Premium Affordability Tops Concerns for Australian Insurers in 2026

According to Gallagher Bassett's 2026 global claims study, 22% of Australian insurance leaders identified premium affordability and insurability as their top business challenge. This concern has risen from sixth place in 2025 to the leading position in 2026, highlighting the growing financial strain on both insurers and policyholders.

Several factors contribute to this trend:

• Rising Claims Costs: Increased frequency and severity of claims, particularly those related to natural disasters, have driven up the cost of payouts.
• Climate-Related Losses: The escalating impact of climate change has led to more frequent and severe weather events, resulting in higher claims and increased reinsurance costs.
• Regulatory Pressures: Compliance with evolving regulations adds to operational expenses, influencing premium pricing strategies.

In response to these challenges, insurers are exploring various strategies to manage costs and maintain affordability for policyholders. These include leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, investing in talent development to address workforce shortages, and strengthening governance frameworks to ensure sustainable practices.

For tradespeople and small business owners, understanding these industry dynamics is crucial. Rising premiums can impact the affordability of essential insurance coverage, making it imperative to regularly review policies and seek professional advice to ensure adequate protection against potential risks.