The corporate regulator has confirmed insurers’ management of disaster claims is a key focus after last month’s Victorian bushfires and Queensland floods following ex-Cyclone Koji.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission says the incidents underscore “the pressures insurers face during concurrent and severe events that can lead to poor consumer outcomes including delays, errors and poor communications.

“ASIC has commenced court proceedings concerning serious claim handling failure and will continue to hold the sector to account.

“The volumes and costs from disasters highlight challenges insurers face, particularly with claims handling.”

The regulator’s focus areas this year also include the financial services sector’s cyber resilience; artificial intelligence’s impact on consumer outcomes; and superannuation trustees’ claims handling.

“ASIC is tracking major shifts across Australia’s financial system as pressures on consumers, markets and businesses intensify.

“Highlighting the key issues for 2026 helps direct attention to where risks are most likely to emerge and underscores where ASIC is focused to safeguard trust, integrity and confidence in Australia’s financial system.”