In the first half of 2025, severe weather, including ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, caused extensive damage across New South Wales and Queensland. These events resulted in a substantial number of claims, placing financial pressure on insurers and policyholders alike.
Matthew Jones, ICA's general manager of public affairs, noted that extreme weather events and their growing frequency and intensity are having an impact on all premiums. This trend has led to significant premium increases over the past couple of years.
Homeowners like Shirley McRae from the NSW Mid North Coast have experienced firsthand the challenges posed by rising premiums. Initially paying $984 for comprehensive coverage in 2010, Ms. McRae's premiums have since skyrocketed due to repeated natural disasters affecting her area. The escalating costs have made it difficult for many to maintain adequate insurance coverage.
Experts suggest that insurers are adjusting premiums to account for the increased risk and costs associated with more frequent and severe weather events. Michael Sherris, emeritus professor in actuarial studies at UNSW, explained that insurers have to cover the cost somehow, so they'll spread it across more policyholders and across time. This approach ensures that companies remain solvent and capable of meeting future claims.
The ICA emphasizes the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of extreme weather on insurance premiums. Investing in infrastructure improvements, enforcing stricter building codes, and implementing community resilience programs are among the strategies that could help reduce risk and, consequently, insurance costs.
As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the insurance industry faces the challenge of balancing affordability for policyholders with the need to maintain financial stability. Collaborative efforts between insurers, government agencies, and communities will be essential in developing sustainable solutions to address the rising costs associated with extreme weather events.
