Travel Insurance Online :: News

Share this news item!

Financial Strain Forces Families to Drop Insurance

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.

Rising financial stress has prompted a number of families to cut back on essential insurance cover, with more than 66% of parents expressing anxiety over escalating insurance premiums.

These increases are primarily driven by more frequent and severe climate-related disasters, according to new research.

A report titled "Under Pressure," developed by Parents for Climate in collaboration with the Climate Council, reveals that Australia is now acutely feeling the impact of climate change, which has in turn pressured family budgets. This situation is exacerbated by rising oil and gas prices alongside severe weather events.

Nic Seton, CEO of Parents for Climate, noted, "It's heartbreaking to hear from so many parents through this research who have to cut back spending on essentials like food, heating, cooling and insurance just to make ends meet."

The study utilized data from a YouGov survey targeting parents with children under 25 still residing at home, examining their financial stress over the past year along with their views regarding the ramifications of climate change. Additional findings were sourced from a Parents for Climate survey.

Among the budgetary adjustments families made over the last year, 19% indicated they had foregone insurance coverage. Additional cost-saving measures included:

Two-thirds reduced home heating and cooling usage.
55% scaled back vacation expenses.
53% bought less food or opted for cheaper alternatives.
37% cut back on driving to save on fuel costs.
32% trimmed expenses on children's sports and recreational activities.
27% delayed or skipped bill payments.
21% increased credit card use or took additional loans.
14% moved in with relatives or relocated to more affordable housing.

The study highlights that renters are particularly vulnerable, being three times more likely to relocate to cut costs. They are also more likely to miss bill payments or forgo insurance.

Independent economist and Climate Council advisor Nicki Hutley commented, "Oil and gas are fuelling two crises at the same time: climate change and cost of living." She explained that the rise in global climate pollution is leading to more frequent unnatural disasters, thereby driving up insurance premiums.

The report suggests that Australians are now spending an additional $30 billion on insurance compared to ten years ago, leading to many at-risk households being priced out of the market. Research from the Actuaries Institute and Finity forecasts that premium hikes have increased home insurance affordability stress by 30%, affecting 1.6 million households in the past year.

The original source of this information is the "Under Pressure" report presented by Parents for Climate and the Climate Council.

Published:Monday, 25th Nov 2024
Author: Paige Estritori
Sources

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

The Financial Perils of Travelling Uninsured: A Wake-Up Call for Australians

12 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent research has unveiled a concerning trend: 14% of Australian travellers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic is even more alarming among younger travellers under 30, with nearly one in four opting to travel uninsured. Such decisions expose individuals to significant financial risks, especially when unforeseen events occur abroad. - read more

Allianz Australia Penalised for Misleading Travel Insurance Information

04 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of New South Wales has imposed fines totaling $16.8 million on Allianz Australia Insurance and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, for disseminating misleading information about their travel insurance products between 2016 and 2018. This decision underscores the critical importance of transparency and accuracy in the insurance sector. - read more

Survey Highlights Alarming Number of Australians Travelling Uninsured

04 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travellers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted industry leaders to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before travelling abroad. - read more

Surge in Medical Claims Among Australian Travellers Highlights Importance of Comprehensive Insurance

04 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2024, medical incidents emerged as the leading cause of travel insurance claims among Australian travellers, accounting for more than 40% of all claims handled by nib Travel. This trend underscores the critical importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance to mitigate the financial risks associated with medical emergencies abroad. - read more

Allianz Australia Penalised for Misleading Travel Insurance Information

24 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Click for more Insurance News

Travel Insurance Articles

10 Must-Have Items in Your Travel Kit for Financial Security While Abroad

When it comes to travelling abroad, there's more to preparation than just packing the right clothes and booking your flights. For Australian travellers venturing overseas, assembling a financial travel kit is just as vital as a passport. This kit serves as your safeguard, ensuring that even when faced with the unpredictable, your journey remains as smooth as possible. - read more

The Savvy Traveller's Checklist for Affordable Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an indispensable component for any savvy traveller from Australia, playing a protective role in a myriad of situations that may occur away from home. Whether it's encountering flight delays, requiring medical assistance, or facing luggage theft, having a solid travel insurance policy can convert potential nightmares into manageable inconveniences. Yet, despite its importance, the process of finding a policy that won't break the bank is increasingly challenging. - read more

Australia's Most Affordable Destinations for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Australia, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, can seem dauntingly expensive for travelers. However, exploring this vast country on a budget is not only possible but increasingly popular among Australians. The thrill of uncovering hidden gems and experiencing diverse cultures without overspending has made budget travel a desirable option for many. - read more

A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Travel Insurance Claims Hassle-Free

Travel insurance is a crucial aspect of planning a trip, especially for Australian travelers who venture far and wide. With the vast array of destinations Australians frequent, from exploring the natural wonders of the Outback to adventuring abroad, having a safety net in place can provide peace of mind. - read more

Visa-Free Travel for Australians: A Look at Some Exciting Destinations

Travelling is one of life’s great joys, and for Australians, visa-free travel opens up a world of opportunities. The convenience and freedom that come with not needing a visa cannot be overstated. With just your passport in hand, you can explore countless destinations without the hassle of paperwork. This kind of travel liberty offers a spontaneous, exhilarating experience, allowing you to book a last-minute trip without worrying about securing a visa beforehand. - read more

Knowledgebase

Depreciation:
The reduction in the value of an asset over time, used in insurance to calculate the actual cash value of property.

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.