Insurance Industry Calls for Liability Law Reforms as Costs Skyrocket for Entertainment Sectors

The call comes with the release of a white paper highlighting that outdated state-based civil liability laws, untouched for nearly 25 years, are inflating costs significantly.

According to ICA CEO Andrew Hall, while insurers are supporting businesses facing high premium pressures, it's crucial to refine civil liability regulations to ensure they are current and effective. The report suggests that the federal government initiate a national review of tort law and civil liability, focusing on the ability of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and non-profit organisations to secure insurance.

The white paper offers several reform proposals, including reviewing limitation periods, curbing claim farming, redefining dangerous activities, adjusting non-economic loss damages, and revising worker-to-worker and psychological injury claim processes. These steps aim to alleviate the financial strain on businesses struggling with insurance accessibility and affordability.

Mick Gibb, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, emphasises the severe threat posed to live performance venues by the lack of accessible and affordable public liability insurance. He warns of the potential economic loss of a sector valued at over $188 billion.

The report also notes that lengthy claim notification processes, often used as tactical delays, add to costs and proposes stricter rules for claims filed more than three years post-injury. It recommends that lawyers declare their intent to file a claim within three months of being engaged. Furthermore, in cases involving both physical and mental injuries, assessments should utilise the greater of the two in common law claims.

Addressing the increase in third-party nervous shock claims, as exemplified by widespread claims following an elderly patient's death, the report suggests imposing a higher threshold for such claims. It even considers amendments to exclude compensation for nervous shock that doesn’t stem from direct injury to the third party.

Finally, the ICA points out that reforms established after a 2002 review have been gradually undermined due to broad judicial interpretations, growing litigation, active plaintiff lawyers, and rising claim costs, especially related to psychological injuries.

Published:Thursday, 16th Oct 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Insurance Industry Calls for Liability Law Reforms as Costs Skyrocket for Entertainment Sectors

16 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is advocating for comprehensive reforms in liability laws to tackle rising insurance premiums, particularly impacting sectors such as live music venues, festivals, caravan parks, and amusement venues. The call comes with the release of a white paper highlighting that outdated state-based civil liability laws, untouched for nearly 25 years, are inflating costs significantly. - read more

Surge in Profits for Australian Insurers Amid Rising Premiums

15 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In 2024, Australia's insurance industry reported a collective after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a significant increase from the five-year average of $2 billion. This surge is attributed to substantial premium hikes and a relatively quiet year for natural disasters. - read more

Rising Insurance Costs Challenge Australian Businesses Amid Crime Surge

15 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian businesses are confronting escalating insurance premiums, driven by a surge in break-ins and thefts. This trend is placing additional financial strain on business owners already navigating a complex economic environment. - read more

Allianz Australia Penalised for Misleading Insurance Practices

15 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant regulatory development, Allianz Australia and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, have been fined $16.8 million for making false and misleading statements. This penalty underscores the critical importance of transparency and honesty in the insurance industry. - read more

Allianz Australia Completes Acquisition of RAA Insurance

15 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Allianz Australia has successfully completed the acquisition of RAA Insurance for $642 million, marking a significant expansion of its operations in South Australia. This strategic move is set to enhance Allianz's market presence and diversify its service offerings in the region. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Professional Indemnity Insurance Articles

Understanding Risk Management: A Guide for Australian Professionals

Risk management is a crucial concept that involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks with the aim of minimizing their impact. For professionals, understanding and effectively managing risks can make the difference between stagnant growth and thriving success. But why is it particularly significant for those in Australia? - read more

Common Misconceptions About Professional Indemnity Insurance Debunked

Professional indemnity insurance is a type of coverage specifically designed to protect consultants and business professionals from legal claims and financial losses due to errors or omissions in their services. It provides peace of mind for those who offer expert advice or services to clients. - read more

Why Professional Indemnity Insurance is Vital for Protecting Your Reputation as a Consultant

As a consultant, safeguarding your professional reputation is crucial. One effective way to do this is through Professional Indemnity Insurance. But what exactly is it? In simple terms, professional indemnity insurance is designed to protect professionals against claims made by clients for professional negligence or breach of duty. It acts as a safety net, covering legal costs and any damages awarded, if a client alleges that you've made a mistake or left them shortchanged by your services. - read more

Top 5 Reasons Australian Professionals Need Tailored Indemnity Insurance

In the fast-paced and dynamic landscape of today’s professional world, indemnity insurance has become a cornerstone of financial security for many Australian professionals. This type of insurance provides protection against claims of negligence or breach of duty made by clients or third parties. Without this safeguard, professionals may face substantial legal fees and damages that can significantly impact their financial stability. - read more

How to Tailor Your Professional Indemnity Insurance for Better Liability Coverage

Professional indemnity insurance is designed to protect professionals from legal claims made against them due to mistakes or negligence in their work. It acts as a safeguard, covering legal costs and any damages awarded, ensuring that professionals can continue their practice without financial burden. - read more

Knowledgebase

Term Life Insurance:
A life insurance that provides a cover for a specific period of time - usually one to five years or until the insured reaches age 65 or 70.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust) 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228, A.C.N. 010281008, authorised Financial Services Representative of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd, Australian Financial Services License 509434. Visit the ASIC website for additional licensing information.

IMPORTANT: We are neither authorised nor licensed to provide finance or financial products and we do not offer any form of credit or other financial advice. All product enquiries and requests for financial and/or other advice on this website are referred to 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 vaidating 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.