Trades Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny

Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny

Medical Professional Coverage Costs Under Scrutiny?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.

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
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

APRA's Call for Immediate Action on Extreme Weather Mitigation
APRA's Call for Immediate Action on Extreme Weather Mitigation
15 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released a landmark report emphasising the urgent need for ambitious action and investment to protect communities from the escalating impact of extreme weather events. The Insurance Climate Vulnerability Assessment (ICVA) serves as a stress test, highlighting risks that are already materialising and supporting the insurance industry's calls for immediate mitigation efforts. - read more
Navigating Rising Premiums and Cybersecurity Challenges in Australia's Insurance Sector
Navigating Rising Premiums and Cybersecurity Challenges in Australia's Insurance Sector
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
As 2026 unfolds, Australian insurers are grappling with significant challenges that threaten both their operational stability and the affordability of coverage for policyholders. Key among these are the escalating costs of premiums and the persistent threat of cyber incidents. - read more
Bridging the Gap: Enhancing AI and Cyber Risk Preparedness in Australia's Insurance Industry
Bridging the Gap: Enhancing AI and Cyber Risk Preparedness in Australia's Insurance Industry
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent studies have revealed that Australian insurers are trailing their global counterparts in preparedness for artificial intelligence (AI) and cyber risks. This lag poses significant challenges to the industry's resilience and competitiveness. - read more
The Financial Toll of Climate Change on Australian Properties and Insurance
The Financial Toll of Climate Change on Australian Properties and Insurance
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Climate change is exerting a profound impact on Australia's property market and insurance industry. Recent data indicates that increased flood risks have led to a substantial devaluation of properties in vulnerable areas, with some regions experiencing value declines of up to 10%. - read more
ASIC Takes Legal Action Against Budget Direct for Misleading Discounts
ASIC Takes Legal Action Against Budget Direct for Misleading Discounts
30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal proceedings against Auto & General, the parent company of Budget Direct, alleging that the insurer engaged in misleading advertising practices concerning policy discounts. This action underscores the regulator's commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness within the Australian insurance industry. - read more


Trades Insurance Articles

How to Choose the Best Commercial Vehicle Insurance for Your Trade Business
How to Choose the Best Commercial Vehicle Insurance for Your Trade Business
For tradespeople, protecting your tools and equipment is crucial. These are not just tools; they are the backbone of your business. Without them, you can't complete jobs, meet client expectations, or generate income. This includes your Vehicle. - read more
Creating a Monthly Budget Plan for Small Australian Trade Businesses
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
A Beginner’s Guide to Trades Insurance in Australia
A Beginner’s Guide to Trades Insurance in Australia
Trades insurance is a type of coverage specifically designed to protect those who work in various trades, such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and builders. It encompasses a range of insurance products tailored to address the unique risks and challenges faced by tradespeople in their day-to-day activities. - read more
5 Key Benefits of Trade Insurance You Can’t Afford to Ignore
5 Key Benefits of Trade Insurance You Can’t Afford to Ignore
Trade insurance is an essential safeguard for subcontractors in Australia. It offers a safety net that protects against the uncertainties and inherent risks in the industry. Whether you're a plumber, electrician, or construction worker, having the right kind of insurance can mean the difference between financial stability and ruin. - read more
How Public Liability Insurance Protects Your Trades Business
How Public Liability Insurance Protects Your Trades Business
Public liability insurance is a type of coverage designed to protect businesses against claims of property damage or personal injury caused by their work. This type of insurance is essential for trades professionals, as it provides financial protection against legal and compensation costs arising from incidents related to their services. - read more

Knowledgebase
Depreciation:
The reduction in the value of an asset over time, used in insurance to calculate the actual cash value of property.