Push for Strata Insurance Reform Escalates After PICA's Withdrawal Threat
Push for Strata Insurance Reform Escalates After PICA's Withdrawal Threat
0
The debate over transparency in strata insurance has intensified following reports that PICA Group, Australia's largest strata management company, threatened to withdraw its membership from the Strata Community Association (SCA) New South Wales.
This move comes as the SCA pushes to phase out commissions on strata insurance, a practice long criticised for creating conflicts of interest between strata managers and property owners.
Consumer advocacy groups, including the Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby (ACIL) and the Owners Corporation Network of Australia (OCN), have called on the New South Wales government to advance reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within the strata insurance sector. They argue that the current commission-based remuneration model can lead to higher costs for property owners and potential conflicts of interest.
The proposed reforms include transitioning to a fee-for-service model, which would provide clearer visibility of costs and services for property owners. This shift aims to align the interests of strata managers and property owners more closely, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the strata community.
For strata property owners, this development highlights the importance of staying informed about the financial arrangements within their strata schemes. Engaging with strata managers to understand fee structures, advocating for transparent practices, and participating in discussions about potential reforms can help ensure that their interests are adequately represented and protected.
Strata communities are at the forefront of Australia's resilience battle, facing escalating costs, declining coverage, and prolonged recovery periods following disasters. Strata Community Association Australasia (SCA) has expressed strong support for the Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) recent call for coordinated, long-term resilience reforms to protect communities from these challenges. - read more
The debate over transparency in strata insurance has intensified following reports that PICA Group, Australia's largest strata management company, threatened to withdraw its membership from the Strata Community Association (SCA) New South Wales. This move comes as the SCA pushes to phase out commissions on strata insurance, a practice long criticised for creating conflicts of interest between strata managers and property owners. - read more
In 2026, Australian insurers are placing a strong emphasis on premium affordability as they confront escalating claims costs and climate-related losses. This shift in focus is driven by a combination of factors that are reshaping the insurance landscape. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has unveiled its enforcement priorities for 2026, placing a significant emphasis on the insurance sector. Key areas of focus include failures in insurance claims and complaints handling, as well as misleading pricing practices that may impact Australians' cost of living. - read more
Australian retirees are increasingly facing financial strain due to rising insurance premiums, which are impacting affordability and quality of life. This trend is particularly concerning for those on fixed incomes, who find it challenging to absorb the escalating costs. - read more
Australians are set to experience a notable rise in private health insurance premiums, with an average increase of 4.41% scheduled to take effect from April 1, 2026. This adjustment marks the most substantial annual hike since 2017, when premiums rose by 4.84%. - read more
In the heart of New Zealand's pastoral verdure, the significance of preparedness for natural disasters is paramount for the farming industry. The distinct landscape, while providing an idyllic backdrop for agricultural pursuits, is not without its challenges. Farmers are often at the mercy of nature's unpredictability, making disaster preparedness not just prudent but essential for the continuity of their livelihood. - read more
Those who work the land know that every farm has its own heartbeat - its unique rhythm defined by the crops it yields, the livestock it nurtures, and the natural environment it exists within. Recognizing this individuality is crucial, especially when it comes to safeguarding your agricultural investment with the right insurance policy. - read more
Farming is a vital part of New Zealand's economy and cultural heritage, representing a way of life for thousands across the country. With its unique landscapes and diverse climate, New Zealand farmers are renowned for producing a wide array of high-quality products that serve not only the nation's needs but also supply a multitude of international markets. - read more
New Zealand's farming community forms the backbone of its thriving agricultural sector, yet many overlook the critical importance of proactive estate planning. With farmland often being held within families for generations, securing its future is not just a financial concern, but a deeply personal one as well. - read more
The agricultural landscape of New Zealand is lush with pastures and livestock, making the need for comprehensive livestock insurance an essential consideration for any farmer. As stewards of these precious resources, farmers understand the importance of safeguarding their livelihood against unforeseen events. Livestock insurance stands as a vital tool in a farmer's risk management arsenal, designed to protect against the potential financial devastation that could arise from loss of livestock. - read more
For farmers across rural Australia, the unyielding dry spells brought on by persistent drought conditions are not just an environmental concern but a significant financial challenge. Effective financial planning becomes a cornerstone strategy for ensuring the resilience and longevity of these crucial agricultural businesses. The prickling heat and parched earth serve as stark reminders of nature's capacity to impact livelihoods, especially when the rain doesn't grace the farmlands for extended periods. - read more
Those who work the land know that every farm has its own heartbeat - its unique rhythm defined by the crops it yields, the livestock it nurtures, and the natural environment it exists within. Recognizing this individuality is crucial, especially when it comes to safeguarding your agricultural investment with the right insurance policy. - read more
In the heart of New Zealand's pastoral verdure, the significance of preparedness for natural disasters is paramount for the farming industry. The distinct landscape, while providing an idyllic backdrop for agricultural pursuits, is not without its challenges. Farmers are often at the mercy of nature's unpredictability, making disaster preparedness not just prudent but essential for the continuity of their livelihood. - read more
Farming is a vital part of New Zealand's economy and cultural heritage, representing a way of life for thousands across the country. With its unique landscapes and diverse climate, New Zealand farmers are renowned for producing a wide array of high-quality products that serve not only the nation's needs but also supply a multitude of international markets. - read more
Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Knowledgebase
Insurance: In law and economics, insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against the risk of potential financial loss.
