Bridging the Risk Preparedness Gap: Australian Insurers and Emerging Threats
Assessing the Industry's Readiness to Tackle AI and Cybersecurity Challenges
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Recent findings from PwC's Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are falling behind their global counterparts in risk preparedness, particularly concerning emerging threats such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cyber risks.
The survey indicates that local insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index compared to global peers, marking a four-year low.
Cyber threats continue to be the top risk for the industry, while technology-related concerns have risen to second place. Notably, AI has surged from eleventh to third position among key concerns within two years. Antonie Jagga, leader of PwC’s insurance operations in Australia, emphasized the rapid acceleration of these risks, stating that the preparedness gap is widening as Australian insurers struggle to keep pace.
Political risks have also escalated, moving up four places to become the fourth most pressing concern. This shift reflects increased government scrutiny over premium hikes and limited coverage in areas prone to natural disasters, as well as global geopolitical tensions affecting the industry.
To address these challenges, insurers are encouraged to leverage AI and data analytics for smarter pricing strategies, thereby improving affordability and aligning premiums more closely with actual risk exposures. Enhancing risk management frameworks and investing in cybersecurity measures are crucial steps for Australian insurers to bridge the preparedness gap and effectively manage the evolving risk landscape.
Published:Thursday, 5th Mar 2026 Source: Paige Estritori
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