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Cybersecurity Gaps in Australian Insurance Industry Exposed

Survey Reveals Australian Insurers' Lag in Digital Security Preparedness

Cybersecurity Gaps in Australian Insurance Industry Exposed?w=400

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The latest PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey indicates that Australian insurers are trailing their global counterparts in preparedness for emerging risks, particularly in the realms of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).
The survey, which gathered insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, reveals that Australian insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index compared to the global industry average.

Digital security threats remain the foremost concern for Australian insurers. However, the rapid ascent of AI-related risks, now ranking third after climbing from eleventh place in just two years, underscores the accelerating pace of technological challenges facing the industry.

Antonie Jagga, leader of PwC’s insurance operations in Australia, emphasises the urgency of addressing these gaps. He notes that the swift evolution of cyber and AI risks is creating a preparedness gap that did not exist two years ago, with Australian insurers feeling less equipped to manage these challenges compared to their global peers.

To bridge this gap, Australian insurers are encouraged to invest in developing skilled workforces adept in AI applications, particularly in areas such as underwriting, pricing assessments, and claims management. Modernising technological infrastructure is also crucial, as it enables faster service delivery, more accurate risk assessments, and streamlined processing across various functions.

For real estate professionals, this situation highlights the importance of partnering with insurers who prioritise robust cybersecurity measures. Ensuring that your insurance provider has a strong digital security framework can safeguard sensitive client information and maintain the integrity of your business operations. Additionally, staying informed about the evolving landscape of cyber threats and implementing proactive risk management strategies can further protect your agency from potential vulnerabilities.

Published:Tuesday, 21st Apr 2026
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.

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Knowledgebase
Occupational Hazard:
A risk associated with the nature of a particular occupation, which may affect insurance premiums.