Budget 2025-26 from an insurance lens

31 March 2025
The Budget 2025–26 reshapes the insurance landscape with tax cuts, disaster recovery funding and NDIS reforms, impacting premiums, claims and risk management.
The Australian Government’s 2025–26 Budget, presented by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on 25 March, introduces several measures that will significantly influence the insurance sector. While not specifically targeting insurance providers, these policies will create ripple effects across premiums, claims processing and risk assessment frameworks.
“This Budget highlights the evolving nature of risk management in Australia. With increasing climate-related claims and regulatory shifts, insurers and policyholders alike must reassess their strategies to stay ahead,” says Rouen Van Eck, Executive General Manager, Insurance/Risk/Strategy.
Economic reforms and their insurance consequences
The Budget’s economic measures include meaningful tax relief that may affect insurance affordability. From mid-2026, taxpayers will benefit from a phased reduction in the lowest income tax bracket, decreasing from 16% to 14% by 2027. This reform is projected to provide average annual savings between $268 and $538 per taxpayer, potentially increasing disposable income available for insurance products.
Simultaneously, the government has committed substantial funding to infrastructure development, particularly focusing on Queensland road networks and renewable energy initiatives under the “Future Made in Australia” program. These projects will likely generate new demand for construction-related insurance products and may influence public liability coverage requirements.
“Major infrastructure investment presents both opportunities and challenges for the insurance industry. The increased activity will boost demand for coverage but also requires insurers to be vigilant about evolving risk exposures,” explains Van Eck.
Addressing the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred
The Budget’s disaster response measures directly address the widespread damage caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Early estimates indicate insured losses approaching $1.7 billion, with claims continuing to be processed through the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool.
In response, the government has allocated $1.2 billion for comprehensive disaster recovery programs, including emergency payments and community rebuilding initiatives. A further $17.7 million has been earmarked for bushfire resilience programs, highlighting the ongoing focus on climate-related risk mitigation.
“We’re seeing an undeniable trend of escalating natural disaster costs. This reinforces the importance of policyholders maintaining adequate coverage and working with insurers who understand evolving climate risks,” says Van Eck.
For policyholders affected by recent weather events, we recommend maintaining detailed documentation of all damages and consulting with your insurer before commencing any repair work. Many policies include provisions for temporary accommodation or business interruption coverage that could prove valuable during recovery periods.
NDIS Reforms: Implications for service providers
Significant changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) include a $151 million investment in fraud prevention and compliance measures, alongside the redirection of $364.5 million to foundational support services.
These reforms will likely result in more stringent risk assessments for disability service providers, potentially affecting premium structures for professional indemnity and public liability insurance products. Organisations operating in this sector should review their coverage to ensure alignment with new compliance requirements.
Strategic considerations for policyholders
While the Budget’s tax relief measures and disaster funding may provide some financial relief to households and businesses, the insurance sector continues to face challenges from increasing climate-related claims and evolving regulatory frameworks. These factors may lead to premium adjustments, particularly in high-risk regions and sectors affected by NDIS reforms.
“Now more than ever, businesses and individuals need to take a proactive approach to risk management. The right insurance strategy will be crucial in mitigating exposure to these shifting conditions,” concludes Van Eck.
At DKG Insurance Brokers, we remain committed to helping our customers navigate this changing landscape. Our team is available to discuss how these Budget measures might specifically impact your insurance needs and to review your current coverage arrangements. Please contact us today on 1800 252 926 or email us at insurance@dkg.com.au.
For further information
- Comprehensive Budget details: budget.gov.au
- Cyclone Alfred claims information: insurancecouncil.com.au