Landmark Genetic Test Protection Gains Massive Support

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.

The federal government’s recent move to prohibit the usage of genetic test outcomes in life insurance underwriting has garnered substantial endorsement from various sectors.

Prominent support has come from the Council of Australian Life Insurers alongside professionals from the medical and legal fields.

Michelle James, the national president of the Australian Lawyers Alliance, applauded the ban announced by Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones, saying it represents “great news” for consumers.

Historically, the life insurance sector regulated itself through a moratorium started in 2019, which addressed concerns that individuals might avoid genetic testing due to fear that unfavorable results could impact their ability to secure affordable life insurance.

This moratorium was indefinitely extended under revisions to the industry’s code of practice in July of last year. However, it stopped short of a complete prohibition. For example, the moratorium allowed insurers to use genetic test results if an individual's total lump sum death coverage exceeded $500,000.

According to Ms. James, “The life insurance industry’s partial, self-regulated moratorium on using genetic results has not sufficiently protected consumers. Hence, legislating to prohibit insurers from using genetic test results in life underwriting is essential.” She emphasized that this development ensures individuals can make choices about genetic testing without worrying about insurance repercussions.

Steve Robson, president of the Australian Medical Association, underscored the significant positive impact of this policy change on both consumers and the health system. He stated, “We know that the fear of being denied insurance coverage has been a major deterrent for Australians who might benefit from genetic testing.”

The decision for a legislative ban followed a Treasury consultation earlier this year, wherein three potential strategies were suggested: maintaining the status quo, enforcing a complete or partial ban, or instituting financial thresholds for insurance companies regarding the use of genetic test results.

Christine Cupitt, CEO of the Council of Australian Life Insurers, commented on the consultations, expressing the group's consistent stance on the necessity for stringent regulations to prevent anyone from avoiding genetic tests out of fear. “We have long been clear about the need for strict regulation to ensure no one is deterred from taking a genetic test to proactively manage their health,” she said.

Minister Jones' announcement of this landmark prohibition signals a significant turning point in ensuring that Australians can pursue genetic testing crucial for their health without the looming threat of insurance discrimination based on their genetic information.

Published:Tuesday, 17th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

TAL's Health Sense Plus Now Covers Income Protection Policies

11 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In a strategic move to make life insurance more relevant to younger Australians, TAL has expanded its Health Sense Plus program to encompass income protection policies. This initiative allows advisers to offer clients enhanced value through a straightforward preventative health engagement. - read more

AFCA's Ruling: Home-Based Waxing Salon Deemed a Business

11 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) recently ruled that a home-based waxing salon constitutes a business, not merely a hobby. This decision has significant implications for beauticians managing home-based operations, particularly concerning insurance disclosures and compliance. - read more

Insurers Push for Overhaul of Civil Liability Laws Amid Rising Premiums

11 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently called for comprehensive reforms to state and territory civil liability laws, citing significant increases in public liability insurance premiums. This development is particularly relevant for beauticians and small business owners in the beauty industry, who are experiencing escalating insurance costs. - read more

Cosmetic Injectables Industry Booms Amid Safety Concerns

11 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The cosmetic injectables industry in Australia has experienced significant growth, with the market valued at $4.1 billion in 2023 and projected to grow by 19.3% annually until 2030. This surge reflects increasing consumer demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Business Insurance Articles

The Impact of Environmental Liability on Australian Business Operations

In today's ever-evolving business landscape, the significance of environmental sustainability and legal accountability is increasingly paramount. Australian enterprises, in particular, are encountering a growing need to understand and manage environmental liability. This reality not only influences corporate image but also carries substantial financial and legal ramifications. - read more

The Cost of Being Uninsured: Why Every Australian Small Business Needs Liability Coverage

Welcome to the complex world of running a small business in Australia where navigating through liability risks is as crucial as managing daily operations. This article is crafted to illuminate why every Australian small business needs liability coverage — a shield to protect against potential financial catastrophes. - read more

How to Lower Public Liability Insurance Premiums Without Sacrificing Coverage

In the ever-evolving landscape of Australian commerce, business insurance stands as a crucial bulwark, safeguarding enterprises against unforeseen financial perils. Recognizing this, our in-depth exploration begins with an overview of the monumental role business insurance plays for Australian companies, both large and small. It's a cornerstone for risk management, providing business owners with peace of mind as they navigate the intricacies of their industries. - read more

Understanding Liability Insurance: A Must-Read for Australian Small Business Owners

Liability insurance is a form of insurance designed to offer protection against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people or property. It covers legal costs and any payouts for which the insured party would be responsible if found legally liable. Intended to protect against claims resulting from injuries and damage to other people or property, liability insurance is critical for small businesses as it shields them from potentially crippling legal expenses. - read more

Start Here !

Knowledgebase

Loss Ratio:
The ratio of claims paid by an insurer to the premiums earned, used as a measure of profitability.

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.