Sat, 28th Mar 2026

In this week's Financial Services Online podcast, Paige Estritori discusses key issues impacting Australia's insurance sector. Topics include premium affordability, influenced by inflation, climate-related losses, and regulatory demands, with home-based businesses particularly affected. The mounting concern of cybersecurity risks in the digital age is also highlighted, with encouraging business owners to stay informed and prioritize improving cyberdefenses. To combat these challenges, insurers are leaning on advanced tech, like AI for fraud detection, albeit with increasing AI-related fraud. A talent shortage in the sector is raising costs, a problem being addressed via AI-driven analytics and adjusted pricing. Positively, AUSactive and Marsh have partnered to offer extensive, inexpensive coverage for fitness professionals. Moreover, AI is transforming allied health services, including AI-powered scribes to reduce administrative burdens and biofeedback systems for rehabilitation, despite the balance required with data security and regulation compliance.