Car Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Rising Costs and Labour Shortages Impact Insurance Claims Processing in 2026

Crawford & Company Reports Increased Duration and Expenses in Claims Settlements

Rising Costs and Labour Shortages Impact Insurance Claims Processing in 2026?w=400

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.

In 2026, Australian insurance claims are experiencing increased processing times and higher costs, as reported by Crawford & Company.
The primary factors contributing to this trend include persistent labour shortages, elevated construction expenses, and the growing complexity of claims, particularly in strata and high-density environments.

Tim Butler, Head of Contractor Connection and CRD at Crawford & Company, noted that while the market is not chaotic, tight capacity and rising complexity are driving up costs. He highlighted that the repair market is a small segment of the broader construction sector, meaning many cost pressures are macroeconomic and beyond insurers' control.

For construction businesses, this environment underscores the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage and proactive risk management strategies. By understanding and addressing these challenges, companies can better navigate the evolving landscape of insurance claims and maintain operational resilience.

Published:Tuesday, 5th May 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

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.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

ACCC Intensifies Review of IAG's Proposed RAC Insurance Acquisition
ACCC Intensifies Review of IAG's Proposed RAC Insurance Acquisition
05 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has escalated its scrutiny of Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) proposed acquisition of RAC Insurance, moving the process to a Phase 2 review. This decision reflects concerns that the merger could significantly reduce competition within Western Australia's insurance sector. - read more
ACCC Evaluates Swiss Re's Acquisition of QBE's Trade Credit & Surety Business
ACCC Evaluates Swiss Re's Acquisition of QBE's Trade Credit & Surety Business
05 May 2026: Paige Estritori
Swiss Re International SE's proposal to acquire specific assets from QBE Insurance Holdings, particularly its Trade Credit & Surety business, is currently under review by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). This evaluation aims to determine the acquisition's potential effects on competition within Australia's insurance sector. - read more
Suncorp Demonstrates Resilience Amid Escalating Natural Hazard Expenses
Suncorp Demonstrates Resilience Amid Escalating Natural Hazard Expenses
05 May 2026: Paige Estritori
Suncorp Group has reported a substantial increase in natural hazard costs for the first half of the 2026 financial year, with expenses rising to AU$1.319 billion from AU$503 million in the corresponding period of the previous year. Despite this significant escalation, the company maintains a strong capital position and a resilient underlying business. - read more
Mirabelle Unveils Lloyd's-Backed Insurance for Renewable Energy Projects
Mirabelle Unveils Lloyd's-Backed Insurance for Renewable Energy Projects
05 May 2026: Paige Estritori
Mirabelle Underwriting has recently introduced a new insurance product specifically designed for renewable energy operations in Australia. This initiative is backed by Lloyd's capacity, ensuring robust support for the burgeoning green energy sector. - read more
NSW Government Proposes Reforms to Strengthen Construction Industry Standards
NSW Government Proposes Reforms to Strengthen Construction Industry Standards
05 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The New South Wales Government has introduced the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, a legislative initiative designed to bolster consumer protections and elevate standards within the construction industry. - read more


Car Insurance Articles

Tips for Finding Affordable Car Insurance Without Sacrificing Coverage in Australia
Tips for Finding Affordable Car Insurance Without Sacrificing Coverage in Australia
Car insurance is a crucial aspect of owning a vehicle, providing financial protection in case of accidents, theft, and other unexpected events. However, finding the right balance between affordability and adequate coverage can be a challenging task. - read more
Don't Get Caught: Essential Tips for Avoiding Car Insurance Mistakes
Don't Get Caught: Essential Tips for Avoiding Car Insurance Mistakes
When it comes to protecting your vehicle and your finances, car insurance is a crucial investment. In Australia, car insurance helps cover the costs associated with accidents, theft, and other unexpected events on the road. - read more
Are Extras Worth the Investment? Unpacking Car Insurance Add-Ons
Are Extras Worth the Investment? Unpacking Car Insurance Add-Ons
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
From Airbags to AI: The Future of Car Safety Technology
From Airbags to AI: The Future of Car Safety Technology
Car safety has come a long way since the early days of motoring. Initially, vehicles had minimal safety features, and accidents often led to severe injuries or fatalities. Over the years, technological advancements have significantly improved the safety of cars, making them much safer for drivers and passengers alike. - read more
Understanding Insurance Jargon: A Guide for Comparing Online Quotes
Understanding Insurance Jargon: A Guide for Comparing Online Quotes
Insurance jargon refers to the specialized terminology and phrases used within the insurance industry. These terms can often be confusing and complicated for those not familiar with the field. - read more

Knowledgebase
Trauma Insurance:
An insurance that pays a lump-sum amount on the diagnosis of one of several critical illnesses or events