Insurance For Trades :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

$30 Billion Flood Defence Fund Proposed in Election Agenda

$30 Billion Flood Defence Fund Proposed in Election Agenda

$30 Billion Flood Defence Fund Proposed in Election Agenda?w=400
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has unveiled its election platform, urging the federal government to significantly enhance flood defences by establishing a $30.15 billion flood defence fund.
This initiative, highlighted as the primary recommendation, seeks to mitigate the catastrophic impact of floods, which are deemed as Australia’s most financially damaging natural disaster.

According to ICA’s proposal, the flood defence fund would be strategically allocated over a ten-year period, with financial responsibilities shared between federal, New South Wales, Queensland, and Victorian governments, as these areas have been identified with the highest flood exposure. The allocation plan includes $15 billion for new flood defence infrastructure, $5 billion to reinforce vulnerable properties, $10 billion for property buyback schemes, and $150 million invested in enhancing current flood mitigation infrastructure.

In addition to flood management, the ICA's platform outlines reforms across various areas, such as optimizing land use planning, introducing rigorous regulatory measures, enhancing building resilience, ensuring consistent investment in the Disaster Ready Fund, and addressing ongoing challenges within the motor repair sector.

As ICA CEO Andrew Hall articulates in the report’s introduction, the previous year saw Australia’s general insurance sector underpinning household and business stability with 41 million policies issued and claims exceeding $32 billion. However, he warns that escalating risks and costs are undermining the affordability and effectiveness of insurance, further compounded by the current cost-of-living crisis, which intensifies pressures on both families and businesses. Hall emphasizes that addressing these issues is imperative and requires decisive action.

The proposed fund is crucial as it directly addresses the financial burdens associated with flood damage, which can devastate community infrastructure, homes, and businesses. By investing in preventive and mitigative measures, the fund aims to reduce the frequency and severity of flood impacts, potentially lowering insurance premiums in high-risk areas and enhancing the overall resilience of Australian cities and towns.

If adopted, the fund could lead to substantial infrastructure projects in flood-prone regions, enhancing community protection and possibly setting a precedent for future climate adaptation policies. The insurance sector, along with state and federal governments, will need to collaborate closely to ensure effective implementation of proposed measures. Additionally, the emphasis on regulatory improvements and infrastructure resilience signals a broader push towards sustainable urban development, aligning economic security with environmental stewardship.

Published:Tuesday, 4th Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Australia’s Insurtech Rise: Pioneering Innovation in Insurance Australia’s Insurtech Rise: Pioneering Innovation in Insurance
12 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian insurtech sector is steadily gaining prominence with innovative products aimed at boosting efficiency, security, and customer interaction. According to a recent report titled 'Insurtech Down Under: Trends, Tech and Triumphs,' the sector's growth is accelerating, supported by strategic investments and technological advancements. - read more
Hacked Company Loses Insurance Battle Over Customer Payment Scam Hacked Company Loses Insurance Battle Over Customer Payment Scam
11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori

A company recently faced a significant setback after losing an insurance claim dispute related to funds stolen in a fraudulent email scheme. Cybercriminals infiltrated the business's email system, sending out fake invoices that directed clients to pay into a bogus bank account. Consequently, two customers inadvertently transferred a total of $66,148 to the fraudulent account. Attempts to retrieve this money were unsuccessful, and the customers refused further payments to the company. - read more
Australia Underwriting Rises to Meet Complex Insurance Challenges Australia Underwriting Rises to Meet Complex Insurance Challenges
11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori

In an evolving insurance landscape where traditional underwriters are hesitant to cover high-risk scenarios, Australia Underwriting has strategically positioned itself to fill this crucial gap. The company has become recognized for its expertise in handling difficult-to-place insurance risks, often ignored by larger insurers focused on lower-risk ventures. Founded by industry veteran George Vincent, the firm has capitalized on unserved market segments and emerged as a vital player in the Australian insurance space. - read more


Latest Financial Articles

Why Australian Households Can't Afford to Skip Insurance

12 Mar 2025 | Household insurance is a critical safety net for many Australian families. It protects against unexpected events such as natural disasters, theft, and accidents, ensuring that your home and belongings can be repaired or replaced if something goes awry.

Cybersecurity Risk Assessment: An Essential Guide for Business Owners

08 Mar 2025 | In today's digital age, cybersecurity has become a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. The increasing reliance on technology means that cyber threats are more prevalent than ever, making it essential for business owners to understand and manage these risks.

How to Determine the Right Income Protection Coverage for Your Needs

08 Mar 2025 | Income protection insurance is a type of coverage designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.