profit of $6.1 billion for the year 2024, according to KPMG's annual review.
This figure is three times higher than the five-year average of $2 billion, highlighting a significant financial upturn for the industry.

This profit surge coincides with notable increases in insurance premiums. In 2025, the average home insurance premium rose by 19.3%, reaching $1,277, up from $1,070. Similarly, car insurance premiums increased by 12%, averaging $845, up from $754. These hikes have been attributed to factors such as inflation, rising repair costs, and the need to bolster reserves against potential future claims.

While the industry cites these factors as justification for premium increases, consumer advocates express concern over the affordability of insurance for many Australians. The substantial profit margins reported raise questions about the balance between maintaining financial stability for insurers and ensuring fair pricing for policyholders.

In response to these developments, there is a growing call for greater transparency in how premiums are calculated and for measures to ensure that insurance remains accessible to all Australians. As the industry continues to navigate these challenges, it is imperative to strike a balance that safeguards both the financial health of insurers and the interests of consumers.

Published:Friday, 23rd Jan 2026
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

ICA Advocates for Legal Changes to Ease Small Business Insurance Burden
ICA Advocates for Legal Changes to Ease Small Business Insurance Burden
21 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently highlighted the pressing need for legal reforms to alleviate the escalating insurance premiums burdening small businesses across the nation. In a submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee's inquiry into small business insurance, the ICA outlined several key areas requiring immediate attention. - read more
Legal Professionals Oppose Proposed Caps on Legal Fees in Liability Cases
Legal Professionals Oppose Proposed Caps on Legal Fees in Liability Cases
21 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA) has recently expressed strong opposition to the Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) proposal to implement caps on legal fees in liability cases. This proposal is part of the ICA's broader agenda to address the rising insurance premiums affecting small businesses across Australia. - read more
ICA Advocates for Improved Risk Education to Support Small Businesses
ICA Advocates for Improved Risk Education to Support Small Businesses
21 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently emphasized the need for improved risk education programs tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative aims to equip business owners with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage risks effectively and navigate the complexities of the insurance market. - read more
APRA Data Shows Rising Insurance Premiums Through Intermediaries
APRA Data Shows Rising Insurance Premiums Through Intermediaries
13 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released its latest statistics, indicating an increase in general insurance premiums placed through intermediaries. In the six months leading up to December 31, 2025, intermediated premiums totaled $22.97 billion, up from $21.59 billion in the previous half-year. - read more
Lawyers Challenge ICA's Proposal for Legal Fee Caps
Lawyers Challenge ICA's Proposal for Legal Fee Caps
13 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA) has raised objections to the Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) recent proposal to implement caps on legal fees in liability cases. The ICA argues that such measures are necessary to address rising public liability insurance premiums, attributing the increases to outdated civil liability laws and escalating legal costs. - read more


Business Insurance Articles

The Business Owner's Guide to Calculating Adequate Public Liability Coverage
The Business Owner's Guide to Calculating Adequate Public Liability Coverage
For any business owner, navigating the waters of legal and financial protection can be daunting. Public liability insurance is a lifeboat in this respect; by understanding its basics, businesses can better shield themselves against the unpredictable tides of liability claims. As a starting point, public liability insurance is designed to protect businesses in the event that a third party suffers an injury or property damage due to the business's operations. - read more
Protect Your Construction Business: The Importance of Adequate Liability Coverage
Protect Your Construction Business: The Importance of Adequate Liability Coverage
Operating within the construction industry involves managing an intricate web of risks and liabilities daily. Public liability insurance stands as one of the core safeguards to protect businesses from potential financial pitfalls that may arise from these risks. - read more
A Guide to Public Liability Insurance for Construction Businesses
A Guide to Public Liability Insurance for Construction Businesses
When embarking on a construction project, the potential for unexpected incidents and the associated liabilities cannot be ignored. Navigating through the intricate world of insurance might seem daunting, but understanding public liability insurance can save your business from financial peril. In the ever-evolving landscape of Australian construction, its significance cannot be overstated. - read more
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Public Liability Coverage
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Public Liability Coverage
Public liability insurance stands as a crucial safeguard for businesses, shielding them from the financial repercussions of legal claims. These claims can arise when members of the public suffer damages or injuries in connection with a business's operations. Understanding the basics of this coverage is not just a matter of legal compliance for many businesses, but a proactive step in asset protection. - read more
Common Public Liability Risks You Might Be Overlooking
Common Public Liability Risks You Might Be Overlooking
Public liability insurance is a critical form of coverage that protects businesses against claims of injury or damage caused by their operations to members of the public. Its primary purpose is to cover legal costs and compensation payments, which can otherwise cripple a business financially. - read more

Knowledgebase
Term Life Insurance:
A life insurance that provides a cover for a specific period of time - usually one to five years or until the insured reaches age 65 or 70.