Financial Advice Landscape Set for Further Overhaul
Financial Advice Landscape Set for Further Overhaul
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
Financial industry professionals are bracing for significant changes as new reforms surrounding commission consent in financial advice have moved into effect.
With the successful passage of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Delivering Better Financial Outcomes and Other Measures) Bill 2024, the sector anticipates a substantial shift in how financial advisories are delivered to retail clients.
This legislation marks a pivotal first step in a series of upcoming financial advice reforms initiated by the federal government. It mandates brokers to obtain consent when charging commissions for personal advice, aiming to foster better transparency and affordability in the financial advice provided.
According to the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA), these reforms will play a critical role in ensuring that comprehensive risk advice remains both accessible and affordable across Australia. "We are eager to partner with the government and regulatory bodies to implement these reforms," said a representative from NIBA. "Our focus is to support our members in navigating these changes without compromising the quality of advice they deliver."
NIBA has pledged to work closely with its members throughout the year to facilitate adherence to the new legislative requirements. The organization is set on equipping its members with the necessary tools and guidance to continue offering premium services while ensuring compliance with the latest standards.
Meanwhile, insurers are also gearing up for the next round of reforms. A spokesperson from the Insurance Council of Australia expressed readiness to engage in phase two consultations. "The subsequent phase of these reforms addresses the unmet demand for financial advice among individuals with straightforward financial scenarios," the spokesperson remarked. "We are keen to explore the opportunities this presents."
Stephen Jones, Financial Services Minister, emphasized that the new legislation augments transparency and strengthens consumer safeguards in personal insurance advice. He mentioned that the next set of reforms, slated for development later this year, aims to enhance both the reach and affordability of financial advice across the board.
"Our forthcoming reforms will modernize key aspects of financial advising, including the revision of statements of advice and the best-interests duty. Additionally, changes are set to enable financial institutions to provide what we term 'simple' advice, a valuable addition for consumers with straightforward needs," Jones noted.
It is worth mentioning that the recently passed bill included crucial amendments to rectify draft errors that might have inadvertently banned commissions for brokers providing general advice. Furthermore, it contains a provision allowing individuals to leverage their superannuation accounts to cover costs associated with receiving personal financial advice from independent advisors.
These industry-changing reforms promise to reshape the financial advisory landscape significantly, making quality advice more transparent, accessible, and affordable for all Australians. Immediate and collaborative efforts from industry players are cited as imperative for a smooth transition. As reported by Insurance News Magazine, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones has indicated his firm stance against succumbing to populist politics concerning affordability, emphasizing a balanced and well-developed approach to these reforms.
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
Australia’s general insurance sector is facing a proposed step-up in accountability, with the Insurance Council of Australia opening consultation on a new draft General Insurance Code of Practice on 24 June 2026. For truck owners, small fleet operators and transport businesses, the most relevant shift is not just the wording of the code, but the possibility that parts of it could become contractually enforceable for the first time, subject to ASIC approval. - read more
New market data points to a meaningful lift in Australians taking out individual income protection insurance, suggesting more households are reassessing how they would manage financially if illness or injury interrupted their pay. - read more
A recent sanction against an unnamed life insurer has put claims handling back under the spotlight, particularly for Australians who rely on personal insurance as a financial safety net. The Life Insurance Code Compliance Committee found that the insurer failed to request required information from claimants at the earliest available opportunity, contributing to significant delays for some customers waiting on claim decisions. - read more
The Insurance Council of Australia has released a draft General Insurance Code of Practice for feedback, marking a significant step in the industry’s push to strengthen customer protections. Released on 24 June 2026, the draft is open for consultation until 21 July 2026 and is designed to make key obligations legally enforceable through insurance contracts. - read more
A new specialist insurance product for Australian crane and rigging operators is a timely reminder that not every business fits neatly into a standard policy box. ARTes Specialty, working with wholesale provider Mobius Insurance, has launched an integrated crane and rigging policy for the local market, adding to its earlier Australian offerings for commercial loggers and contractors’ plant and equipment. - read more
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on car insurance in Australia! Whether you're a seasoned driver or a newcomer to the roads, understanding car insurance is crucial for protecting yourself and your vehicle against unforeseen events. - read more
Car insurance is an essential part of owning and driving a vehicle, providing protection and peace of mind on the road. While most Australians are familiar with the basic coverage options, understanding the finer details of premium calculations can be quite complex. One of the key factors influencing these calculations is age. - read more
Car insurance is a critical component of responsible vehicle ownership in Australia. With roads bustling with diverse traffic, from urban highways to outback tracks, safeguarding your journey becomes indispensable. However, the complex world of car insurance can bewilder even the most astute driver. This article embarks on a quest to demystify the process of comparing car insurance quotes, aiming for not just coverage, but substantial savings too. - read more
Car insurance is an essential expenditure for any vehicle owner, but are you truly aware of all the costs involved? Many Australians focus solely on the premiums, overlooking additional charges that can significantly impact their budget. Understanding these hidden costs is crucial to avoid an unpleasant surprise. - read more
Car insurance is an essential part of owning a vehicle in Australia, providing financial protection and peace of mind. Standard coverage typically includes protection against collision damage, theft, and various liabilities. However, the world of car insurance doesn’t stop here; enter the realm of 'extras' - additional options that go beyond the basics. - read more
Knowledgebase
Double Indemnity: A clause or provision in a life insurance policy that doubles the payout in cases of accidental death.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.