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Federal Members of Parliament (MPs) are set to investigate Northern Tasmania as part of their ongoing review of the insurance sector’s handling of the unprecedented 2022 floods.
The House Standing Committee on Economics will convene at the Paranaple Convention Centre in Devonport on July 17. Chairman Daniel Mulino expressed a keen interest in gaining comprehensive insights from local councils, businesses, and residents regarding their flood-related experiences.
In October 2022, flooding affected Northern Tasmania, alongside significant parts of Victoria and New South Wales (NSW). The Insurance Council of Australia reported that these floods led to $884 million in insured losses and nearly 23,000 claims being lodged, with an impressive closure rate of 95% for these claims.
The committee has reached out to councils, business groups, and community organizations, inviting them to participate in the hearing. Individuals are also encouraged to voice their experiences through submissions at the event or by completing the committee’s survey.
In recent months, the inquiry has reviewed flood-impacted areas across Victoria, NSW, and Queensland. Future hearings are planned for Cairns and Townsville on July 24 and 25, respectively.
The committee aims to publish its final report by September 30.
As mentioned in Insurance News Magazine, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones emphasized his decision to avoid "populist politics" when addressing affordability barriers in the insurance industry amidst these discussions.
In response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, Australian travel insurers have mobilised additional resources to support affected travellers. The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) announced that insurers are providing dedicated 24/7 assistance, coordinating medical care, and prioritising support for those in impacted regions. - read more
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has reported a notable gap between Australians' attitudes towards domestic travel insurance and the claims being paid. In the first eight and a half months of 2025, SCTI settled over $240,000 in claims for local and interstate trips. Despite this, only about 41% of Australians consider travel insurance a high priority for domestic trips, compared to 76% for international travel. - read more
Australian travellers are facing ongoing flight disruptions, with cancellation rates climbing above long-term averages. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics (BITRE), the national flight cancellation rate reached 2.6% in February 2025, exceeding the long-term average of 2.2%. On-time performance for both arrivals and departures also fell below historical benchmarks. - read more
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 Allianz Partners to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before travelling abroad. - read more
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has reported a notable rise in high-cost travel insurance claims, underscoring the escalating medical expenses faced by Australian travellers abroad. The insurer's most expensive claim last year amounted to $672,630, a 259% increase compared to the previous year's highest claim. - read more
Welcome to your guide to embark on an amazing journey from Australia to the breathtaking landscapes of Canada on a working holiday. This adventure presents an inviting blend of work and travel, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in Canadian culture while supporting your explorations financially. - read more
Travelling is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its own set of uncertainties. That's where travel insurance steps in, offering peace of mind by covering unforeseen expenses and emergencies. However, filing a travel insurance claim can sometimes be a daunting process. - read more
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
Welcome to a journey of discovery where the vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Southeast Asia await. Australian travellers have long been captivated by the allure of our northern neighbours, seeking adventures that not only promise unforgettable experiences but also offer remarkable value for money. - read more
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
Knowledgebase
Whole Life Insurance: A type of life insurance that provides coverage for the insured's entire lifetime, with a savings component that builds cash value.