A Path to Stability: Expert Pushes for Insurers to Adopt Total Replacement Coverage

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.

At the core of the issue, Trowbridge emphasized, is the prevalent dependence on clients to select their own sum insured. This widely adopted practice across the insurance industry often leads to imprecise coverage levels and exposes homeowners to substantial financial risk when calamities strike. The key anxiety for consumers lies in accurately anticipating reconstruction costs, a task that many find challenging and imposing. Trowbridge argues against the industry's attitude of absolving itself from verifying coverage adequacy, illuminating the dire repercussions faced by those enduring disaster with insufficient insurance.

In a written testament to the inquiry, Trowbridge stoutly advocated for broader availability of full replacement insurance options. A transition he posits would not overly burden premiums given the relatively infrequent nature of total loss incidents. "It should only make a negligible impact," he assured the investigative panel.

Trowbridge opened the floor to considering regulatory shifts to compel insurers to adopt such practices. However, he acknowledged the complexity of reaching effective solutions to what he identifies as a prevalent and unreasonable problem.

The discourse shifted momentarily to the insurance sector’s response post-Canterbury earthquakes, noting New Zealand's departure from full replacement policies as reinsurers eyed more predictable outcomes. Trowbridge countered this hesitation with an argument for the Australian insurance and reinsurance market's adaptability, drawing parallels to the unanimity achieved in introducing mandatory flood coverage years past.

Some providers, including AAMI, maintain such full replacement offers, pointing to feasible paths ahead. What may seem an onerous task for insurers and their reinsurance partners is, according to Trowbridge, a matter of confronting the same challenge with renewed resolve.

As the inquiry continues, the Economics Committee of the House of Representatives hears diverse perspectives, ranging from consumer advocates to industry representatives. In the coming months, the committee aims to ground its findings with on-site visits to regions thrashed by floods, understanding the real-world aftermath and insurance landscape.

The ultimate goal is to crystallize observations and recommendations by the end of September, laying down firm tracks for policy shifts and industry practices that may finally mitigate the insidious underinsurance that plagues Australian homeowners.

Published:Tuesday, 2nd Apr 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Australian Insurers Under Fire for Steep Premium Increases

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In recent times, Australian insurance companies have come under intense scrutiny due to substantial increases in premiums, even as they report record profits. This trend has raised concerns among consumers and policymakers alike, prompting calls for enhanced transparency and competition within the industry. - read more

Rising Insurance Costs in Northern Australia Despite Reinsurance Efforts

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Homeowners in Northern Australia are confronting significant increases in insurance premiums, even after the implementation of the federal government's cyclone reinsurance pool aimed at reducing costs in cyclone-prone regions. This development raises questions about the effectiveness of current measures and the ongoing challenges in making insurance affordable for residents in high-risk areas. - read more

Lack of Transparency in Insurance Premium Increases Concerns Consumers

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Australian consumers are increasingly facing substantial hikes in their insurance premiums, often with little to no explanation from their providers. This lack of transparency has led to growing frustration and calls for greater accountability within the insurance industry. - read more

AIA Australia's New Partnerships to Encourage Cycling Among Members

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

AIA Australia, a prominent life, health, and wellbeing insurer, has announced strategic partnerships with global fitness company Peloton and premium cycling brand Specialized. These collaborations aim to motivate AIA Vitality members to adopt more active lifestyles by providing significant discounts on cycling equipment. - read more

Bupa's Strategic Expansion into Mental Health Services

29 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Bupa, a leading health insurer in Australia, has unveiled plans to significantly enhance mental health services by establishing a network of clinics named Mindplace. This initiative aims to open 60 clinics nationwide by 2027, aligning closely with the government's objective of operating 61 walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres by mid-2026. - read more

Click for more Insurance News