Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

NSW Government Targets Predatory Practice of Claim Farming

NSW Government Targets Predatory Practice of Claim Farming

NSW Government Targets Predatory Practice of Claim Farming?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 New South Wales Government is taking decisive action against 'claim farming', a predatory practice that exploits vulnerable individuals by pressuring them to file compensation claims.
This practice often involves unethical tactics targeting susceptible groups, including child abuse survivors.
To combat this, the government is set to introduce the Claim Farming Practices Prohibition Bill 2025.

This newly proposed legislation aims to achieve three core objectives:

  1. Ban individuals from contacting others to induce them into making compensation claims.
  2. Prohibit the buying or selling of claim referrals.
  3. Forbid lawyers convicted under these offences from charging legal fees related to the claim and mandate refunds of any received costs.

Claim farmers are known to acquire personal information without consent to make unsolicited contacts, often using coercive tactics like harassment and intimidation. Such practices inflict considerable distress on victim-survivors, pushing them to file claims under duress.

Additionally, these claim farmers typically demand referral fees from law firms or other claim farming entities, frequently making misleading promises regarding legal entitlements that may not serve the claimants' best interests.

The introduction of this bill specifically targets claim farming activities related to personal injury claims under the Civil Liability Act 2002, and cases arising from intentional torts. These legal areas include serious injuries, medical negligence, and acts such as child abuse and assault.

Despite these new measures, existing offences such as fraud remain applicable alongside the new bill. Under current laws, deceiving for a financial advantage can result in a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Importantly, this legislative move will not hinder abuse survivors from pursuing valid compensation claims; they can still seek legal assistance by directly contacting lawyers.

The Attorney General, Michael Daley, expressed the government's intent: highlighting the troubling nature of profiting from vulnerable groups, particularly child sexual abuse survivors. The government's response underscores their commitment to addressing community concerns and curtailing this harmful practice.

Published:Friday, 28th 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

Hutch Underwriting's New Landlord Insurance Policy Integrates Cyber Protection
Hutch Underwriting's New Landlord Insurance Policy Integrates Cyber Protection
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In August 2025, Hutch Underwriting unveiled a new landlord insurance product tailored for Australian residential property owners. This policy stands out by incorporating built-in cyber protection, addressing the growing digital risks landlords face in today's interconnected world. - read more
Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Risk Preparedness
Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Risk Preparedness
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in terms of risk preparedness. The survey, which gathered insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, indicates that Australian insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index compared to the global average. - read more
Market Concentration in Australian Insurance Industry Sparks Debate
Market Concentration in Australian Insurance Industry Sparks Debate
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian general insurance market is currently dominated by four major companies-Insurance Australia Group (IAG), Suncorp, QBE, and Allianz-which collectively control nearly 75% of the market. This high level of concentration has raised concerns about its impact on consumers, particularly regarding rising premiums and limited competition. - read more
Surge in Profits for Australian Insurers Amid Premium Hikes
Surge in Profits for Australian Insurers Amid Premium Hikes
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In 2024, Australia's insurance industry reported an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a figure that is three times higher than the five-year average of $2 billion. This substantial increase in profitability coincides with significant hikes in insurance premiums, raising questions about the balance between industry earnings and consumer affordability. - read more
Surging Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian Retirees
Surging Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian Retirees
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian retirees are increasingly facing financial challenges due to escalating insurance premiums. Reports indicate that some individuals have experienced premium hikes of up to 400%, placing significant strain on those living on fixed incomes. - read more
Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Risk Preparedness
Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Risk Preparedness
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are trailing their global counterparts in risk preparedness. The survey, which gathered insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, indicates that Australian insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index compared to the global average. - read more
Health Insurance Premiums in Australia to Rise by 4.41% in 2026
Health Insurance Premiums in Australia to Rise by 4.41% in 2026
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian health insurance policyholders are set to experience a 4.41% increase in premiums, effective from April 1, 2026. Health Minister Mark Butler approved this adjustment, marking the most substantial annual hike since 2017. - read more
Escalating Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian Retirees
Escalating Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian Retirees
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian retirees are facing mounting financial pressures as insurance premiums continue to rise, potentially turning their golden years into a period of economic hardship. The Financial Rights Legal Centre has reported instances where individuals on fixed incomes have experienced premium increases of up to 400%, making it nearly impossible for them to absorb these costs. - read more
Australian Life Insurance Market Experiences Notable Recovery
Australian Life Insurance Market Experiences Notable Recovery
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
After enduring six years of decline following the Royal Commission, Australia's life insurance market has reported a significant 20.7% surge in new business volumes during the second quarter of 2025. This increase marks the first substantial recovery in the sector, suggesting a potential turnaround. - read more
Australia Enacts Ban on Genetic Discrimination in Life Insurance
Australia Enacts Ban on Genetic Discrimination in Life Insurance
20 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In a landmark move, Australia has passed legislation prohibiting life insurers from using individuals' genetic test results in underwriting decisions. This reform aims to eliminate barriers that previously deterred Australians from undergoing potentially life-saving genetic testing due to fears of insurance discrimination. - read more


Farm Insurance Articles

The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
As the backbone of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays an essential role in day-to-day operations across our expansive and diverse landscapes. From the vast wheat belts to the tropical fruit farms, machinery ensures efficiency and productivity in the face of constant challenges. But with reliance on such equipment comes significant risk—the financial burden of damage or loss can be devastating to a farmer's livelihood. - 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
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
The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age
The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age
Welcome to the defining era where technology and agriculture entwine, bringing forth the digital farmer's era. With the evolution of agribusiness in the tech age, comes an array of new tools, opportunities, and risks. As a custodian of the earth and steward of the latest innovations, safeguarding your digital farm is just as crucial as nurturing your crops and livestock. - 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
Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It?
Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It?
Farm liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects farmers from financial losses due to legal claims and lawsuits. This insurance is crucial for safeguarding your farm against various liabilities that may arise from farm operations. - read more
Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers
Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers
Australian farmers face an array of natural disasters that can threaten livelihoods and disrupt the delicate balance of agricultural ecosystems. From devastating bushfires and droughts to powerful storms and floods, these catastrophic events pose serious risks to the farming community. Understanding and preparing for these forces is not just about survival; it's about building a sustainable future for farms across the continent. - read more
How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance
How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance
Farming, at its core, is an enterprise fraught with uncertainty. Weather calamities, pests, diseases, and fluctuating market conditions can all impact the output and quality of produce. This is where crop insurance proves its worth, serving as a safety net for farmers against the myriad risks they face each season. - read more
Protecting Your Herd: The Aussie Farmer's Guide to Livestock Insurance
Protecting Your Herd: The Aussie Farmer's Guide to Livestock Insurance
For Australian farmers, livestock is more than just a vital asset; it's the heartbeat of their livelihood. In a land where the sunburnt plains are as relentless as they are beautiful, protecting your herd isn't just a duty; it's a necessity. That's where livestock insurance comes into play—a shield against the unpredictability of Mother Nature. - 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


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
Coinsurance:
A percentage of the cost of a covered healthcare service that you pay after you have paid your deductible.