Year: Month:
News image: A new life insurance discount puts long-term value in focus A new life insurance discount puts long-term value in focus
Tue, 14 Jul: Partners Life has introduced a new Life Advantage discount, giving eligible customers a permanent reduction on selected life and trauma-related covers. The offer is aimed at non-smokers aged 16 and over who meet a specified body mass index range and complete full medical underwriting when applying for new or increased cover. - read more
News image: Why insurer technology resilience matters when you need to claim Why insurer technology resilience matters when you need to claim
Tue, 14 Jul: A new regulatory focus on insurer operational resilience is a timely reminder that an income insurance policy is only as reassuring as the systems behind it. The Financial Markets Authority review, reported by Insurance Business in July 2026, found that many New Zealand insurers are still relying on ageing technology for core operations, while also managing significant outsourcing and cyber-security pressures. - read more
News image: Why Delayed Life Milestones Are Changing Income Protection Decisions Why Delayed Life Milestones Are Changing Income Protection Decisions
Tue, 14 Jul: New Zealand’s life and health insurance market is facing a quiet but important shift: younger adults are not necessarily rejecting protection, but many are postponing the life events that usually trigger it. Recent industry reporting, drawing on Deloitte and Financial Services Council research, shows Gen Z and millennial New Zealanders are delaying major decisions such as buying a home, starting a family, changing careers or launching a business because of financial pressure. - read more
News image: Small Businesses Are Still Paying More for Finance Small Businesses Are Still Paying More for Finance
Tue, 14 Jul: The latest Reserve Bank of Australia lending rate data gives small business owners a timely reminder: the cost of finance is still highly dependent on borrower profile, loan size, security and lender appetite. For May 2026, the average rate on new small business loans sat at 7.26% per annum, compared with 6.12% for medium businesses and 5.49% for large businesses. - read more
News image: Why Delayed Life Milestones Could Widen New Zealand’s Income Protection Gap Why Delayed Life Milestones Could Widen New Zealand’s Income Protection Gap
Sat, 11 Jul: New Zealand’s younger workers are reshaping the traditional path into insurance. Fresh industry reporting, drawing on Deloitte’s 2026 Gen Z and Millennial Survey and Financial Services Council research, points to a clear shift: many Gen Z and millennial New Zealanders are delaying major life decisions because of financial pressure. Home ownership, starting a family and career changes have long been moments when people reassess life, mortgage and income protection cover. - read more
News image: Why the FMA’s conduct focus matters for life insurance buyers Why the FMA’s conduct focus matters for life insurance buyers
Sat, 11 Jul: New Zealand’s financial advice sector is heading into a more targeted year of scrutiny after the Financial Markets Authority’s latest conduct priorities highlighted fraud, adviser commissions and complaints handling as areas of concern for 2026/27. For households arranging life, trauma, income protection or health-related cover, the message is practical: the quality of advice, disclosure and record keeping matters just as much as the premium on the page. - read more
News image: What Victoria’s New Building Defect Powers Mean for Strata Communities What Victoria’s New Building Defect Powers Mean for Strata Communities
Sat, 11 Jul: Victoria has moved another step in its building reform program, with the Building and Plumbing Commission now operating with stronger consumer protection powers and a developer bond scheme scheduled for apartment buildings from 1 July 2027. For strata communities, the announcement is not simply a construction law update. It is a reminder that building quality, defect management and insurance planning are becoming increasingly connected. - read more
News image: ASIC’s Big Four Audit Review Puts Adviser Trust in Focus ASIC’s Big Four Audit Review Puts Adviser Trust in Focus
Sat, 11 Jul: Australia’s corporate regulator has widened scrutiny of the nation’s largest audit and consulting firms, launching a broader review of audit conduct complaints across KPMG, Deloitte, EY and PwC. The move follows serious allegations involving KPMG and the alleged misuse of confidential client information in the pursuit of audit work. - read more
News image: Why Policy Details Matter Before a Home Service Claim Why Policy Details Matter Before a Home Service Claim
Sat, 11 Jul: A recent Australian Financial Complaints Authority decision has delivered a timely reminder for small operators: insurance protection depends on the details being right before something goes wrong. The dispute involved a food delivery business that suffered theft and damage at a site that was not listed on its insurance schedule. - read more
News image: Why Broker Fee Transparency Is Back in Focus for Freelancers Why Broker Fee Transparency Is Back in Focus for Freelancers
Sat, 11 Jul: Australia’s insurance broking sector is again facing scrutiny over how clearly small business clients are told about broker remuneration. The latest debate follows the release of a draft update to the Insurance Brokers Code of Practice, after earlier recommendations had supported broader disclosure of fees and commissions to individual and small business clients across more insurance products. - read more
News image: Longer Lives, Longer Illness: What It Means for Life Cover Longer Lives, Longer Illness: What It Means for Life Cover
Sat, 11 Jul: Australians are living longer, but new industry research suggests many are also spending more years managing chronic illness. For households thinking about life insurance, that distinction matters. Longevity is positive, but conditions that affect mobility, mental wellbeing, neurological function or the ability to work can place pressure on family finances well before retirement. - read more
News image: Rising Rents Give Landlords a Fresh Reason to Review Risk Rising Rents Give Landlords a Fresh Reason to Review Risk
Sat, 11 Jul: Domain’s June Quarter 2026 Rent Report has added a new layer to the debate facing Australian landlords: rental growth is accelerating again, but not evenly across the country. For property investors, the headline is not simply that rents are rising. It is that local market conditions, tenant affordability and policy uncertainty are now pulling rental markets in different directions. - read more
News image: Westpac’s August Rate Hike Warning Puts Refinancers on Notice Westpac’s August Rate Hike Warning Puts Refinancers on Notice
Sat, 11 Jul: Westpac has sharpened its warning that the Reserve Bank of Australia could lift the cash rate again at its August meeting, adding another layer of uncertainty for mortgage holders already managing higher repayments. The bank remains the only major lender group expecting an August increase, while CommBank, NAB and ANZ currently see the present hiking cycle as having run its course. - read more
News image: Why Xero’s Ultra Launch Matters for Growing Business Borrowers Why Xero’s Ultra Launch Matters for Growing Business Borrowers
Fri, 10 Jul: Xero’s launch of Ultra for Australian businesses is more than a software update. It points to a bigger shift in the way growing small and medium-sized enterprises are expected to manage their finances, report performance and prepare for future funding needs. - read more
News image: Record June Car Sales Signal a New Finance Landscape Record June Car Sales Signal a New Finance Landscape
Fri, 10 Jul: Australia’s new-car market has delivered another major signal to borrowers: the vehicle choices shaping car finance are changing quickly. In June 2026, combined new-vehicle deliveries reached 140,058, making it the strongest month recorded for the local market. The headline number matters, but the detail matters even more for buyers planning personal or business car loans. - read more
News image: Credit Card Debt Climbs Again as Australians Face a Bigger Interest Burden Credit Card Debt Climbs Again as Australians Face a Bigger Interest Burden
Fri, 10 Jul: Australian credit card debt is again moving in the wrong direction, with Canstar’s latest analysis of Reserve Bank of Australia figures showing personal credit card debt accruing interest reached $19.4 billion in May 2026. The increase was $61 million for the month, and while that may look modest beside the national total, it signals a deeper issue for households already stretched by rent, mortgage repayments, groceries, utilities and other everyday costs. - read more
News image: What SowSure Could Mean for Crop Risk Planning What SowSure Could Mean for Crop Risk Planning
Fri, 10 Jul: On 3 July 2026, Grain Central reported that RAGT Australia’s SowSure crop establishment protection initiative had received $982,049 through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund. For grain growers, the news is notable because it places insurance-style thinking closer to the sowing decision, rather than waiting until later-season losses become obvious. - read more
News image: What the proposed trust tax overhaul means for business owners What the proposed trust tax overhaul means for business owners
Fri, 10 Jul: Australia’s proposed trust tax overhaul has moved from budget-night headline to practical planning issue, after Treasury released consultation material setting out how the changes could work. The reform centres on a proposed 30% baseline tax on discretionary trust distributions, with a start date of 1 July 2028 if the measure becomes law. - read more
News image: What Misleading Health Ads Mean for Allied Health Practice Risk What Misleading Health Ads Mean for Allied Health Practice Risk
Fri, 10 Jul: ABC News Verify’s 8 July 2026 report on oral care brand Hismile is a timely reminder that healthcare marketing risk is no longer limited to clinic websites and printed brochures. The report examined social media advertisements that appeared to present sales or practice staff as health professionals, included imagery showing signs of AI manipulation, and used dramatic product visuals that dentists said needed far more clinical context. - read more
News image: Why QBE’s New Risk Assessments Matter for Fitness Businesses Why QBE’s New Risk Assessments Matter for Fitness Businesses
Fri, 10 Jul: QBE’s release of online business self-assessment tools on 9 July 2026 is a useful signal for fitness professionals: insurers are increasingly focused on helping small businesses identify risk before it becomes a claim. The tools, developed by QBE’s Risk Solutions team, are designed to guide Australian businesses through operational questions and provide tailored reports with risk-reduction suggestions and supporting resources. - read more
News image: QBE’s Self-Assessment Tools Signal a Shift Towards Prevention QBE’s Self-Assessment Tools Signal a Shift Towards Prevention
Fri, 10 Jul: QBE has broadened its risk-prevention offering for Australian businesses with new online self-assessment tools covering property, liability, motor fleet and ESG exposures. Announced on 9 July 2026, the move reflects a wider shift in commercial insurance: insurers are increasingly trying to help customers identify and reduce risks before they become claims, rather than simply pricing those risks at renewal. - read more
News image: How Early Insurance Planning Cut Costs on a Major Tasmanian Build How Early Insurance Planning Cut Costs on a Major Tasmanian Build
Fri, 10 Jul: TasNetworks’ North West Transmission Developments project has delivered a useful reminder for Australian construction businesses: insurance outcomes are often shaped long before a policy is formally placed. The Tasmanian transmission and distribution operator reported that insurance costs for the project came in more than 20 per cent below budget after a three-year engagement with Lockton as risk and insurance adviser. - read more
News image: NIBA Code Draft Puts Broker Fee Transparency Back in Focus NIBA Code Draft Puts Broker Fee Transparency Back in Focus
Fri, 10 Jul: Australia’s broker transparency debate has resurfaced after the National Insurance Brokers Association released the final draft of its revised Insurance Brokers Code of Practice for consultation. The issue centres on whether small business clients should automatically receive clearer disclosure about how their broker is paid, even when the policy they are buying is not treated as a retail insurance product under the Corporations Act. - read more
News image: What Rebounding Wake Boat Searches Mean for Buyers What Rebounding Wake Boat Searches Mean for Buyers
Fri, 10 Jul: Fresh Q1 2026 marine search data suggests Australian buyers are still highly engaged with boating, even as household budgets remain under pressure. Retain Media’s latest Marine Market Brand Consideration Report tracked 94 marine brands, around 31,000 keywords and more than 1.47 million Australian searches, giving dealers, lenders and would-be buyers a useful read on where attention is moving. - read more
News image: What June’s Truck Sales Slide Means for Buyers What June’s Truck Sales Slide Means for Buyers
Fri, 10 Jul: Australia’s new truck and heavy van market has reached the halfway mark of 2026 with another clear signal that operators are buying more cautiously. June registrations totalled 4,172 units, down 14.6 per cent from 4,888 in June 2025. Across the first six months, 19,526 trucks and heavy vans were sold, compared with 22,582 over the same period last year, putting the market around 13 per cent behind. - read more
News image: Why SMEs Should Slow Down Before Lodging Tax Returns Why SMEs Should Slow Down Before Lodging Tax Returns
Fri, 10 Jul: CPA Australia’s July 2026 warning to SMEs is a timely reminder that tax time is not just an administrative deadline. It is also a period when business owners are more exposed to fraud, rushed decisions and avoidable errors that can flow through to cash flow, compliance and future borrowing capacity. - read more
News image: What July’s Vehicle Finance Rates Mean for Caravan Buyers What July’s Vehicle Finance Rates Mean for Caravan Buyers
Fri, 10 Jul: Fresh July 2026 vehicle finance data is a timely reminder for caravan buyers: rates can look attractive at the top of the market, but the real cost of borrowing depends on far more than the advertised percentage. Canstar’s latest car loan comparison update shows some secured vehicle loans starting in the high-five per cent range for strong-credit borrowers, with comparison rates varying by lender, fees and loan structure. - read more
News image: What Personal Loan Reward Offers Mean for Surgery Finance What Personal Loan Reward Offers Mean for Surgery Finance
Fri, 10 Jul: A new July personal loan promotion from Finder and Latitude is a timely reminder for Australians considering elective cosmetic procedures: a reward can be appealing, but it should never be the main reason to choose a loan. The offer, which began on 6 July 2026 and is scheduled to run until 31 August 2026, provides a digital gift card to eligible borrowers who apply for and settle a qualifying Latitude personal loan through Finder’s comparison pathway. - read more
News image: What On-Farm Electrification Means for Machinery Finance What On-Farm Electrification Means for Machinery Finance
Fri, 10 Jul: A new report highlighted by Grain Central has put on-farm electrification back in the spotlight, arguing that Australian farmers should prioritise electric machinery, vehicles and supporting energy infrastructure over a broad shift to biofuels. For producers already weighing up machinery replacement cycles, the message is not simply environmental. It is also a capital planning issue. - read more
News image: Australians Lean Further Into Personal Credit Australians Lean Further Into Personal Credit
Thu, 09 Jul: Australia’s appetite for personal credit has shown another lift, with the Reserve Bank of Australia’s latest financial aggregates pointing to renewed momentum in May 2026. The data, released on 30 June, shows personal credit rose by 0.6 per cent over the month, up from 0.2 per cent in April. Over the year to May, personal credit was 4.4 per cent higher, compared with 2.9 per cent annual growth at the same point last year. - read more
News image: Why Today's Mortgage Pain Is Not Just a Rate Story Why Today's Mortgage Pain Is Not Just a Rate Story
Thu, 09 Jul: Australian borrowers have fresh evidence that the current mortgage squeeze is about more than headline interest rates. New KPMG analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics data, highlighted in the finance media this week, shows households are carrying one of the heaviest interest burdens recorded over the past four decades. - read more
News image: What the Latest Rate Outlook Means for Caravan Buyers What the Latest Rate Outlook Means for Caravan Buyers
Thu, 09 Jul: Australia’s interest-rate outlook has become more uncertain, and that matters for anyone planning to buy, upgrade or refinance a caravan in the second half of 2026. Following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s 16 June decision to keep the cash rate at 4.35%, fresh July forecasts suggest borrowers should not assume relief is just around the corner. - read more
News image: What July’s Lowest Car Loan Rates Mean for Buyers What July’s Lowest Car Loan Rates Mean for Buyers
Thu, 09 Jul: Australian car buyers have a fresh reminder this week that the lowest advertised rate is not always the same as the cheapest loan. Canstar’s latest July 2026 car loan comparison update shows secured car loan offers starting from 5.67% for a $50,000 loan over five years, with MoneyPlace and Stratton Finance both appearing at that headline rate in the snapshot. However, their comparison rates differ, underlining why the total loan cost needs closer attention. - read more
News image: Latest Boat Loan Comparisons Put Repayment Planning in Focus Latest Boat Loan Comparisons Put Repayment Planning in Focus
Thu, 09 Jul: Canstar’s latest boat loan comparison, updated on 8 July 2026, gives prospective Australian boat buyers a timely reminder that the cheapest-looking loan is not always the simplest or most affordable choice once fees, terms and eligibility settings are considered. - read more
News image: Compensation Scheme Shortfall Raises Fresh Trust Questions Compensation Scheme Shortfall Raises Fresh Trust Questions
Thu, 09 Jul: Australia’s Compensation Scheme of Last Resort has moved back into the spotlight after revised estimates showed a much larger funding need for the 2026-27 financial year.The scheme is designed to pay eligible consumers when a financial firm fails to meet an Australian Financial Complaints Authority determination, but the latest numbers point to a heavier burden than previously expected. - read more
News image: Sydney Boat Show 2026 Gives Buyers a Timely Finance Reminder Sydney Boat Show 2026 Gives Buyers a Timely Finance Reminder
Wed, 08 Jul: Sydney’s biggest boating showcase is preparing to return to Sydney Showground at Sydney Olympic Park from 30 July to 2 August 2026, with the Boating Industry Association confirming a broad line-up of more than 120 local and international exhibitors. For prospective buyers, the timing is important: major shows can create excitement, but they can also compress purchase decisions into a busy few days. - read more
News image: Mortgage Rate Competition Heats Up for Australian Borrowers Mortgage Rate Competition Heats Up for Australian Borrowers
Wed, 08 Jul: Australian mortgage competition has taken a notable turn, with a growing group of lenders trimming selected home loan rates even after the Reserve Bank of Australia’s May cash rate increase. According to recent market reporting, 18 lenders have reduced at least some variable mortgage rates, while AMP Bank has made one of the sharper fixed-rate moves, cutting selected fixed rates by up to 0.50 percentage points. - read more
News image: July Trade-In Offer Gives Riders a Timely Finance Checkpoint July Trade-In Offer Gives Riders a Timely Finance Checkpoint
Wed, 08 Jul: TeamMoto has launched a July trade-up incentive for eligible Australian riders, offering an extra $500 when they trade in their current motorcycle and purchase an eligible new or pre-owned bike through the dealership network. The offer runs from 6 July to 31 July 2026 inclusive, unless extended, and applies only where the trade-in and purchase are completed as part of the same dealership transaction. - read more
News image: What the Life Code Review Could Mean for Mental Health Claims What the Life Code Review Could Mean for Mental Health Claims
Wed, 08 Jul: The latest review of the Life Insurance Code of Practice has put mental health cover at the centre of the national conversation about life insurance, disability insurance and income protection. Independent reviewer Peter Kell has completed his final report, outlining 85 recommendations aimed at improving customer protections, claims handling, communication, vulnerability support and the enforceability of the Code. - read more
News image: What APRA’s Reinsurance Changes Mean for Boat Owners What APRA’s Reinsurance Changes Mean for Boat Owners
Wed, 08 Jul: APRA’s latest update to the general insurance reinsurance framework may sound like a back-office regulatory change, but it has practical relevance for Australian boat owners watching premiums, excesses and renewal conditions. Published on 7 July 2026, the reforms are designed to give general insurers better access to alternative reinsurance arrangements while keeping safeguards in place for policyholders. - read more
News image: Could NSW Levy Reform Make Insurance More Affordable for Small Business? Could NSW Levy Reform Make Insurance More Affordable for Small Business?
Wed, 08 Jul: New analysis released by the Insurance Council of Australia has put renewed attention on a major cost pressure for NSW businesses: the emergency services levy, commonly known as the ESL. The levy is currently collected through insurance premiums, meaning businesses that choose to insure their assets can face a higher cost for doing so. - read more
News image: Could NSW Emergency Services Levy Reform Make Insurance Fairer? Could NSW Emergency Services Levy Reform Make Insurance Fairer?
Wed, 08 Jul: New modelling released on 7 July 2026 has added momentum to the debate over how New South Wales funds emergency services, with analysis suggesting that removing the Emergency Services Levy from insurance premiums could deliver meaningful savings for many households and businesses. The findings, commissioned by the Insurance Council of Australia and prepared by Lateral Economics, support a shift away from loading the cost onto insurance policies and towards a broader property-based funding model. - read more
News image: New Payment Checks Give Australians a Scam Safety Prompt New Payment Checks Give Australians a Scam Safety Prompt
Wed, 08 Jul: Australia’s banking sector is seeing early evidence that name-matching technology can change customer behaviour before money leaves an account.Australian Payments Plus says the Confirmation of Payee service has led to large numbers of transfers being abandoned, including half a million at one bank alone, after customers were prompted to re-check recipient details. - read more
News image: Falling Cyber Cover Uptake Sends a Warning to Beauty Operators Falling Cyber Cover Uptake Sends a Warning to Beauty Operators
Wed, 08 Jul: A new cybercrime update has put a timely spotlight on a risk that many beauty businesses still treat as secondary to slips, burns, allergic reactions or damaged equipment. The Australian Institute of Criminology’s latest Cybercrime in Australia report, released on 30 June 2026 and covered by Insurance Business Australia, found that cyber insurance uptake has fallen even as online threats remain widespread. - read more
News image: What Rising Construction Liability Costs Mean for Tradies What Rising Construction Liability Costs Mean for Tradies
Wed, 08 Jul: New analysis of APRA’s National Claims and Policies Database has put a sharper focus on a familiar concern for many construction businesses: liability insurance costs are not easing evenly across the market. While some professional indemnity lines have softened, the public liability picture for construction remains more challenging. - read more
News image: Could Falling House Prices Help First Home Buyers? Could Falling House Prices Help First Home Buyers?
Wed, 08 Jul: Australia’s housing slowdown is no longer just a Sydney and Melbourne story. Fresh reporting on the property market points to falling national dwelling values in June, with Sydney and Melbourne leading the decline and growth cooling in several other capitals. For first home buyers, that sounds like welcome news after years of rising prices, stretched deposits and fierce competition for entry-level homes. - read more
News image: Why Risk Commission Reform Matters for Business Owners Why Risk Commission Reform Matters for Business Owners
Wed, 08 Jul: A fresh industry poll has put life insurance remuneration back in the spotlight, with a strong majority of advisers reportedly supporting a review of the Life Insurance Framework commission caps. The current hybrid model, commonly described as 60/20, limits upfront and ongoing commissions on life risk insurance and has shaped how personal and business protection advice is delivered since the reforms were phased in. - read more
News image: Life insurer profits have softened — why business owners should pay attention Life insurer profits have softened — why business owners should pay attention
Wed, 08 Jul: Australia’s life insurance sector entered the 2026 financial year with a clear reminder that market conditions can shift quickly. APRA’s latest quarterly figures for the three months to 31 March 2026 show life insurers remained profitable, but earnings were noticeably softer than the previous quarter and the same period a year earlier. - read more
News image: Reducing Life Insurance Cover? New AFCA Case Shows Why Warnings Matter Reducing Life Insurance Cover? New AFCA Case Shows Why Warnings Matter
Wed, 08 Jul: A recent Australian Financial Complaints Authority decision involving AIA Australia is a useful reminder that reducing life insurance or trauma cover is not always a simple cost-saving move. For families under pressure from rising household expenses, lowering a sum insured can feel practical in the moment. This case shows why the timing, policy wording and claims process should be checked carefully before any change is made. - read more
News image: Why Borrowers Should Revisit Loan Costs This Financial Year Why Borrowers Should Revisit Loan Costs This Financial Year
Tue, 07 Jul: New research highlighted by Money magazine has reopened an important debate for Australian borrowers: which generation has faced the toughest loan burden, and what does that mean for people applying for finance today? - read more
News image: What July’s Rate Pause Means for Motorbike Loan Shoppers What July’s Rate Pause Means for Motorbike Loan Shoppers
Tue, 07 Jul: Australian borrowers have entered July 2026 with a little more breathing space, after the Reserve Bank of Australia left the cash rate unchanged at 4.35 per cent at its 16 June meeting. Money.com.au’s latest July lending update indicates variable home loan rates have remained broadly steady, with some lenders still advertising rates below 6 per cent for eligible mortgage borrowers. - read more
News image: Car Finance Fees Under Scrutiny as ASIC Flags Borrower Risks Car Finance Fees Under Scrutiny as ASIC Flags Borrower Risks
Tue, 07 Jul: ASIC’s latest review of the motor vehicle finance sector is a timely reminder that the true cost of borrowing can sit well beyond the advertised interest rate. While the review focused on car loans, the lessons apply to many Australians considering small personal loans, short term finance or any borrowing arranged through a third party. - read more
News image: What Bushfire Resilience Ratings Mean for Farmers What Bushfire Resilience Ratings Mean for Farmers
Tue, 07 Jul: More Australian insurers are now recognising household bushfire resilience ratings, a development rural and regional property owners should watch closely as risk-based pricing becomes more visible across the insurance market. NAB and CommBank insurance brands have joined the program, alongside existing participants including NRMA Insurance and Suncorp, meaning a significant share of the home insurance market is now engaging with assessed bushfire mitigation. - read more
News image: Business Borrowing Stays Strong as May Credit Data Lands Business Borrowing Stays Strong as May Credit Data Lands
Tue, 07 Jul: The latest Reserve Bank of Australia financial aggregates show that borrowing demand has remained resilient, with business credit again leading the way. Released on 30 June 2026, the May figures show total credit rising by 0.7% over the month and 8.2% over the year. Within that, lending to non-financial businesses rose 1.0% in May and 9.9% across the year, outpacing both housing and personal credit. - read more
News image: Why Perth’s 2026 Boat Show Matters for Buyers Why Perth’s 2026 Boat Show Matters for Buyers
Tue, 07 Jul: The 2026 Perth Boat Show is shaping as a useful barometer for Western Australia’s recreational boating appetite, with organisers positioning the event as one of the state’s strongest marine showcases in recent years. Scheduled for Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September 2026 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, the show is expected to fill all six pavilions and bring together more than 90 exhibitors. - read more
News image: Small Business Tax Debt Crackdown Sharpens Cash Flow Focus Small Business Tax Debt Crackdown Sharpens Cash Flow Focus
Tue, 07 Jul: Australian small businesses may soon face a more disciplined tax debt collection environment, after the Australian National Audit Office found the ATO needs clearer targets for reducing collectable small business debt. The issue is substantial: small business collectable tax debt stood at $35.9 billion in 2024-25, representing about two-thirds of total collectable tax debt. - read more
News image: PSC Move Signals Stronger Competition in Transport Insurance Broking PSC Move Signals Stronger Competition in Transport Insurance Broking
Tue, 07 Jul: PSC Insurance Brokers’ investment in MA Insurance Brokers is a timely reminder that specialist transport insurance advice is becoming increasingly valuable in a tighter, more complex market. The deal, announced in late June 2026, sees MA begin operating as PSC Transport Insurance Brokers, while founders Barry Mathison and Mariann Illyes retain an equity stake and continue leading the business as managing principals. - read more
News image: QBE’s Trade Pack Change Puts Renewals in Focus for Tradies QBE’s Trade Pack Change Puts Renewals in Focus for Tradies
Tue, 07 Jul: QBE’s decision to stop offering its standalone office and trade pack products from July 2026 is a timely reminder for Australian tradies to treat every renewal as more than a simple rollover. The insurer is moving customers towards a standard business cover structure, with existing trade pack policyholders expected to be offered the replacement product at renewal from October 2026. - read more
News image: What the Latest Adviser Exam Results Mean for Australians What the Latest Adviser Exam Results Mean for Australians
Tue, 07 Jul: Australia’s financial advice sector has entered the new financial year with a mixed signal: new advisers are continuing to pass the professional exam at a steady rate, but the overall adviser pool remains under pressure. - read more
News image: Road User Charging Reform: What It Could Mean for Truck Operators Road User Charging Reform: What It Could Mean for Truck Operators
Mon, 06 Jul: Road user charging is moving from policy theory to a more serious industry conversation, with a new ITS Australia survey pointing to growing support for replacing fuel excise with a distance-based funding model. For transport operators, this is not just a tax discussion. It could change how fleets calculate running costs, compare vehicle types and plan margins on long-term freight contracts. - read more
News image: Stolen Tools Ruling Shows Why Policy Limits Matter Stolen Tools Ruling Shows Why Policy Limits Matter
Mon, 06 Jul: A recent Australian Financial Complaints Authority decision is a timely warning for trade businesses that rely on tools, trailers and mobile equipment every day. The dispute centred on a business that had tools and a trailer stolen from a worksite, then challenged the insurer’s payout after discovering the claim was limited by the portable items section of the policy. - read more
News image: Farizon F3E Arrives as a Practical Electric Work Truck Option Farizon F3E Arrives as a Practical Electric Work Truck Option
Mon, 06 Jul: Farizon has put a sharper price point under Australia’s growing electric commercial vehicle market, with its new F3E electric cab chassis listed from $48,990. For small businesses, delivery operators, tradies and service fleets, the launch adds another option between a van and a traditional light truck at a time when operating costs are under close scrutiny. - read more
News image: Adviser Levy Pressure Puts PI Reform Back in Focus Adviser Levy Pressure Puts PI Reform Back in Focus
Mon, 06 Jul: The Financial Advice Association Australia has renewed pressure on the Federal Government to limit Compensation Scheme of Last Resort costs for financial advisers, arguing the profession should not carry more than $20 million in total levy exposure while adviser numbers remain under strain. - read more
News image: What the CSLR Funding Blowout Means for Investors What the CSLR Funding Blowout Means for Investors
Mon, 06 Jul: Australia’s financial advice sector is again under scrutiny after the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort released a sharply higher funding estimate for the 2027 financial year. The scheme now expects a total levy requirement of $198.1 million, with $190.3 million attributed to personal financial advice claims. Because that advice sub-sector has a $20 million annual levy cap, the balance points to a substantial special levy debate across the broader financial services industry. - read more
News image: New Strata Broking Findings Raise the Bar for Trust New Strata Broking Findings Raise the Bar for Trust
Mon, 06 Jul: Fresh findings from the Insurance Brokers Code Compliance Committee have added another layer to Australia’s continuing strata insurance transparency debate. The committee’s review of strata broker-agent arrangements examined seven brokers collectively connected to one thousand and eighty-eight strata representatives, and resulted in nine formal breach determinations. Two brokers were also referred to ASIC for consideration of conflict management issues. - read more
News image: Why Micro-Rating Matters for Your Next Shop Insurance Renewal Why Micro-Rating Matters for Your Next Shop Insurance Renewal
Mon, 06 Jul: Australia’s commercial insurance market is entering a more nuanced phase. While headline pricing indicators suggest conditions are easing for many business customers, a recent Insurance Business Australia report highlights a shift away from the old idea of one broad insurance cycle. Instead, pricing is increasingly being assessed by product line, geography, occupation, claims history and the quality of each risk submission. - read more
News image: School Holiday Travel Highlights a New Test for Insurance Cover School Holiday Travel Highlights a New Test for Insurance Cover
Sun, 05 Jul: Australia’s winter school holiday rush has put travel insurance back in the spotlight, with families heading to Bali, Fiji and Thailand, skiers travelling to New Zealand and domestic holidaymakers chasing either snow or sunshine closer to home. But this year’s peak period is unfolding against a more unsettled backdrop: geopolitical tension, airspace closures, airline disruption and a growing expectation that insurers should do more than reimburse costs after the event. - read more
News image: Strata Insurance Breaches Put Transparency Back in the Spotlight Strata Insurance Breaches Put Transparency Back in the Spotlight
Sun, 05 Jul: The latest scrutiny of strata insurance arrangements is a timely reminder that insurance governance is no longer a back-office issue for property professionals. On 30 June 2026, the Insurance Brokers Code Compliance Committee released findings from a review of broker-agent arrangements in strata insurance. The review examined seven brokers with 1,088 strata representatives and identified weaknesses across representative agreements, remuneration disclosure, conflict management and oversight of conduct. - read more
News image: Why Insurance Pricing Is Becoming More Client-Specific Why Insurance Pricing Is Becoming More Client-Specific
Sun, 05 Jul: Australia’s commercial insurance market may be softening on the surface, but the latest industry commentary suggests small businesses should be cautious about assuming every policy will automatically become cheaper. The emerging message is that the old idea of a single hard or soft insurance market is giving way to a more targeted pricing environment, where insurers assess each line of cover, occupation, location and claims history in much greater detail. - read more
News image: What Haven’s New Liability Offering Means for Restaurants What Haven’s New Liability Offering Means for Restaurants
Sun, 05 Jul: Australian hospitality operators have another liability option to watch, after Haven Underwriting added broadform liability cover to its product line-up, backed by capacity from Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance. The product is aimed at several customer groups, including cafés, restaurants, wine bars and associated hospitality risks, with a stated limit of up to $20 million per policy. - read more
News image: Compensation Scheme Funding Gap Puts Advice Risks in Focus Compensation Scheme Funding Gap Puts Advice Risks in Focus
Sun, 05 Jul: Australia’s financial safety net for victims of misconduct is under fresh pressure, with the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort facing a major funding gap linked to failed investment and advice arrangements. The latest figures point to a revised FY2027 estimate of $198.1 million, with personal financial advice claims accounting for $190.3 million of that total. - read more
News image: Cyclone Pool Delivers Some Relief for High-Risk Strata Schemes Cyclone Pool Delivers Some Relief for High-Risk Strata Schemes
Sun, 05 Jul: The ACCC’s fifth and final insurance monitoring report has given strata committees in cyclone-exposed regions a clearer view of what the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is—and is not—achieving. Released on 25 June 2026, the report found that the pool has helped reduce or moderate premiums for policyholders in higher cyclone-risk areas, including residential strata schemes. - read more
News image: Tesla and BYD Power a Record Month for Australian EV Buyers Tesla and BYD Power a Record Month for Australian EV Buyers
Sun, 05 Jul: Australia’s electric vehicle market has moved into a new phase, with June 2026 delivering a standout result led by Tesla and BYD. Industry reporting shows battery electric vehicles reached about 23.4 per cent of new-vehicle sales for the month, while the two biggest EV brands delivered more than 19,000 electric cars between them. For households comparing a petrol replacement with an electric upgrade, this is more than a sales milestone. - read more
News image: Leapmotor B05 Brings Sub-$40K EV Choice to Australian Buyers Leapmotor B05 Brings Sub-$40K EV Choice to Australian Buyers
Sun, 05 Jul: Australia’s affordable electric vehicle market is about to gain another serious contender, with Leapmotor confirming local pricing and specifications for the new B05 electric hatchback ahead of its late August showroom arrival. For buyers who have been waiting for more choice below the $40,000 mark, the headline is simple: the B05 will start from $35,990 drive-away. - read more
News image: New Leapmotor B05 Gives EV Buyers Another Budget Option New Leapmotor B05 Gives EV Buyers Another Budget Option
Sun, 05 Jul: Australia’s lower-priced electric vehicle segment is about to get another contender, with Leapmotor confirming local pricing and specifications for the B05 electric hatch ahead of its late August arrival. For buyers weighing up an EV loan, the headline is straightforward: the B05 will start from $35,990 driveaway, with a longer-range variant priced from $38,990 driveaway. - read more
News image: Renewal Notice Gaps Put Insurance Costs Back in Focus for Tradies Renewal Notice Gaps Put Insurance Costs Back in Focus for Tradies
Sun, 05 Jul: Australian tradies know the pressure of keeping cover in place while juggling wages, materials, fuel, tax, vehicle costs and unpredictable cash flow. A new review by the General Insurance Code Governance Committee is a timely reminder that the way an insurance renewal is presented can make a real difference to what a small business owner understands, compares and ultimately pays. - read more
News image: Mercer Super Fine Shows Why Life Cover Needs Regular Checks Mercer Super Fine Shows Why Life Cover Needs Regular Checks
Sun, 05 Jul: A new Federal Court penalty against Mercer Super has put another spotlight on the systems that sit behind insurance held through superannuation. Mercer Super has been ordered to pay $10.3 million after failures to report internal investigations into significant member service issues to ASIC, including one matter involving insurance premiums that continued to be charged after members had died. - read more
News image: H5 Bird Flu Detections: What Farm Operators Should Review Now H5 Bird Flu Detections: What Farm Operators Should Review Now
Sun, 05 Jul: Australia’s H5 bird flu situation has moved quickly, with authorities responding to new detections in migratory seabirds, including a confirmed case in New South Wales and further concerns in Western Australia. Importantly for producers, officials have continued to stress that there is currently no evidence of infection in poultry or the wider agricultural production system, and the public health risk remains low. - read more
News image: BHSI Launch Highlights SME Management Risk Needs BHSI Launch Highlights SME Management Risk Needs
Sun, 05 Jul: Australian small and medium-sized businesses have another management liability option to consider, after BizCover expanded its partnership with Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company on 1 July 2026. The new product has been added to BizCover’s online platform and is aimed at organisations with annual turnover up to $25 million and up to 200 staff, with cover limits available up to $5 million. - read more
News image: July Refinance Cashback Offers Put Switching Back in Focus July Refinance Cashback Offers Put Switching Back in Focus
Sun, 05 Jul: Australian homeowners weighing up whether to switch lenders have a fresh reason to revisit the market, with July 2026 refinance offers showing a mix of cashbacks, fee incentives and rewards points aimed at borrowers willing to move their mortgage. The renewed competition is timely, particularly after months of pressure from higher repayments and a cash rate that remains well above the levels many borrowers became used to during the low-rate period. - read more
News image: What ASIC’s Car Finance Findings Mean for Jetski Buyers What ASIC’s Car Finance Findings Mean for Jetski Buyers
Sat, 04 Jul: ASIC’s 24 June 2026 review of car finance has put a sharp spotlight on how asset loans are sold, priced and managed in Australia. While the report focused on motor vehicles rather than personal watercraft, the lessons are highly relevant for anyone considering jetski loans, especially where finance is arranged through a dealer, broker or other third-party distributor. - read more
News image: Why SME Structure Decisions Can Shape Future Finance Options Why SME Structure Decisions Can Shape Future Finance Options
Sat, 04 Jul: Australian SMEs are being urged to treat tax structure as a strategic finance decision, not simply an administrative task at launch. A recent Dynamic Business expert panel highlighted how early choices between operating as a sole trader, company, trust or partnership can become difficult and costly to unwind once revenue, assets, staff and outside investment enter the picture. - read more
News image: Strata Broker Review Raises Fresh Questions for Owners Corporations Strata Broker Review Raises Fresh Questions for Owners Corporations
Sat, 04 Jul: A fresh compliance review into strata insurance broking has intensified the sector’s focus on transparency, governance and the way owners corporations are supported through major insurance decisions. The National Insurance Brokers Association has responded by saying it will continue working with members and the code compliance committee after the review identified shortcomings in strata-related arrangements. - read more
News image: Financial Misconduct Scheme Faces $170m Funding Gap Financial Misconduct Scheme Faces $170m Funding Gap
Sat, 04 Jul: Australia’s Compensation Scheme of Last Resort has moved back into the spotlight after new figures pointed to a funding shortfall of about $170 million for financial advice claims in the 2026-27 year. The revised estimate lifts total scheme costs to $198.1 million, with $190.3 million attributed to the personal financial advice subsector. - read more
News image: Broker Conflict Findings: A Reminder for Home Service Operators Broker Conflict Findings: A Reminder for Home Service Operators
Sat, 04 Jul: Fresh scrutiny of broker conduct in the strata insurance market is a useful reminder for home service businesses that insurance advice should be transparent, documented and clearly aligned with the client’s interests. The National Insurance Brokers Association has responded to findings from the Insurance Brokers Code Compliance Committee after a review identified weaknesses in representative arrangements, remuneration disclosure, conflict management and oversight. - read more
News image: New Insurance Code Draft Puts Claims Handling in Focus New Insurance Code Draft Puts Claims Handling in Focus
Sat, 04 Jul: The Insurance Council of Australia has opened public consultation on a redrafted General Insurance Code of Practice, with feedback invited until 21 July 2026. The proposal is not yet final, but it is an important development for anyone who relies on insurance to keep a small business operating, including personal trainers, fitness instructors and studio owners. - read more
News image: Canstar’s Latest Update Sharpens the Cost Question for Landlords Canstar’s Latest Update Sharpens the Cost Question for Landlords
Sat, 04 Jul: Canstar’s 3 July 2026 landlord insurance comparison update gives Australian property investors a timely reminder that price is only one part of the cover decision. Its latest published figures, based on March 2026 research, show the national average annual premium for landlord building and contents cover on houses at $2,640, compared with $432 for units. The gap underlines how strongly property type, location, rebuild exposure and insured assets can influence what landlords pay. - read more
News image: New-Customer Rate Cuts Put Refinancers Back in Play New-Customer Rate Cuts Put Refinancers Back in Play
Sat, 04 Jul: The Reserve Bank of Australia’s June pause has not stopped lenders from competing for new mortgage business. While the cash rate remains at 4.35 per cent after three increases earlier in 2026, a fresh wave of lender discounting suggests the refinancing market is becoming more active again, particularly for borrowers willing to move rather than wait for broad rate relief. - read more
News image: Zurich-Honey Deal Brings New Momentum to Landlord Insurance Zurich-Honey Deal Brings New Momentum to Landlord Insurance
Sat, 04 Jul: Zurich Australia is set to deepen its position in the local personal insurance market through an expanded partnership with Honey Insurance, with landlord policies included in the new arrangement. From October 2026, Zurich will underwrite and manage claims for home, landlord and motor policies distributed under the Honey brand, as well as through Bank of Queensland and other partner channels. - read more
News image: Right to Repair Push Could Change Farm Machinery Decisions Right to Repair Push Could Change Farm Machinery Decisions
Fri, 03 Jul: Australia’s proposed expansion of right to repair rules to agricultural machinery has become a timely issue for farmers who rely on tractors, headers, seeders, sprayers and other high-value equipment to keep seasonal work on track. The Federal Government’s consultation on extending the existing repair information framework to farm machinery closes on 3 July 2026, bringing the sector closer to a potential shift in how service and repair access is managed. - read more
News image: Why personal loan comparison matters for July borrowers Why personal loan comparison matters for July borrowers
Fri, 03 Jul: Australia’s personal loan market has entered July with a clear message for households and small business owners: the advertised rate is only the starting point. Recent rate tables show a wide gap between the most competitive personal loan offers and the upper end of the market, particularly for unsecured borrowing. That spread matters because two applicants seeking the same loan amount can face very different total repayment outcomes depending on credit profile, product type, fees and loan term. - read more
News image: ASIC Puts Car Finance Providers on Notice Over Loan Costs ASIC Puts Car Finance Providers on Notice Over Loan Costs
Fri, 03 Jul: ASIC’s latest review of Australia’s motor finance sector is a timely reminder that the cheapest-looking car loan is not always the fairest or most suitable option. Released on 24 June 2026, the regulator’s report examined more than 350,000 loans across eight car finance providers and found concerns around third-party distribution, fees, hardship support and borrower outcomes. - read more
News image: Why Tax Refunds Are Now a Financial Lifeline Why Tax Refunds Are Now a Financial Lifeline
Fri, 03 Jul: A new Finder survey published on 29 June 2026 has put a spotlight on how stretched many Australian households have become. Finder reported that 38% of Australians, or more than 8.1 million people, expect a tax refund this year. Of those expecting money back, 18% said the refund is critical to their financial wellbeing, equating to about 1.5 million taxpayers. - read more
News image: What a Major Quad Bike Fine Means for Farm Risk What a Major Quad Bike Fine Means for Farm Risk
Fri, 03 Jul: A recent quad bike fatality case in New South Wales has put farm safety, workplace liability and risk management back under close attention. ABC Rural reported on 2 July 2026 that Wumbulgal Agriculture Pty Ltd was fined $555,000 after an 82-year-old worker died in a quad bike accident at Yenda in the Riverina in February 2023. The company was found to have breached work health and safety obligations. - read more
News image: New SMS Rules Give Australians a Stronger Scam Warning Signal New SMS Rules Give Australians a Stronger Scam Warning Signal
Fri, 03 Jul: Australia’s new SMS Sender ID Register is now in force, marking a practical shift in how consumers can assess branded text messages from banks, insurers, government agencies and other organisations. From 1 July 2026, registered sender names should continue to appear as expected, while unregistered branded sender IDs are labelled as Unverified and grouped into a single thread by telcos. - read more
News image: What DVA’s 2027 Allied Health Changes Mean for Provider Risk What DVA’s 2027 Allied Health Changes Mean for Provider Risk
Fri, 03 Jul: The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has confirmed a significant change to the way allied health care for eligible veterans will be funded from 1 July 2027. The reform combines higher provider fees with the removal of the current treatment cycle and the introduction of a $5,000 annual allied health expenditure threshold for review of clinical effectiveness. - read more
News image: Draft Insurance Code Puts Claims Standards Back in Focus Draft Insurance Code Puts Claims Standards Back in Focus
Fri, 03 Jul: The Insurance Council of Australia has opened public consultation on a redrafted General Insurance Code of Practice, with feedback invited from 24 June 2026 until 21 July 2026. For fitness professionals, this is more than an insurance-sector process. It is a timely reminder that the value of a policy is tested not only by the premium, but by what happens when a claim, complaint or vulnerable customer situation arises. - read more
News image: APRA’s Cyber Data Shift: What Consultants Should Watch APRA’s Cyber Data Shift: What Consultants Should Watch
Fri, 03 Jul: APRA’s latest move on insurance data may sound technical, but it has practical implications for Australian consultants reviewing their risk programmes. The regulator has confirmed it will separately publish cyber insurance and management liability data within the National Claims and Policies Database, rather than leaving those lines blended into broader liability categories. - read more
News image: Why Crane and Rigging Risks Are Testing Construction Insurance Programmes Why Crane and Rigging Risks Are Testing Construction Insurance Programmes
Fri, 03 Jul: A new crane and rigging insurance facility in Australia has put a spotlight on a practical problem that many high-risk contractors already understand: when one job is insured across several policies, a loss can become a dispute about which insurer should respond. - read more
News image: NSW Insurance Taxes Put Premium Affordability Back in Focus NSW Insurance Taxes Put Premium Affordability Back in Focus
Fri, 03 Jul: New South Wales insurance customers are again at the centre of a cost-of-cover debate, after the latest state budget papers showed insurance-related taxes and levies are expected to raise more than $3 billion a year across the forward estimates. - read more
News image: Electric Boating Is Becoming a Serious Buying Consideration Electric Boating Is Becoming a Serious Buying Consideration
Fri, 03 Jul: Electric boating is no longer sitting at the edge of the marine market as an experimental idea. The latest industry discussion points to a more mature phase, where propulsion, battery systems, onboard power management, charging access, vessel design and regulation all need to work together before electric boats can scale confidently. - read more
News image: Record Commercial Card Debt Sends Warning to Australian SMEs Record Commercial Card Debt Sends Warning to Australian SMEs
Fri, 03 Jul: Australian small businesses are entering the new financial year with another cash flow warning light flashing. Recent analysis reported by Inside Small Business shows commercial credit card debt has climbed to a record $2.26 billion, with almost a quarter of that balance sitting in high-interest debt. Commercial card transactions have also risen sharply over the past two years, suggesting many businesses are leaning more heavily on short-term credit to manage everyday expenses. - read more
News image: New Caravan Loan Snapshot Puts Repayments and Fees in Focus New Caravan Loan Snapshot Puts Repayments and Fees in Focus
Fri, 03 Jul: Canstar’s caravan loan comparison, fact checked on 2 July 2026, is a timely reminder that the cheapest-looking offer is not always the lowest-cost path to getting on the road. For buyers weighing up a new van, used caravan, camper trailer or motorhome, the latest market snapshot shows a wide spread of personal loan options, with indicative rates and repayments varying according to credit profile, loan term, lender criteria and fees. - read more
News image: What July’s Personal Loan Rates Mean for Cosmetic Surgery Borrowers What July’s Personal Loan Rates Mean for Cosmetic Surgery Borrowers
Fri, 03 Jul: Australians considering elective cosmetic procedures have a fresh reminder that personal loan rates can vary dramatically depending on the lender, loan type and borrower profile. Canstar’s 1 July 2026 personal loan update shows some of the lowest unsecured personal loan rates on its database sitting from 5.76% p.a., while unsecured rates can also climb above 29% p.a. for some borrowers. - read more
News image: What ASIC’s Car Finance Review Means for Borrowers What ASIC’s Car Finance Review Means for Borrowers
Thu, 02 Jul: ASIC’s latest review of the car finance market is a timely reminder that the cheapest-looking loan is not always the cheapest loan. Released on 24 June 2026, the regulator’s Report 832 examined more than 350,000 car loans across eight finance providers and found concerns around loan costs, third-party distribution and how lenders monitor outcomes for customers. - read more
News image: Small Business Credit Stress Is Building Across Australia Small Business Credit Stress Is Building Across Australia
Thu, 02 Jul: Fresh business credit data points to a sharper divide opening in Australia’s lending market, with larger companies still expanding their funding lines while many smaller operators face tighter cash flow, rising tax pressure and more overdue debt. - read more
News image: What Recent Caravan Business Failures Mean for Buyers What Recent Caravan Business Failures Mean for Buyers
Thu, 02 Jul: Australia’s caravan sector has entered a sharper adjustment phase, with several Victorian caravan businesses falling into voluntary administration in late June 2026. The latest developments include Sunland RV, X Series RV and Global RV Corp, following the earlier appointment of administrators to Network RV, Network Engineering and Fair Dinkum Caravans. For buyers, the immediate message is not to panic, but to become more disciplined before paying deposits, signing contracts or arranging caravan finance. - read more
News image: Luxury Car Tax Thresholds Rise for 2026–27: What It Means for Your Next Car Loan Luxury Car Tax Thresholds Rise for 2026–27: What It Means for Your Next Car Loan
Thu, 02 Jul: Australian buyers shopping for a higher-priced new car have a fresh number to factor into their budget from 1 July 2026, with the Luxury Car Tax thresholds indexed for the 2026–27 financial year. - read more
News image: Why today’s mortgage burden may feel heavier than the 1989 rate peak Why today’s mortgage burden may feel heavier than the 1989 rate peak
Thu, 02 Jul: New analysis of Australian household debt suggests today’s mortgage pressure is not simply a matter of high interest rates. The bigger issue is the size of modern loans relative to income, which means even comparatively modest rate movements can place heavy strain on family budgets. - read more
News image: What PSC’s Transport Broker Investment Means for Truck Operators What PSC’s Transport Broker Investment Means for Truck Operators
Thu, 02 Jul: PSC Insurance Brokers’ investment in MA Insurance Brokers is a timely reminder that transport insurance in Australia is becoming more specialised, more relationship-driven and more closely tied to claims performance. The deal, announced on 25 June 2026, sees MA begin operating as PSC Transport Insurance Brokers, with founders Barry Mathison and Mariann Illyes remaining involved as managing principals. - read more
News image: Electrified Vehicles Are Changing the Way Australians Finance Cars Electrified Vehicles Are Changing the Way Australians Finance Cars
Thu, 02 Jul: Australia’s new-car market has reached another turning point, with the latest May sales data showing electrified vehicles moving from a specialist category into the mainstream. Battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and conventional hybrids together represented about 46% of new vehicle sales during the month, while battery electric models alone reached around one in five sales. For car buyers, this is no longer just an environmental story. It is becoming a finance story. - read more
News image: Fresh Boat Loan Data Highlights Need to Compare Carefully Fresh Boat Loan Data Highlights Need to Compare Carefully
Wed, 01 Jul: Fresh Australian boat loan comparison data updated on 30 June 2026 shows a clear message for anyone planning a purchase: the headline interest rate is only one part of the finance decision. With lenders offering different structures, fees, loan terms and eligibility settings, buyers who compare carefully may be better placed to avoid unnecessary costs over the life of their loan. - read more
News image: Right to Repair Push Could Change the Farm Machinery Cost Equation Right to Repair Push Could Change the Farm Machinery Cost Equation
Wed, 01 Jul: Australia’s proposed expansion of right to repair laws to agricultural machinery is shaping as a timely development for farmers managing high input costs, narrow seasonal windows and the growing complexity of modern equipment. The Federal Government opened consultation on 22 May 2026, with feedback due by 3 July 2026, on whether repair information access should be broadened for machinery used across farming operations. - read more
News image: Property Price Falls Give Buyers a Timely Reality Check Property Price Falls Give Buyers a Timely Reality Check
Wed, 01 Jul: Australia’s housing market has shifted into a more cautious phase, with the latest PropTrack Home Price Index showing national values declined for a third consecutive month in June. The fall was broad-based, with every capital city except Darwin recording softer prices, although national values remain close to recent record highs. - read more
News image: Cancer Claim Decision Shows Why Policy Wording Matters Cancer Claim Decision Shows Why Policy Wording Matters
Wed, 01 Jul: A new Australian Financial Complaints Authority decision has underlined a point that is easy to overlook when buying personal insurance: a serious diagnosis does not always mean a policy benefit will be payable. The ruling, reported on 29 June 2026, involved a claimant who sought benefits after being diagnosed with high-grade urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Although the illness was serious and required treatment, AFCA found the insurer was entitled to rely on the specific wording of the policy. - read more
News image: What Renewal Price Transparency Means for Boat Owners What Renewal Price Transparency Means for Boat Owners
Wed, 01 Jul: A new review by the General Insurance Code Governance Committee has put renewal pricing transparency back under the spotlight, with findings that matter well beyond home and motor policies. For Australian boat owners, the message is simple: when your policy renewal arrives, the payment frequency can be just as important as the headline premium. - read more
News image: What IAG’s Modular Shelter Move Means for SMEs What IAG’s Modular Shelter Move Means for SMEs
Wed, 01 Jul: IAG’s latest investment through Firemark Ventures is a useful signal for Australian business owners: disaster recovery is no longer just about paying claims after the event. It is increasingly about helping people and enterprises stay operational, connected and on-site while rebuilding happens around them. - read more
News image: Life Insurance Code Review Puts Mental Health and Claims Fairness in Focus Life Insurance Code Review Puts Mental Health and Claims Fairness in Focus
Wed, 01 Jul: Australia’s life insurance sector is facing another important reform moment after the independent review of the Life Insurance Code of Practice released its final report on 30 June 2026. The report, led by former senior regulator Peter Kell, makes 85 recommendations aimed at improving how life insurers communicate, design products, handle claims and support customers who may be vulnerable. - read more
News image: Money Mule Scams: Why Your Bank Account Is a Target Money Mule Scams: Why Your Bank Account Is a Target
Wed, 01 Jul: Australian banks and police are warning that criminal syndicates are increasingly recruiting ordinary people to move stolen money through legitimate bank accounts, creating a fresh risk for households, students, job seekers and small business operators who rely on digital financial services. - read more
News image: New Cyber Insurance Access Signals a Timely Reminder for Beauty Businesses New Cyber Insurance Access Signals a Timely Reminder for Beauty Businesses
Wed, 01 Jul: Delta Insurance Australia’s latest move onto Ebix Australia’s Sunrise Exchange is a technical insurance market update, but it carries a practical message for salon owners, beauty therapists and mobile beauticians: cyber and management liability risks are becoming everyday small business issues, not just concerns for large companies. - read more
News image: Stolen Tools Case Shows Why Policy Limits Matter for Tradies Stolen Tools Case Shows Why Policy Limits Matter for Tradies
Wed, 01 Jul: A recent Australian Financial Complaints Authority decision has delivered a practical reminder for tradies: the figure shown as a contents sum insured may not automatically apply to every tool, trailer or piece of equipment taken to a job site. - read more
News image: Could Melbourne’s Softer Market Help First Home Buyers? Could Melbourne’s Softer Market Help First Home Buyers?
Wed, 01 Jul: Melbourne may be moving into a rare window for first home buyers, with Domain’s latest forecast suggesting the city’s median house price could fall below $1 million within the next year. The report points to a possible decline of between 4 and 8 per cent, which would make Melbourne the weakest major capital in the forecast period and mark a notable shift from the rapid price growth seen in many other parts of Australia. - read more
News image: Life Insurance Code Review Signals Higher Standards for Insurers Life Insurance Code Review Signals Higher Standards for Insurers
Wed, 01 Jul: The independent review of the Life Insurance Code of Practice has concluded with 85 recommendations that could reshape how Australian life insurers design products, communicate with customers and manage claims. Released on 30 June 2026, the final report places particular emphasis on mental health cover, vulnerable customers, First Nations customers, claims handling, premium transparency and the enforceability of the Code. - read more
News image: Final Life Code Review Signals Higher Standards for Life Insurers Final Life Code Review Signals Higher Standards for Life Insurers
Wed, 01 Jul: The independent review of Australia’s Life Insurance Code of Practice has moved from consultation to action, with reviewer Peter Kell releasing a final report that recommends 85 reforms. For business owners, directors and partners who rely on life cover to protect revenue, debt obligations and succession plans, the review is more than an industry governance exercise. - read more
News image: Final Life Code Review Puts Mental Health Cover Under the Spotlight Final Life Code Review Puts Mental Health Cover Under the Spotlight
Wed, 01 Jul: The final independent review of the Life Insurance Code of Practice has landed with a substantial reform agenda for Australian life insurers, including recommendations that could reshape how mental health cover, claims handling and premium communication are managed in future policies. - read more
News image: What the Life Insurance Code review could mean for key person cover What the Life Insurance Code review could mean for key person cover
Wed, 01 Jul: Australia’s life insurance rule book is set for a significant rethink after the independent review of the Life Insurance Code of Practice released its final report on 30 June 2026. The review recommends 85 measures, with most requiring changes to the Code that guides how life insurers design products, communicate with customers, handle claims and support people in vulnerable circumstances. - read more
News image: Life Insurance Code review puts fairness and mental health cover in focus Life Insurance Code review puts fairness and mental health cover in focus
Wed, 01 Jul: Australia’s life insurance sector is facing a potentially significant rulebook update after the final report from the independent Life Insurance Code of Practice review was released on 30 June 2026. The report recommends 85 measures, many of which would require changes to the Code, with a strong emphasis on clearer obligations, better consumer understanding and fairer treatment during vulnerable moments. - read more
News image: Major Life Code Changes Proposed for Australian Policyholders Major Life Code Changes Proposed for Australian Policyholders
Wed, 01 Jul: The final report from the independent review of the Life Insurance Code of Practice has landed, and it could become one of the more important consumer protection developments for life insurance Australia in recent years. Reviewer Peter Kell has put forward 85 recommendations, with most requiring changes to the Life Code. This update extends our earlier coverage of the interim review, which invited public feedback on how the Code should evolve. - read more