ACCC Strengthens Position Against Broker Commissions

1

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 issue stems from the practice where broker commissions are often based on premium amounts, potentially discouraging brokers from pursuing more cost-effective coverage or options that pay lower or no commissions for clients. Despite full disclosure of such remuneration to consumers, the ACCC argues that the inherent conflict remains problematic.

ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb, in the submission, underlined that while some consumers might resist an upfront fee akin to commissions, the transition challenges away from conflicted remuneration models do not justify retaining exemptions permitting them. This echoes a broader reform ethos initiated by the federal government in 2023, stipulating that brokers must secure client consent to receive commissions when providing personal advice.

NSW Fair Trading, in its independent review of strata sector practices, has also highlighted the need for the broking code of practice to enhance commission practices. Commissioner Natasha Mann advocates for bolstered disclosure obligations, promoting transparency in brokers' remuneration and ownership structures, coupled with robust compliance monitoring mechanisms.

Further perspectives include those from consultant John Trowbridge, who supports the continuation of commissions but emphasizes the necessity for brokers to transparently disclose all commission-related earnings. Trowbridge also suggests that the National Insurance Brokers Association offer guidelines to elucidate conflict management and fiduciary responsibilities within the industry.

The WA Small Business Development Corporation has expressed support for widening the disclosure requirements scope, advocating for the inclusion of small businesses. By aligning with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority rules, small enterprises, often with limited resources, stand to benefit from an expanded definition that enhances clarity on financial incentives influencing broker services.

The industry awaits further developments from the review, led by Phil Khoury, as its submission deadline approaches.

Published:Friday, 2nd May 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Surge in Mental Health Claims Challenges Australia's Income Protection Insurance

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent data from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveals a significant shift in the landscape of income protection insurance in Australia. Mental health conditions have emerged as the leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims, accounting for nearly one-third of all claims paid. In 2024 alone, insurers disbursed over $2.2 billion for retail mental health claims, a figure that has almost doubled compared to five years prior. - read more

Decline in Income Protection Premiums Reflects Market Adjustments in Australia

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent research from Rainmaker Information indicates a notable decrease in income protection insurance premiums across Australia. Direct income protection premiums have fallen by 12% for policies with a 30-day waiting period and 13% for those with a 90-day waiting period since 2024. Similarly, premiums for life products sold through advisers have decreased by 5%, with income protection premiums dropping by 7% for 30-day waiting periods and 5% for 90-day periods. - read more

Superannuation Insurance Extends Coverage to 6 Million More Australians

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

New research from the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) reveals that superannuation insurance now provides critical protection to over 6 million Australians who would otherwise be uninsured. This expansion has been achieved without impacting household spending, as the coverage is included within superannuation contributions. - read more

Adore Beauty's Strategic Acquisition of Ikou Enhances Market Presence

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move within the Australian beauty industry, Adore Beauty has announced the acquisition of wellness and skincare brand Ikou for $25 million. This strategic decision aims to bolster Adore Beauty's private label offerings and marks its entry into the physical retail space. - read more

Government Scrutinizes Health Insurers' Pricing Practices

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Health Minister Mark Butler has issued a stern warning to private health insurers regarding the use of 'underhanded' tactics to raise premiums. This comes in response to findings that some insurers have been closing old policies and introducing more expensive ones, effectively increasing costs for consumers. - read more

AMA Highlights Declining Value in Private Health Insurance

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has released a report indicating that private health insurance is increasingly failing to deliver value for money. The report highlights that premiums have risen sharply, outpacing inflation and wage growth, while nearly 70% of policies now contain exclusions for specific treatments or conditions. - read more

Comprehensive Professional Indemnity Insurance Now Available for Australian Tradies

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Hutch Underwriting has recently unveiled enhanced professional indemnity (PI) insurance policies specifically designed for Australian tradespeople. These new offerings aim to provide comprehensive coverage by integrating advice, design, and incidental cyber exposures into a single solution. - read more

New Partnership Brings Specialised Insurance Solutions to Australian Tradies

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for Australia's trades sector, digital agency Viz has partnered with Ivory Insurance to offer specialised insurance coverage tailored for tradies and small business owners. This collaboration aims to address the unique risks faced by professionals in various trades, providing comprehensive protection and peace of mind. - read more

Simplified Insurance Solutions Now Available for Australian Tradespeople

25 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Hutch Underwriting has launched Trade Pack, a new insurance solution designed to meet the diverse needs of Australian tradespeople while minimizing administrative complexities. This offering is tailored for trades such as bricklayers, carpenters, landscapers, painters, and shop fitters, providing a streamlined approach to insurance coverage. - read more

WFI Insurance and Farmsafe Australia Join Forces to Boost Farm Safety Standards

24 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to enhance safety within the Australian agricultural sector, WFI Insurance has partnered with Farmsafe Australia. This collaboration is designed to raise awareness about farming hazards and advocate for the adoption of safer work practices among farmers. - read more

Click for more Insurance News