Federal Insurance Inquiry: What It Means for Automotive Small Businesses

Overview of the Parliamentary Inquiry

The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services has launched an inquiry into the provision, regulation and pricing of modern insurance products used by small businesses, not-for-profits and community organisations across Australia.

The inquiry acknowledges what many businesses already know firsthand - insurance costs are rising, and availability is shrinking, creating significant challenges for sectors such as automotive repair, sales and services.

Key Areas of Focus

Through its terms of reference, the Committee will examine:

1. Access to Fit-for-Purpose Insurance

• Availability of insurance products that meet today’s business needs
• Coverage areas including public liability, professional indemnity, cyber threats and business interruption

2. Affordability and Availability

• How rising premiums and tightening underwriting standards are affecting businesses
• Impacts across sectors, regions, and high-risk industries, including automotive
• Unique challenges for regional and remote businesses

The Committee is expected to release its findings later in 2026.

Have Your Say: Rising Insurance Costs in the Automotive Sector

Your Experience Matters

Escalating premiums and declining access to insurance products continue to place pressure on automotive small businesses in NSW and the ACT. With a federal inquiry underway, MTA NSW and MTA ACT are preparing a detailed submission to ensure industry-specific concerns are heard.

To do this effectively, we need insights directly from members. We want to understand:

• How your insurance costs have changed
• What insurance products you currently hold
• Whether insurers are reducing, limiting, or withdrawing coverage

How You Can Contribute

A short survey will soon be circulated to gather your feedback. We strongly encourage all members to participate. Your input is essential to shaping a strong and representative submission.

Support for Your Insurance Needs

As a reminder, MTA NSW, through its agreement with Scott & Broad, offers trusted business insurance services and tailored solutions for members.

Click here to learn more.