Insurance Finder Australia Weekly Insurance News Wrap
Each week, Insurance Finder Australia brings a clear, concise wrap of the biggest insurance stories across Australia. We cover policy and regulation updates, broker industry movements, claims trends, and practical consumer insights. Expect plain-English summaries, context on what changes mean, and tips to navigate coverage choices with confidence. It’s a trustworthy, industry-focused news brief designed for individuals and small business owners who want to stay informed without the noise.
This Week:
Weekly wrap for 5 August 2026: AFCA reports a record year of complaints, with general insurance disputes rising and car cover a major driver. NSW groups push parties to commit to scrapping the Emergency Services Levy before the March election, with hearings in September and a report due in November. Steadfasts potential buyout advances but isnt guaranteed, with exclusivity to 19 August. A consumer investigation warns that extended dealer warranties may delay or deny claims; check cover with a licensed broker. Listeners are invited to visit insurance-finder.com.au to get matched with a trusted broker.
EPISODE 2570 | Insurance Finder Australia Weekly Insurance News Wrap | Wed, 5th Aug 2026
11 Aug 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Insurance Finder Australia Weekly Insurance News Wrap, Im Paige Estritori, and its Wednesday, 5 August 2026.
First today, complaints to AFCA, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, hit a record in the year to June, with about 120,000 cases and general insurance up around five per cent, led by car cover. The top pain points were delays, service issues and claim rejections. Expect tougher scrutiny and longer timelines. A licensed broker can help set the right cover, explain exclusions up‑front, and support you if something goes wrong.
Next up, in New South Wales, a broad coalition is urging all parties to commit before the 13 March state election to scrapping the Emergency Services Levy, or ESL, which can add up to roughly a third to some premiums. Hearings are slated for 8–9 September with a report due in November, so costs remain uncertain for now. If youre in NSW, a broker can compare policies and help you avoid gaps while reform plays out.
Meanwhile, Steadfast says the consortium aiming to buy the group remains committed as due diligence nears completion, with an exclusivity period to 19 August and no guarantee a deal proceeds. For customers, ownership changes can shift network scale and product access, but a brokers duty to act for you doesnt change. If you prefer clear, independent guidance, well match you with licensed brokers across Australia.
And finally, a fresh consumer investigation highlights extended car warranty products refusing or delaying claims, with some matters only resolved after AFCA rulings. Remember, extended warranties sold at the dealership arent the same as insurance and may not offer the protections you expect. Before you sign anything at point of sale, speak to a broker about proper motor or equipment cover and the fine print on exclusions.
Thats the wrap. For fast, transparent comparisons and to get matched with a trusted insurance broker today, visit insurance-finder.com.au.
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.
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Knowledgebase
Exclusion: Specific conditions or circumstances for which the insurance policy does not provide coverage.
