Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny

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.

Amid rising concerns, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) has flagged the escalating expenses associated with indemnity insurance premiums as a serious issue that demands attention.

Following a heated discussion at a recent national conference held on the Gold Coast, the AMA and its New South Wales branch convened with a number of medical defence organisations to tackle this pressing matter.

During these meetings, participants delved into changes in healthcare delivery and the evolving scopes of medical practice-factors contributing significantly to the rising costs within the medical indemnity sector.

According to a statement published on the AMA’s website, the Medical Defence Organisations (MDOs), which largely operate as member-based mutual entities, acknowledged the industry's growing unease. They shared global insurance market trends and emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication and collaborative efforts with the AMA to address systemic policy issues. Despite the need for cooperation, the constraints of competition law were noted as a limiting factor.

The organizations represented at the meeting included key industry players such as Avant, MDA National, Medical Indemnity Protection Society, MIGA, and Tego.

In its latest report, Avant informed Insurance News that their average rate increments have managed to remain below inflation for several renewal periods. Nevertheless, certain specialized fields have experienced sharp double-digit rate hikes due to specific claim frequencies and severities, affecting less than 1% of their membership.

Published:Wednesday, 4th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Australian Insurers Face Growing Challenges in Risk Preparedness

17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are increasingly vulnerable compared to their global counterparts, particularly in areas of risk preparedness. The survey, which gathered insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, indicates that Australian insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index than the global average. This gap underscores the pressing need for the Australian insurance sector to bolster its strategies against emerging threats. - read more

Declining Value in Private Health Insurance Sparks Calls for Reform

17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has raised concerns about the diminishing value of private health insurance for Australians. In its annual Private Health Insurance Report Card, the AMA highlights that the system is increasingly failing to provide value for money to the approximately 15 million Australians holding private health insurance policies. - read more

Australian Insurers Embrace Innovation to Combat Natural Hazard Risks

17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian insurance market is witnessing a transformative shift as insurers adopt innovative solutions to address the escalating risks associated with natural hazards. The inaugural Property Catastrophe and Climate Governance Report by Global Insurance Law Connect highlights several key developments aimed at enhancing resilience and closing the protection gap. - read more

Celebrating Excellence: Finalists Announced for 21st Australian Insurance Industry Awards

09 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF) has unveiled the finalists for the 21st Australian Insurance Industry Awards, set to take place on Thursday, 21 August 2025, at the Star Event Centre in Sydney. These prestigious awards honour the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations across the entire insurance value chain, highlighting the depth of talent, innovation, and dedication within the industry. - read more

Allianz Australia Penalised $16.8 Million for Misleading Conduct

09 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant regulatory action, Allianz Australia and its subsidiary AWP Australia have been fined $16.8 million for making false and misleading statements. The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions imposed the fines following an investigation and referral by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Trades Insurance Articles

Critical Insurance Mistakes Australian Tradespeople Are Making

Insurance is a critical component for tradespeople in Australia, providing financial protection against a range of risks that can significantly impact your livelihood. Adequate insurance coverage ensures that you are protected against potential liabilities, damages, and unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise lead to substantial financial losses. - read more

Top Strategies for Australian Tradespeople to Slash Insurance Premiums

Trade insurance is an essential aspect of running a successful trade business in Australia. Whether you are a carpenter, electrician, plumber, or any other type of tradesperson, having the right insurance coverage protects you from unexpected risks and liabilities that could otherwise derail your operations. - read more

How Tradespeople Can Maximize Tax Deductions Through Insurance

Tradespeople work hard to earn their income, often facing unique expenses that can impact their bottom line. Understanding and maximizing tax deductions is crucial for minimizing these costs and keeping more of what they earn. By making informed decisions about expenses, tradespeople can significantly reduce their taxable income. - read more

Creating a Monthly Budget Plan for Small Australian Trade Businesses

Creating a monthly budget is essential for any business, but it holds particular importance for small trade businesses in Australia. Effective budgeting can help you manage cash flow, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure financial stability. - read more

Why Every Subcontractor in Australia Needs Proper Insurance

Insurance is a crucial safeguard for everyone, but for subcontractors, it's essential. In the world of trade professionals, the tools of the trade are more than just pieces of equipment; they are investments into one's livelihood. - read more

Knowledgebase

Professional indemnity:
An insurance that provides cover for liability incurred in the course of exercising a profession.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.