Insurance for Strata :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Surge in Mental Health Claims Reshapes Australia's Insurance Landscape

Understanding the Impact of Rising Mental Health Claims on Insurance Policies

Surge in Mental Health Claims Reshapes Australia's Insurance Landscape?w=400

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.

Australia's insurance industry is experiencing a significant shift as mental health conditions have become the leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims.
Recent data from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) indicates that mental health issues now account for nearly one-third of all TPD claims, marking a substantial change in the industry's claim patterns.

In 2024, life insurers disbursed over $2.2 billion in retail claims related to mental health, a figure that has nearly doubled compared to five years prior. Income protection claims linked to mental health also remain substantial, with $887 million paid out in 2024 alone. This trend underscores the growing prevalence of mental health issues and their profound impact on individuals' ability to work and maintain financial stability.

Particularly concerning is the marked increase in claims among younger Australians. The rate of TPD claims for mental health among individuals in their 30s has risen by more than 700% over the past decade. This surge highlights the urgent need for targeted mental health support and intervention strategies to address the unique challenges faced by this demographic.

Christine Cupitt, CEO of CALI, emphasised the broader implications of this trend, stating, "Australia is reaching a tipping point. The entire safety net, not just life insurance, is under pressure." The escalating number of Australians leaving the workforce permanently due to mental health conditions places a significant strain on the nation's financial safety net and underscores the necessity for comprehensive mental health initiatives.

For policyholders, this evolving landscape necessitates a thorough review of existing insurance coverage. Ensuring that policies adequately address mental health conditions is crucial. Additionally, understanding the terms and conditions related to mental health claims can help individuals make informed decisions about their insurance needs.

In response to the rising claims, insurers are reevaluating their coverage options and claim processes. Some are implementing measures to expedite claim handling and provide more robust support for mental health-related claims. These efforts aim to balance the financial sustainability of insurance providers with the critical need to support policyholders facing mental health challenges.

As mental health continues to play a pivotal role in the insurance sector, both insurers and policyholders must adapt to this changing environment. Proactive engagement, comprehensive coverage, and supportive claim processes are essential to address the growing impact of mental health conditions on Australia's workforce and financial systems.

Published:Tuesday, 2nd Dec 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

No news available under the category: insurance.


Strata Insurance Articles

Key Factors That Affect Your Strata Insurance Premiums
Key Factors That Affect Your Strata Insurance Premiums
Strata insurance is a specialized form of coverage tailored for property owners living in multi-unit complexes. Understanding its intricacies can be crucial for ensuring that all aspects of shared ownership and communal property responsibilities are adequately protected. - read more
Understanding Strata Insurance: A Guide for Apartment Owners
Understanding Strata Insurance: A Guide for Apartment Owners
Strata insurance is a specific type of insurance policy designed to cover common property and areas shared by owners within a strata-titled development, such as an apartment complex. This unique insurance is crucial for apartment owners as it ensures financial protection against unexpected events affecting the building structure and common facilities. It typically covers parts of the property like the building’s exterior, lobbies, and gardens. - read more
When to Involve a Broker: Navigating Insurance Claims in Strata Properties
When to Involve a Broker: Navigating Insurance Claims in Strata Properties
If you own a strata property, understanding your insurance is crucial. Strata insurance is a specific type of cover that protects shared and common property under a strata title or body corporate arrangement. This can include everything from the building itself to shared driveways, gardens, pools, or car parks. - read more
Decoding Strata Insurance: Key Terms and Perspectives
Decoding Strata Insurance: Key Terms and Perspectives
Strata insurance is a vital component of property ownership in Australia, particularly for those involved in apartment living or owning units within a shared building. It provides financial protection against various risks, ensuring that common areas, building structures, and shared amenities are covered in the event of damage or loss. This type of insurance is not just a safeguard for individual owners but a legal necessity, mandated by Australian law. - read more
Your free quote comparison starts here!
First Name:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Liability Insurance:
A type of insurance that provides protection against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people and/or property.