Life Insurance Takes Backseat in Cost-Cutting Measures
Life Insurance Takes Backseat in Cost-Cutting Measures
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.
As Australians tighten their belts in the face of rising living costs, life insurance is rapidly being placed on the chopping block.
The Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reports that individuals are more likely to reduce life cover rather than home or car insurance.
Recent findings indicate a significant disparity between those holding different types of insurances. Approximately 79% of the population has motor insurance, yet only 34% have life insurance according to the independent research conducted by the council.
The survey, which examined the behaviors of 5,000 people, highlights a particularly stark gap among individuals aged 55 to 64. More than 80% maintain motor or home insurance, but a mere 29% have acquired life insurance. Age groups 35-54 show that 38% hold life cover whereas this number drops to 32% for younger adults.
Interestingly, working Australians are three times more likely to drop their life insurance as compared to home or car policies, underlining a trend that could have long-term financial ramifications. Additionally, about 50% of those surveyed suggest they would stop superannuation contributions if it meant reducing expenses.
According to CALI CEO Christine Cupitt, the situation accentuates the “advice accessibility crisis in this country.” She explained, "The advice needs of Australians are not being met, particularly for those who can’t afford to pay for a financial adviser in a cost-of-living crisis."
Cupitt stresses the importance of receiving proper financial guidance, stating, “Getting the right advice can set them up for the future, getting no advice can leave them with nothing to fall back on when times get tough.”
Despite recognizing the importance of advice, over 40% of respondents expressed a desire for customized financial guidance. This need could potentially be met through tranche two of the federal government’s Delivering Better Financial Outcomes reforms, designed to bridge this gap.
This push for enhanced financial advice platforms underscores a larger narrative about the necessity for accessible, affordable advisory services, especially during challenging economic climates. According to the original report covered by the Council of Australian Life Insurers, ensuring Australians are adequately insured and advised is essential.
Published:Tuesday, 3rd Dec 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
Australian private health insurance premiums are set to rise by an average of 4.41% from 1 April 2026, marking the most significant increase since 2017. Health Minister Mark Butler stated that this adjustment reflects the escalating costs of medical and hospital services, which have risen by 5% over the past financial year. This increase is expected to impact over 15 million Australians who hold private health insurance policies. - read more
In response to escalating operational costs faced by private hospitals, health insurers have increased their payments to these facilities. Recent data indicates that payments to private hospitals have risen by 7.7% in the year leading up to March 2025. This adjustment aims to support private hospitals during a period of financial strain and to ensure the continued delivery of quality health care services. - read more
In a significant policy shift, Australian health insurers will begin offering rebates for a range of natural therapies, including Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Shiatsu, Naturopathy, Western herbal medicine, and the Alexander Technique, starting early 2026. This change follows legislative amendments allowing these therapies to be covered under private health insurance for the treatment of health conditions or as part of health management programs. - read more
As 2026 approaches, Australian insurers are facing a trio of pressing challenges: rising premium costs and shrinking insurability, escalating cyber and data risks, and increasing difficulty in hiring and retaining skilled workers. These concerns have been highlighted in industry feedback cited in Gallagher Bassett’s upcoming report, 'The Carrier Perspective: 2026 Claims Insights.' - read more
In recent times, Australian consumers have been grappling with substantial increases in insurance premiums, prompting widespread concern and calls for greater transparency within the industry. Reports indicate that some policyholders have experienced premium hikes of up to 600%, leaving many questioning the justification behind such steep increases. - read more
As the landscape of finance and personal security evolves in Australia, the importance of being insured has never been more prominent. In a world of changing family dynamics, economic pressures, and higher living costs, life insurance stands as a bastion of support ensuring the well-being of loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances. - read more
Choosing the right life insurance policy is one of the most important decisions for Australians, especially for those who are middle-aged or older. Life insurance provides financial security for your loved ones in the event of your passing, ensuring that they are not burdened with financial hardships. - read more
When it comes to life insurance, a pre-existing condition refers to any medical condition or illness that you have been diagnosed with before applying for a life insurance policy. - read more
Life insurance, a contract between an insurer and a policyholder, is designed to provide financial protection to loved ones in the event of the policyholder's death. For parents, this protection takes on a new level of significance. The birth of a child heralds a profound shift in priorities, with a focus on safeguarding the future of one's family. Hence, understanding life insurance options becomes a crucial aspect of responsible parenting. - read more
Life insurance is a crucial part of any comprehensive financial plan, providing peace of mind that your loved ones will be financially secure in the event of your passing. - read more
Start Here !
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!
Knowledgebase
Coverage: The amount of risk or liability covered for an individual or entity by way of insurance services.
