According to a report by Marsh, a leading insurance broker, the first half of 2025 saw average premium reductions ranging from 5% to 15% across various insurance lines. Specifically, contract works insurance experienced an average decrease of 5%, while design and construction professional indemnity premiums fell by approximately 10%. This shift marks a significant departure from the upward trajectory observed in previous years, where insurers had been increasing premiums and tightening conditions in response to loss experiences and capacity constraints.
The softening of the market is primarily driven by an influx of new entrants and increased capacity since 2024, intensifying competition and providing clients with a broader selection of insurers. For instance, construction liability insurers have doubled their available primary capacity from $25 million to $50 million in many cases. To retain clients and avoid the need for remarketing at renewal, incumbent insurers are offering discounts and long-term agreements with built-in concessions.
Despite the reduction in premiums, insurers are maintaining rigorous underwriting standards. Risk engineers are being deployed more frequently to assess complex or high-value projects, ensuring accurate pricing and thorough risk evaluation. This approach underscores the importance of robust risk management practices among tradies to secure favourable insurance terms.
For tradies, this evolving landscape presents an opportunity to reassess their insurance needs and explore more cost-effective coverage options. Engaging with insurance brokers to compare policies and negotiate terms can lead to significant savings and enhanced protection tailored to specific trade risks.
In summary, the current competitive dynamics within the Australian construction insurance market are resulting in more affordable premiums for tradies. By staying informed and proactive, tradespeople can leverage these developments to secure optimal insurance coverage that safeguards their businesses and livelihoods.
