icare Ushers in Major Changes Starting Next Week
icare Ushers in Major Changes Starting Next Week
NSW Treasury's review sheds light on a complex legacy of governance, culture, and accountability issues within icare. The review highlights the need for proactive management and closer collaboration between NSW Treasury, icare, and the State Insurance Regulatory Authority to establish an enhanced reporting framework that supports greater accountability.
The review has been seen as a guiding document for icare’s next phase. According to a spokesperson for icare, "This is an opportunity to deepen our commitment to transformation and address the recommendations comprehensively. Our internal initiatives already indicate that we can achieve more than a 5% reduction in core operational expenses."
Work Health and Safety Minister Sophie Cotsis emphasized the necessity of these changes to restore public confidence in icare. "Transparency and operational efficiency are paramount. This review will serve as a road map to elevate accountability within icare and across the state insurance system," she said.
A noteworthy alteration includes amendments to the State Insurance and Care Governance Act 2015. These changes are intended to bolster the accountability and transparency of icare's business performance. A significant shift will see icare's CEO no longer serving on the board, and the Secretary of the Treasury Department joining the board. Additionally, CEO appointments will now require ministerial approval.
icare has had a challenging few months, including the July departure of CEO Richard Harding. The insurer, which handles around 80,000 claims annually for about four million workers, is actively searching for a new CEO. In the interim, focused efforts are being made to save approximately $23 million a year. Talks with union representatives and staff are underway, with potential impacts on up to 130 jobs among icare’s approximately 1,800 employees.
Cotsis has also directed a letter to icare chair John Robertson seeking detailed plans on how the review's findings will be implemented. "Thorough and clear responses will be necessary to navigate these changes effectively," she added.
The information and insights shared in this article originate from a similar piece published on insuranceNEWS.com.au, ensuring that all steps are taken to offer a fresh perspective while keeping you informed of the pivotal structural changes within icare.
Published:Tuesday, 1st Oct 2024
Source: Paige Estritori
Share this news item:
| AUSactive and Health Partners Collaborate to Enhance Fitness Service Accessibility 13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori AUSactive, Australia's peak body for the exercise and active health sector, has announced a significant partnership with Health Partners, a not-for-profit health fund with over 85 years of service to South Australians. This collaboration recognises eligible AUSactive Personal Trainers and fitness businesses as approved providers, allowing Health Partners members to claim benefits for personal training sessions, classes, and gym memberships under their Extras policy when part of a medically necessary health management plan. - read more |
| AIA Australia Teams Up with Peloton and Specialized to Encourage Active Lifestyles 13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori AIA Australia, a leading life, health, and wellbeing insurer, has announced partnerships with global fitness company Peloton and premium cycling brand Specialized. These collaborations aim to provide AIA Vitality members with significant discounts and incentives to promote cycling, both at home and outdoors. - read more |
| Australian Insurers Achieve Record Profits Amid Rising Premiums 13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori In 2024, Australia's insurance sector reported an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a significant increase from the five-year average of $2 billion. This surge is primarily attributed to substantial premium hikes and a relatively calm year concerning natural disasters. - read more |
| Government Consultancy Contracts Near $1 Billion Amid Outsourcing Reduction Efforts 13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Recent research indicates that the Australian federal government signed contracts worth nearly $1 billion with consultancy firms in the last financial year, marking a 48% increase from the previous year. This development comes despite the government's commitment to reduce reliance on external consultants. - read more |
| The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies Income protection insurance is often surrounded by the myth of being unaffordable, deterring many Australians from safeguarding their most valuable asset—their ability to earn. This introduction aims to address this misconception head on, revealing the real value that income insurance policies can provide. It is crucial to understand that the cost of such a policy pales in comparison to the potential financial hardship faced without one. - read more
|
| Keeping Your Family Protected: The Importance of Adequate Health Insurance Coverage The modern Australian family faces a dynamic and ever-evolving set of health needs, with access to quality healthcare remaining a cornerstone of managing our wellbeing. As these needs shift through the different stages of life, the assurance of having a safety net in place can provide unparalleled peace of mind. It's this sense of security that makes adequate health insurance coverage indispensable in today's fast-paced society. - read more
|
| Income Protection Insurance vs. Life Insurance: What's the Difference? Insurance is a crucial aspect of financial planning, offering protection against unexpected events that can have significant financial impacts. Among the various insurance options available, two prominent types are Income Protection Insurance and Life Insurance. - read more
|
| Income Insurance Calculators: A User-Friendly Tool for Adequate Coverage Income insurance, also known as income protection insurance, is a type of policy designed to provide support in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury. In today's uncertain economic climate, securing your income is more critical than ever. It acts as a financial safety net, ensuring that you can continue to meet your living expenses without depleting your savings or facing severe financial hardship. - read more
|
Insurance which provides protection against liability to third parties.