ACCC Strengthens Position Against Broker Commissions

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.

In a recent submission to the professional code of practice review, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has reiterated its position against broker commissions.

Echoing findings from its 2020 Northern Australia Insurance Inquiry, the ACCC advocates for extending the ban on conflicted remuneration to include brokers.

The issue stems from the practice where broker commissions are often based on premium amounts, potentially discouraging brokers from pursuing more cost-effective coverage or options that pay lower or no commissions for clients. Despite full disclosure of such remuneration to consumers, the ACCC argues that the inherent conflict remains problematic.

ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb, in the submission, underlined that while some consumers might resist an upfront fee akin to commissions, the transition challenges away from conflicted remuneration models do not justify retaining exemptions permitting them. This echoes a broader reform ethos initiated by the federal government in 2023, stipulating that brokers must secure client consent to receive commissions when providing personal advice.

NSW Fair Trading, in its independent review of strata sector practices, has also highlighted the need for the broking code of practice to enhance commission practices. Commissioner Natasha Mann advocates for bolstered disclosure obligations, promoting transparency in brokers' remuneration and ownership structures, coupled with robust compliance monitoring mechanisms.

Further perspectives include those from consultant John Trowbridge, who supports the continuation of commissions but emphasizes the necessity for brokers to transparently disclose all commission-related earnings. Trowbridge also suggests that the National Insurance Brokers Association offer guidelines to elucidate conflict management and fiduciary responsibilities within the industry.

The WA Small Business Development Corporation has expressed support for widening the disclosure requirements scope, advocating for the inclusion of small businesses. By aligning with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority rules, small enterprises, often with limited resources, stand to benefit from an expanded definition that enhances clarity on financial incentives influencing broker services.

The industry awaits further developments from the review, led by Phil Khoury, as its submission deadline approaches.

Published:Friday, 2nd May 2025
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 Challenges in Cybersecurity Readiness

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in cybersecurity preparedness. This lag is particularly concerning given the rapid evolution of cyber threats, especially those enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI). - read more

Australian General Insurers Report Record Profits Amid Premium Hikes

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's general insurance industry has reported a remarkable financial performance, achieving a 19% return on equity (ROE) for the 2025 financial year-the highest in a decade. This significant milestone reflects a combination of strategic premium increases and favourable market conditions. - read more

Australian Life Insurance Sector Anticipates Steady Growth Amid Economic Recovery

22 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian life insurance market is on a trajectory of steady growth, with projections indicating an increase in gross written premiums (GWP) from $26.2 billion in 2025 to $30.5 billion by 2029. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9%, reflecting a positive outlook for the sector. - read more

QBE Insurance Faces Market Challenges with Slower Premium Growth

14 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

QBE Insurance Group, Australia's largest insurer by market value, recently experienced a significant decline in its share price, reaching a seven-month low. This downturn is primarily attributed to a slowdown in the company's premium rate growth during the third quarter of 2025. - read more

Australian Insurers Achieve Record Profits Amid Rising Premiums

14 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's insurance industry has reported an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion for the year 2024, a figure that is three times higher than the five-year average of $2 billion. This substantial increase is attributed to significant premium hikes and a relatively benign year for natural disasters. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Real Estate Agents Insurance Articles

Navigating the Risks: Essential Insurance Solutions for Real Estate Agents

In the dynamic world of real estate, managing risks is as crucial as closing a sale. Real estate agents in Australia constantly navigate a landscape full of potential pitfalls, from market fluctuations to client disputes. Understanding these risks and having strategies to manage them is essential for a successful career. - read more

Common Insurance Pitfalls for Real Estate Professionals

As a real estate professional, safeguarding your business through adequate insurance is crucial. The real estate industry is fraught with risks, from property damage to client disputes, and insurance serves as a safety net, ensuring that you're protected against unforeseen circumstances. - read more

Common Real Estate Risks and How to Mitigate Them with Insurance

In the vibrant world of real estate, understanding and managing risks is crucial for success. Real estate agents face a variety of risks that can impact their reputation, financial stability, and client relationships. Navigating these risks effectively is essential for maintaining a thriving business and ensuring client satisfaction. - read more

Understanding Income Protection Insurance for Real Estate Professionals

Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It ensures a portion of your income continues to be paid during times when you cannot earn. This type of insurance acts as a safety net, offering peace of mind by securing your financial stability during challenging times. - read more

Top 5 Risk Management Strategies Every Real Estate Agent Should Know

In the ever-changing world of real estate, understanding and managing risks are crucial tasks for any real estate agent. From fluctuating market conditions to regulatory shifts, several elements can affect the value and profitability of property investments. Effective risk management practices are essential for protecting assets and ensuring long-term success in this dynamic industry. - read more

Knowledgebase

Trauma Insurance:
An insurance that pays a lump-sum amount on the diagnosis of one of several critical illnesses or events

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.