Climate Change Threatens Australian Suburbs with Unaffordable Insurance
Climate Change Threatens Australian Suburbs with Unaffordable Insurance
Properties identified as high-risk are likely to encounter skyrocketing insurance costs, according to the report commissioned by the Climate Council. Karl Mallon, the founder of Climate Valuation, emphasized the immediacy of the threat posed by climate change, urging decision-makers to address the concerning statistics detailed in the research.
The climate group's modelling identifies 86 suburbs as "critical climate risk zones," wherein 80% to 100% of properties are at risk of becoming financially uninsurable if current trends persist.
The escalating risks and rising cost of insuring these properties underscore the broader financial repercussions of climate change on Australian communities. The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has noted that insurers have long cautioned about these escalating risks, tying rising insurance premiums to extreme weather events, which have resulted in $4.5 billion insured costs annually over the past five years. This marks a nearly 70% increase compared to the previous five-year period, with projected costs reaching $35 billion by 2050 if no mitigating actions are undertaken.
The report highlights the potential backlash on the economy if insurance becomes inaccessible, with valuable community resilience being the key to maintaining affordability and availability of coverage.
The ICA advocates for significant investments in resilience and mitigation, such as a proposed $30 billion investment in flood defenses. It also urges the removal of unfair state insurance taxes and the promotion of household resilience measures, which some insurers already incentivize through premium reductions.
Climate Valuation additionally suggests several measures including retrofitting homes, relocating properties in extreme cases, halting development in high-risk areas, and ensuring that new constructions are climate-resilient as per the National Construction Code adaptation. These steps, it argues, would not only protect communities but also relieve pressure on insurance premiums, delivering what they describe as a "double dividend."
The report calls for a comprehensive integration of "climate proofing" into national standards to prevent placing more Australians in harm's way and to foster the development of sustainable, resilient infrastructure.
Published:Thursday, 17th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori
Share this news item:
| Calls for Super Funds to Accelerate Mental Health Insurance Claims Processing 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Consumer advocates are raising concerns over significant delays in processing mental health-related insurance claims by Australian superannuation funds. As mental health conditions become a leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims, the efficiency of claim processing has come under scrutiny. - read more |
| GT Insurance Provides Flexible Solutions Amid Global Trade Shifts 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori As global trade dynamics undergo significant shifts, GT Insurance is reaffirming its commitment to supporting marine clients navigating these challenges. The recent imposition of US tariffs—25% on Australian steel and aluminium, and 10% on other exported goods—has introduced new uncertainties for local exporters, particularly in sectors like beef and bulk freight. These tariffs, effective from April 5, 2025, have prompted concerns about declining export volumes and reduced freight margins. - read more |
| Northern Australian Marinas Struggle with Rising Insurance Costs 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Marina operators in Northern Australia are confronting a significant crisis as insurance premiums escalate dramatically, with some experiencing increases exceeding 300% over recent years. This surge in costs is placing immense financial strain on the industry, prompting urgent calls for government intervention. - read more |
| Significant Rise in Australian Home Insurance Premiums in 2025 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori In 2025, Australian homeowners experienced a substantial increase in home and contents insurance premiums, with the average annual premium rising by 14%, equating to an additional $343. This surge has placed a significant financial burden on many households, prompting concerns about the affordability and accessibility of essential insurance coverage. - read more |
| Covering the Unexpected: A Guide to Trauma Insurance for Australian Families Trauma insurance, also known as critical illness insurance, is a type of coverage that provides a lump sum payment in the event that the insured suffers from a critical illness or injury. Unlike health insurance, which covers medical expenses, trauma insurance is designed to provide financial protection by helping to cover the additional costs associated with recovery from a severe illness or injury. - read more
|
| Life Insurance Comparison: Key Questions to Ask Your Insurer Life insurance is a crucial consideration for middle-aged to older Australians. It provides financial security for your loved ones in the unfortunate event of your death. Understanding the various options available is vital to making an informed decision. - read more
|
| How to Protect Your Income During Health Setbacks: A Complete Guide Income protection is a crucial safety net for Australians, offering financial security when health setbacks strike. This type of insurance ensures that you continue to receive a portion of your income if illness or injury prevents you from working. It’s an essential aspect of financial planning, providing peace of mind knowing that you can maintain your lifestyle even when unforeseen health issues arise. - read more
|
| The Impact of Parenthood on Your Life Insurance Choices Life insurance, a contract between an insurer and a policyholder, is designed to provide financial protection to loved ones in the event of the policyholder's death. For parents, this protection takes on a new level of significance. The birth of a child heralds a profound shift in priorities, with a focus on safeguarding the future of one's family. Hence, understanding life insurance options becomes a crucial aspect of responsible parenting. - read more
|
A fixed amount you pay for a covered healthcare service, usually when you receive the service.