Each week, get a concise, trustworthy wrap of the biggest strata and property stories across Australia. We scan rule changes, tribunal decisions, insurance trends, construction and defect updates, and real-world case studies to keep committees, managers and owners informed. Expect plain-English summaries, key takeaways, and practical context so you can navigate obligations with confidence and stay ahead of emerging risks. A steady, no-fuss briefing designed for Australians living in or managing strata communities.
This Week:
Weekly wrap for Sunday, 8 March 2026. Storm and bushfire losses continue to pressure insurers, with APRA data showing a tough quarter and higher catastrophe estimates. ASIC sues over ‘silent removal of online discounts, reminding strata owners to confirm pricing after mid‑term changes. The $880m Resilient Homes Program winds down, underscoring the value of documented flood mitigation for insurability. Termite swarms rise with wet weather; most policies exclude termite damage, so proactive maintenance and records are essential. Visit strata-cover.com.au for guidance and comparisons.
EPISODE 1387 | Strata Cover Australia Weekly News | Sun, 8th Mar 2026
11 Mar 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Hello and welcome to Strata Cover Australia Weekly News, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday, 8 March 2026.
First up, storm season is still biting. Fresh figures show insurers December‑quarter results were hit hard by hail, with household insurance posting a billion‑dollar underwriting loss and profits slipping, according to the regulator APRA, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. Separate catastrophe estimates now put Victorias January bushfires at about $786 million, and last springs hail losses are still being revised higher. For strata committees, expect pricing and excesses to keep moving by postcode; review building valuations, catastrophe sub‑limits and deductibles, and start renewal talks early to compare options.
Next up, the corporate watchdog ASIC — thats the Australian Securities and Investments Commission — has launched court action over the ‘silent removal of online discounts after customers made mid‑policy changes. Tens of thousands were affected, and the insurer says it has compensated impacted customers. The lesson for strata policies is simple: when you update details mid‑term, ask your broker or insurer to confirm all discounts and fees in writing, and keep a clean paper trail on approvals and invoices.
Meanwhile in flood‑prone regions, the $880 million Resilient Homes Program is winding up this month. Buy‑backs and some retrofits have reduced exposure for many households, but gaps remain and communities still face rebuild and relocation challenges. If your building sits near waterways or flood plains, line up mitigation — think drainage, pump capacity, debris management and access — and document it. Clear evidence of resilience work can support insurability and smoother comparisons at renewal.
And a timely maintenance reminder: termite swarms have spiked with recent rain and humidity. Most property policies dont cover termite damage because its considered preventable maintenance, and that can catch strata owners out where structural timber or balconies are affected. Schedule regular inspections, keep vents clear, fix leaks quickly and record works — it protects the building and avoids nasty surprises at claim time.
Thats the wrap. For plain‑English guides and to compare strata insurance tailored to your building, head to strata-cover.com.au. Im Paige Estritori — thanks for listening, and Ill see you next week.
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.
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Knowledgebase
Incontestability Clause: A provision in a life insurance policy that prevents the insurer from voiding coverage due to a misstatement by the insured after a certain period.
