Income Insurance NZ is pleased to present the latest financial news headlines.
To read an entire news item, simply click on the headline.
| Understanding the 4.41% Increase in Private Health Insurance Premiums for 2026 22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori Australian private health insurance premiums are set to rise by an average of 4.41% from 1 April 2026, marking the most significant increase since 2017. Health Minister Mark Butler stated that this adjustment reflects the escalating costs of medical and hospital services, which have risen by 5% over the past financial year. This increase is expected to impact over 15 million Australians who hold private health insurance policies. - read more |
| Health Insurers Respond to Rising Costs with Increased Payments to Private Hospitals 22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori In response to escalating operational costs faced by private hospitals, health insurers have increased their payments to these facilities. Recent data indicates that payments to private hospitals have risen by 7.7% in the year leading up to March 2025. This adjustment aims to support private hospitals during a period of financial strain and to ensure the continued delivery of quality health care services. - read more |
| Health Insurers to Include Natural Therapies in Coverage from 2026 22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori In a significant policy shift, Australian health insurers will begin offering rebates for a range of natural therapies, including Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Shiatsu, Naturopathy, Western herbal medicine, and the Alexander Technique, starting early 2026. This change follows legislative amendments allowing these therapies to be covered under private health insurance for the treatment of health conditions or as part of health management programs. - read more |
| Australian Insurers Highlight Key Challenges for 2026 22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori As 2026 approaches, Australian insurers are facing a trio of pressing challenges: rising premium costs and shrinking insurability, escalating cyber and data risks, and increasing difficulty in hiring and retaining skilled workers. These concerns have been highlighted in industry feedback cited in Gallagher Bassett’s upcoming report, 'The Carrier Perspective: 2026 Claims Insights.' - read more |
| Australian Insurers Under Fire for Steep Premium Increases 22 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori In recent times, Australian consumers have been grappling with substantial increases in insurance premiums, prompting widespread concern and calls for greater transparency within the industry. Reports indicate that some policyholders have experienced premium hikes of up to 600%, leaving many questioning the justification behind such steep increases. - read more |
We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!
Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.
| Understanding Life Insurance: Coverage Types to Protect Your Loved Ones The importance of life insurance in financial planning: Life insurance isn’t just a policy; it’s a cornerstone of comprehensive financial planning. By protecting your family’s financial future, life insurance offers peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones will be taken care of in the event of your untimely passing. It’s not solely about leaving behind a legacy, but also ensuring that your family can maintain their standard of living, pay off debts, and cover end-of-life expenses without financial burden. - read more
|
| Understanding Income Protection Insurance: A Beginner's Guide for Australians Welcome to the essential guide on Income Protection Insurance for Australians. Whether you're just starting out in the workforce or you're well into your career, understanding how to protect your income is crucial. In this beginner-friendly article, we'll explore what income protection insurance is, why it's a vital safeguard for workers, and dive into some real-life scenarios illustrating its importance. - read more
|
| Separating Fact from Fiction: The Myths of Income Insurance Revealed Have you ever thought about how you would manage financially if you couldn't work due to an illness or injury? Income protection insurance is designed to replace a significant portion of your income if you find yourself unable to earn for an extended period. It's an essential safety net, providing peace of mind and financial stability during times of uncertainty. - read more
|
| Income Protection for Farmers: Ensuring Stability Through Tough Times The world of farming is one filled with uncertainties. Weather conditions, market prices, and various other factors can create a highly volatile income stream for those within the agricultural sector. This unpredictability can lead to financial instability that impacts not only the farmers themselves but also their families and the larger rural community. - read more
|
| Protecting Your Professional Income: Understanding Income Protection Insurance Income protection insurance is a financial safety net for individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury. It ensures that you receive a percentage of your income during times when you cannot earn a salary, helping you maintain your lifestyle as you recover. This type of insurance offers peace of mind by providing financial support when it is needed most, allowing you to focus on recovery rather than financial pressures. - read more
|