Transformation Needed in Life Insurance Sector for Customer Satisfaction

Why Insurers Must Evolve to Meet Changing Client Expectations

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.

Insurance companies in Australia and other developed economies are grappling with meeting the evolving demands of clients, reveals a recent report by Capgemini.

The World Life Insurance study conducted by the consultancy highlights that a significant number of policyholders are dissatisfied, with one out of three finding policy terms too complex, and 27% expressing discontent with arduous application procedures.

Moreover, after policy acquisition, 25% of both retail and group clients express annoyance over prolonged waiting periods, while 23% are disappointed by the lack of accessible self-service features for policy modifications.

The process of claims has emerged as another pain point, particularly due to insufficient digitization. Approximately one-third of retail clients report facing a convoluted claims process, and 27% have cited a lack of empathy during their interactions.

According to the report, the industry is urgently reviewing its customer interaction strategies, mainly because penetration rates are declining in established markets.

“In an environment marked by high inflation and economic uncertainties, there is a tepid interest in conventional life insurance offerings,” observes the report.

Interestingly, even though increased interest rates have buoyed insurers' recent fiscal outcomes, the report warns that any short-term profitability could be overshadowed by long-term sluggish industry growth.

The push towards enhancing customer experience for most insurers is impeded by outdated infrastructure, the hesitance to embrace new technological innovations, and regulatory constraints, as indicated by Capgemini.

Insurers acknowledge the urgent need for modernization, yet merely 41% have succeeded in achieving or surpassing their recent modernization targets. Transforming customer interactions through factors like AI-enhanced human interface and boosting operational efficiency stands as an avenue for regaining the market edge.

“The growth opportunity is vast. It is crucial now to rejuvenate the intrinsic worth of life insurance products,” affirms Capgemini.

The findings of the report are drawn from surveys conducted with consumers and industry executives between May and June.

Published:Wednesday, 23rd Oct 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Allianz Australia Penalised for Misleading Travel Insurance Information

15 Jan 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

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

15 Jan 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

Seafood Business Wins Insurance Dispute Over Storm-Induced Power Outage

15 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

A recent ruling by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has significant implications for businesses seeking insurance compensation for losses due to power outages caused by natural disasters. In this case, a seafood distribution company experienced substantial stock losses when a storm-induced power outage left its refrigeration systems inoperable for a week. The insurer initially denied the claim, citing a flood exclusion clause. - read more

Insurance Council Advocates for Liability Law Overhaul to Curb Rising Premiums

15 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has called for urgent reforms to civil liability laws to address the escalating costs of liability insurance premiums affecting businesses nationwide. In a recently released white paper, the ICA highlights the need to review state-based civil liability laws that have remained unchanged for nearly 25 years. The report identifies key areas requiring attention, including psychological injuries, worker-to-worker claims, and leisure and recreational risks. - read more