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 Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has opened a detailed examination into significant mergers in the motor insurance market.
The acquisitions under review include Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) endeavor to acquire RACQ Insurance and Allianz Australia's agreement to purchase RAA Insurance.
Stakeholders are urged to present their opinions on these mergers by February 14. The ACCC has scheduled to either finalize decisions or release public statements indicating any concerns by April 24.
Industry experts predict the ACCC’s primary focus will be on IAG’s strategic move to bolster its position in Queensland, especially given RACQ's established presence as one of the state's front-runners in personal insurance products.
According to the ACCC, “IAG and RACQI both provide personal lines general insurance, including home, contents and motor vehicle insurance, and acquire ancillary repair services, including smash repair services, windscreen repair and replacement services, and building repair services.”
The primary objective of the inquiry is to assess the competitive dynamics between the involved parties, measure the influence of other service providers on the proposed new entity, and understand the implications for pricing and service quality in personal insurance lines. Additionally, the inquiry will delve into how IAG's enhanced scale might impact its dealings with supplementary service suppliers.
For the Allianz and RAA agreement, there are concerns about market overlap in key insurance sectors, including home, contents, and car insurance. The ACCC has posed related inquiries for this deal as well.
IAG's proposed $855 million acquisition aims to secure a 90% stake in RACQ's insurance segment, coupled with a potential to purchase the remaining 10% in the coming years. A long-term distribution relationship spanning 25 years is also part of the agreement.
Almost concurrently, Allianz Australia announced its $642 million commitment to acquire RAA's insurance business, which similarly involves a lengthy distribution partnership lasting 20 years.
It is noteworthy that both acquisitions exclude the roadside assistance services and other membership-based activities that RACQ and RAA are widely recognized for.
Inquiries from the ACCC also pertain to whether Queensland and South Australia should be perceived as distinct geographic markets and if the insurers are recognized for competitive pricing, innovation, or aggressive market strategies.
The ACCC is also collecting data on market shares by sectors, upcoming or recent market developments, and entry hurdles for new players.
In line with these developments, letters seeking feedback have been dispatched regarding each proposed acquisition. Detailed information and queries originate from the initial discussions, as outlined in the source content.
Published:Wednesday, 5th Feb 2025 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
CHU, Australia's leading strata insurance underwriting agency, has significantly increased its capacity to underwrite individual strata risks, now offering coverage up to $690 million. This substantial rise from the previous limit of $300 million is a strategic response to the evolving landscape of strata developments, which are becoming larger and more complex. - read more
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has called for significant reforms to Victoria's strata legislation, citing a direct link between inadequate governance and escalating insurance premiums for residents. With approximately one in five Victorians living in strata-titled properties, the need for effective management and oversight has become increasingly critical. - read more
The Australian construction insurance market has experienced a notable shift in 2025, with premiums decreasing across various lines due to intensified competition among insurers. According to Marsh's Construction Insurance Market Update 2025, the first half of the year saw average premium reductions ranging from 5% to 15%, marking a significant departure from the upward trend observed in 2024. - read more
Australia's construction sector continues to grapple with elevated cost pressures, prompting builders to reassess their insurance and risk management strategies. Gallagher reports that overall construction costs have increased by over 30%, influenced by supply chain disruptions, inflation, and labour shortages. - read more
The South Australian Government has taken decisive action to bolster homeowner protection in response to a surge in builder insolvencies. Effective from 1 October 2025, the maximum insurance payout for homeowners will increase from $150,000 to $250,000. This measure aims to provide greater financial security to homeowners left with incomplete or defective properties due to builder failures. - read more
The digital age has fundamentally transformed how we approach almost every aspect of our lives, including the way we shop for life insurance in Australia. Gone are the days when one had to schedule meetings with insurance agents or flip through pamphlets to understand life insurance policies. Today, obtaining life insurance quotes online has become the norm, offering a hassle-free and incredibly accessible platform for individuals to safeguard their financial future. - 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 is an essential safety net for families, providing financial security when it's needed the most. As your family grows, the importance of having a well-structured life insurance policy becomes even more critical. In the busy lives we lead today, it’s easy to overlook this crucial aspect of financial planning. However, ensuring your coverage meets your family's evolving needs is vital. - 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
The horizon of the insurance industry has undergone a transformative shift with the advent of digital technology. With a few clicks, consumers can navigate the once-complex world of insurance policies from the comfort of their home. The digital landscape for insurance services offers unprecedented access to information, comparisons, and instant communication, fostering a more empowered insurance client. - read more
Start Here !
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!
Knowledgebase
No-Fault Insurance: A type of car insurance where your insurer pays for your damages regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
