Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Car Theft Claims Skyrocket, Raising Insurance Concerns

Car Theft Claims Skyrocket, Raising Insurance Concerns

Car Theft Claims Skyrocket, Raising Insurance Concerns?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.

The Insurance Council of Australia has unveiled substantial data revealing that the expense related to vehicle theft claims has almost doubled since 2015.
Last year, the industry handled $428 million in claims, signaling a stark increase from $218 million a decade ago.
The data comes from Insurance Statistics Australia, which has adjusted historic dollar values for inflation, highlighting an urgent trend in rising car crime claims.

Particularly striking is the 27% rise in claim numbers, growing from 22,000 to 28,000. Interestingly, this surge is primarily driven by regional areas in Australia, though metropolitan zones noted a slight decline. State-wise breakdown shows Queensland and Victoria witnessing the most significant rises in claims.

In Queensland, the total cost of vehicle theft claims soared to $113 million from $36 million in 2015, coinciding with a 32% rise in vehicle policies. Victoria reported 7,823 metro area thefts, costing $140 million, marking a notable escalation in both numbers and expenses.

Conversely, a decline in claim numbers was noted in Western Australia and New South Wales metropolitan areas, while South Australia saw a marginal increase. Overall, the number of vehicle policies escalated by 26%, reaching 12.1 million from 9.6 million in 2015.

Kylie Macfarlane, the deputy CEO of the ICA, pointed out the rising vehicle values and increasing costs of parts and labor as significant contributors to the upward pressure on premiums nationwide. She emphasized recognizing the frequency and cost of motor theft as documented by the industry, indicating widespread implications that could affect consumers broadly.

Insurance Statistics Australia, a voluntary body managing data for insurance stakeholders including the ICA, underscores the growing concern with its latest findings. This trend necessitates vigilance, given its potential impact on the insurance landscape and consumer costs.

Published:Monday, 24th Mar 2025
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 Proposes Reforms to Alleviate Small Business Insurance Expenses
ICA Proposes Reforms to Alleviate Small Business Insurance Expenses
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently highlighted the pressing need for reforms aimed at reducing the escalating insurance costs burdening small businesses across the nation. In a comprehensive white paper released on 15 October 2025, the ICA underscores how outdated state and territory civil liability laws, which have remained unreviewed for nearly a quarter of a century, are significantly contributing to the surge in insurance premiums. - read more
Escalating Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian SMEs
Escalating Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian SMEs
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent reports have brought to light the growing concern among Australian small businesses regarding the steep rise in insurance premiums. According to a submission by Business Chamber Queensland to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services, insurance costs have now surpassed other common financial pressures such as energy, wages, and fuel for many small enterprises. - read more
Top Five Insurance Trends Impacting Australian SMEs in 2026
Top Five Insurance Trends Impacting Australian SMEs in 2026
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
As Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) navigate the complexities of the current business environment, staying abreast of emerging insurance trends is crucial. A recent analysis has identified five key trends that are set to shape the insurance landscape for SMEs in 2026. - read more
Australian Non-Life Insurance Sector Demonstrates Robust Growth
Australian Non-Life Insurance Sector Demonstrates Robust Growth
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia's non-life insurance industry has showcased remarkable resilience in the face of an increasingly complex risk environment. According to a recent report by AM Best, the sector achieved a total insurance revenue of approximately AUD 77.7 billion for the fiscal year ending 30 June 2025. This performance underscores the industry's capacity to navigate volatile market conditions effectively. - read more
Australian Insurers Face AUD 4.8 Billion in Losses from 2025 Extreme Weather
Australian Insurers Face AUD 4.8 Billion in Losses from 2025 Extreme Weather
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has released new data indicating that extreme weather events in 2025 resulted in insured losses totaling AUD 4.8 billion. This figure represents a significant 727% increase compared to the previous year, underscoring the escalating impact of climate-related incidents on the insurance sector. - read more
Australian Health Insurance Premiums Set to Increase by 4.41% in 2026
Australian Health Insurance Premiums Set to Increase by 4.41% in 2026
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has approved a 4.41% increase in health insurance premiums, set to take effect in 2026. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions about the sustainability and affordability of private health insurance in the country. - read more
Swiss Re Suspends New Life Insurance Operations in Australia
Swiss Re Suspends New Life Insurance Operations in Australia
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Swiss Re Life & Health Australia has announced a suspension of new life insurance business activities in the country, effective October 2025. This decision stems from concerns over the sustainability of Total Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance products, which have seen a significant rise in claims, particularly those related to mental health. - read more
AIA Australia Highlights Structural Shifts in Life Insurance Industry
AIA Australia Highlights Structural Shifts in Life Insurance Industry
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
AIA Australia CEO Damien Mu has cautioned that the life and health insurance industries are facing structural changes driven by mounting mental health claims, rising premiums, and ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Speaking during the company's online Thrive for Life presentation, Mu highlighted that economic volatility, regulatory changes, and affordability challenges are rendering current life insurance models unsustainable. - read more
Regulators Assess Life Insurers' Progress on Premium Practices
Regulators Assess Life Insurers' Progress on Premium Practices
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) have released an update on the progress life insurers have made in addressing issues related to premium increases, product design, and disclosure and marketing materials. This follows previous notifications amid growing concerns that frequent, large, and unexpected premium increases may not have been applied in accordance with policy terms and may not have met reasonable policyholder expectations. - read more
Australia Prohibits Use of Genetic Test Results in Life Insurance Underwriting
Australia Prohibits Use of Genetic Test Results in Life Insurance Underwriting
24 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant development for the Australian life insurance industry, the Parliament has passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Genetic Testing Protections in Life Insurance and Other Measures) Act 2025. This legislation, enacted on 1 April 2026, prohibits insurers from using genetic test results to influence underwriting decisions for life, income protection, or trauma insurance policies. The ban is set to take effect on 8 October 2026. - read more


Farm Insurance Articles

5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs
5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs
Farming in Australia is not just a job, it's a way of life. However, it’s also a livelihood that comes with its own unique set of risks. From unexpected weather events to machinery breakdowns, the life of an Australian farmer is fraught with uncertainties. - read more
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment
In the world of agriculture, having the right insurance coverage is essential. Farming is a high-risk industry that deals with unpredictable elements, and insuring your farm equipment can safeguard your livelihood. - read more
What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance
What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance
Crop insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to protect farmers from the financial losses that arise from damages to their crops. This could be due to various risks, including adverse weather conditions, pests, and diseases. - read more
A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology
A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology
Farming is a vital industry in Australia, requiring significant investment in equipment, crops, livestock, and labour. As with any major investment, protecting it is crucial. That's where farm insurance comes in. - read more
Investing in Your Farm's Legacy: Estate Planning and Farm Insurance Combined
Investing in Your Farm's Legacy: Estate Planning and Farm Insurance Combined
Farming is much more than an occupation; it's a way of life and a heritage that often spans generations. In today's ever-evolving agricultural landscape, embracing modern practices while preserving your farm's future has never been more crucial. Estate planning emerges as a pivotal strategy for safeguarding your agricultural legacy, ensuring that your hard-earned investments and the land you hold dear are passed on according to your wishes. - read more
Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums
Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on navigating the complexities of farm insurance for Australian farmers. As an integral part of the agricultural industry, insurance provides a safety net that helps secure the livelihood of farmers against unpredictable events that can lead to financial hardship. From property damage due to natural disasters to loss of livestock or crops, having adequate farm insurance can make all the difference in keeping a farming operation afloat in times of crisis. - read more
Tractors, Livestock, and Crops: Tailoring Your Farm Insurance to Fit Your Needs
Tractors, Livestock, and Crops: Tailoring Your Farm Insurance to Fit Your Needs
Welcome to the world of farming, where the fruits of your labor are as tangible as the soil you till. But just as the land is subject to the whims of nature, so too is the business of agriculture. This is where farm insurance becomes essential. Farmers face a set of challenges and uncertainties unlike any other industry, primarily due to the unpredictable forces of weather. - read more
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Hobby farming has become increasingly popular in Australia, with many individuals and families embracing the joys of growing their own produce, raising livestock, and enjoying a rural lifestyle. Whether it's a small vegetable garden, a few chickens, or a larger mixed farming operation, hobby farms offer both relaxation and a connection to nature. - read more
Future-Proofing the Farm: What Every Tech-Savvy Australian Farmer Needs to Know About Insurance
Future-Proofing the Farm: What Every Tech-Savvy Australian Farmer Needs to Know About Insurance
Welcome to the first steps in future-proofing your farming legacy. When we think about the hustle and bustle of daily farm life, it's easy to overlook the critical importance of estate planning. For the Australian farmer, estate planning is not just a matter of securing your assets; it's about ensuring the survival and progression of your hard-earned labour to the next generation. - read more
How to Safeguard Your Farm: A Guide for Australian Farmers
How to Safeguard Your Farm: A Guide for Australian Farmers
Farming is inherently risky. With factors like weather, pests, and market fluctuations affecting crops, it's crucial to manage these risks effectively. - read more


Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Farm Type:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.


Knowledgebase
Liability Insurance:
A type of insurance that provides protection against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people and/or property.