Recent evaluations by the regulator unveiled significant weaknesses, including insufficient due diligence mechanisms for assessing and supervising third-party distributors, subpar consumer questionnaires, and a general lack of monitoring of consumer outcomes and product performance.
“This review offers an insight into how different industries and products are adhering to design and distribution obligations,” stated ASIC commissioner Alan Kirkland. “Where improvements can be made, we expect issuers and distributors to scrutinize the reports and elevate their distribution approaches.”
From October last year up until last month, ASIC's review covered 19 product issuers, including providers of funeral and accident insurance. The examination revealed persistent issues, particularly in funeral and accident insurance, where consumers still received quotes despite being outside the intended target market based on "knockout" question responses. Moreover, consumer questionnaires often only inquired about age, an eligibility criterion, without addressing critical affordability concerns.
Under the design and distribution obligations regime implemented since October 2021, financial product issuers are mandated to ensure their products are designed for and marketed to the correct target audience. This involves creating a target market determination statement for each product, outlining its appropriateness for the intended consumers and ensuring distribution conditions align with this target market.
“ASIC is particularly focused on fostering adherence to the design and distribution obligations,” the regulator mentioned. “We are committed to regulatory actions where necessary and leveraging these obligations to enhance consumer outcomes.”
Mr. Kirkland shared that ASIC has launched five civil proceedings related to these obligations, achieving three victories so far. Additionally, the commission has issued over 80 stop orders and published findings from seven reviews since the obligations came into effect.
Based on an article from Financial Services Online, it's clear that the current state of compliance in distribution need a proactive approach to better cater to the needs and protection of consumers. Taking heed of these regulatory insights will benefit both issuers and consumers in the long run.
Published:Thursday, 19th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori
| Significant Increase in Health Insurance Premiums Anticipated for 2026 21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Health insurance premiums are set to experience a substantial increase in 2026, with projections indicating a global rise of 10.3%. This marks the third consecutive year of significant hikes, following increases of 10% in 2025 and 9.5% in 2024. These figures are highlighted in WTW's 2026 Global Medical Trends report, underscoring the persistent inflationary pressures affecting insurers and employer-sponsored health plans worldwide. - read more |
| Private Health Insurers Under Scrutiny for Profits Amid Rising Premiums 21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Recent analyses have brought to light significant concerns regarding the profit margins of private health insurers in Australia, especially in the context of rising premiums. The Australia Institute has highlighted that major insurers are reporting substantial profits while simultaneously increasing premiums, a situation that has sparked criticism and calls for greater transparency within the industry. - read more |
| Health Minister Puts Private Health Insurers on Notice Over Pricing Practices 21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Health Minister Mark Butler has issued a stern warning to private health insurers in Australia, cautioning them against employing underhanded tactics to increase premiums. This comes in response to findings from the Commonwealth Ombudsman, which revealed that some insurers have been closing old policies and introducing more expensive new ones, effectively circumventing regulatory limits on premium hikes. - read more |
| AUSactive Unveils Comprehensive Insurance Solution for Fitness Professionals 21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori AUSactive, Australia's leading body for the exercise and active health sector, has announced the launch of a new insurance product tailored specifically for fitness professionals. This initiative, developed in collaboration with global insurance broker Marsh, aims to provide enhanced protection while offering lower premiums compared to existing market options. - read more |
| Everything You Need to Know About Waiting Periods and Income Protection Benefits Income protection insurance is a crucial financial product designed to secure a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. This type of insurance acts as a financial safety net, ensuring that you can maintain your lifestyle and meet essential expenses while recovering. - read more
|
| Breaking Down Common Income Protection Insurance Terms Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It aims to replace a portion of your income during such times, ensuring you can maintain your lifestyle and meet financial obligations. - read more
|
| The Importance of Disability Income Protection Programs for Cafe Owners Running a cafe is more than just a business; it’s a passion for many. However, for cafe owners, the risk of an injury or illness that could interrupt their ability to work is a genuine concern. Disability income protection is crucial as it provides financial security if you're unable to earn an income due to health issues. - read more
|
| Affordable Health Insurance: How to Find the Best Plan for You Affordable health insurance refers to insurance plans that offer necessary health coverage at a price within one's financial means. These plans aim to balance cost with the quality of care, providing essential services without excessive financial burden. The goal is to make healthcare accessible to a wider population, ensuring that everyone can maintain their health without going into debt. - read more
|