2026 Guide to Insurance Premiums in Australia

Several key factors are contributing to changes in insurance premiums this year:

Climate and Weather Events

Recent severe weather events, such as floods and storms, have led to a rise in insurance claims. This has increased costs for insurers, which are often reflected in higher premiums for policyholders, especially in areas prone to natural disasters.

Regulatory Changes

Australian regulators have introduced new requirements for insurers to strengthen financial stability. While these changes aim to protect consumers, they can also increase insurers’ operating costs, which may be passed on through higher premiums.

Inflation and Supply Chain Pressures

Rising costs for building materials, car parts, and labour—driven by inflation and supply chain disruptions—mean that repairs and replacements are more expensive. This impacts the cost of claims and, in turn, the premiums charged to customers.

Insurance premiums are based on a detailed assessment of risk. While each insurer has its own approach, some common factors influence what you pay:

Personal Risk Profile

• Car Insurance: Your age, driving history, and where you live can all affect your premium. Younger drivers or those with a history of claims may pay more.
• Home Insurance: The value, age, and location of your property are considered. Homes in areas with higher risks of natural disasters or theft may attract higher premiums.

Coverage and Excess Choices

• Level of Cover: Policies with higher cover limits or additional features generally cost more.
• Excess Amount: Choosing a higher excess (the amount you pay if you make a claim) can reduce your premium, but you’ll need to cover more out-of-pocket if you claim.

Claims History

A history of frequent claims can lead to higher premiums or, in some cases, difficulty renewing your policy. Insurers use claims data to assess risk over time.

Policy Bundling

Some insurers offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies, such as home and car insurance. However, these discounts may be less generous than in previous years as insurers manage tighter margins.

While rising premiums are a reality for many Australians, there are steps you can take to help manage your costs:

Review Your Policy Annually

Don’t just let your policy renew automatically. Review your cover each year and compare offers from at least a few different insurers. Online calculators can help you benchmark your premium against similar policies.

Adjust Your Excess

If you’re comfortable with a higher out-of-pocket cost in the event of a claim, increasing your excess can reduce your annual premium. Make sure you have savings set aside to cover the excess if you need to claim.

Update Your Details

Let your insurer know if you’ve made changes that could reduce your risk, such as renovating your home, installing security systems, or changing how you use your car. These updates may help lower your premium.

Look for Discounts

Some insurers offer discounts for new customers or for holding multiple policies. While loyalty discounts are less common, it’s still worth asking your insurer about any available offers.

Consider Usage-Based Insurance

Some insurers now offer car insurance policies where your premium is based on how, when, and how far you drive. If you drive less than average or have safe driving habits, this type of policy may help you save.

The insurance industry continues to evolve in response to ongoing challenges. Here are some trends and protections to be aware of:

Government Initiatives

There are ongoing discussions about ways to make insurance more affordable, especially in regions affected by natural disasters. This may include expanded government-backed reinsurance pools to help manage the cost of cover in high-risk areas.

Improved Disclosure

From mid-2026, new rules require insurers to provide clearer explanations of how premiums are set and what factors influence your costs. This aims to make it easier for consumers to compare policies and understand their options.

Digital Services

More insurers are offering digital tools and app-based policy management, allowing you to adjust your cover, get quotes, and manage claims online. This can make it easier to stay on top of your insurance and make informed decisions.

Why are insurance premiums rising in Australia in 2026?

Premiums are increasing due to factors like severe weather events, regulatory changes, and higher costs for repairs and replacements.

How can I reduce my insurance premium?

Review your policy annually, compare offers, consider increasing your excess, update your details, and ask about available discounts.

Does bundling policies always save money?

Bundling can offer discounts, but these may be smaller than in the past. It’s important to compare bundled and standalone policies to find the best value.

What should I do if I can’t afford my premium?

Contact your insurer to discuss your options. You may be able to adjust your cover or excess, or explore policies from other providers.

Staying informed and proactive is the best way to manage your insurance premiums. Review your policies regularly, understand what influences your costs, and don’t hesitate to seek advice or compare providers. With the right approach, you can help ensure your cover meets your needs without paying more than necessary.