AFCA is looking to consider complaints about the use of genetic testing in life insurance underwriting under new legislative protections for consumers.<\/p>\n
The organisation is now seeking feedback on amendments to its rules (see below) that follow legislative changes banning life insurers from soliciting or using protected genetic information, including adverse genetic test results, when offering cover.<\/p>\n
The consultation runs until 6 June, with AFCA proposing updates to its jurisdictional rules to ensure it can consider complaints relating to the new protections.<\/p>\n
AFCA is proposing changes to Rule C.1.4(b) and (d) to allow it to hear complaints specifically relating to allegations of the solicitation or use of protected genetic information by life insurers, in breach of section 33H of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth), and in some cases section 46(3) of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth).<\/p>\n
Under current rules, AFCA must generally exclude complaints about underwriting or actuarial factors leading to offers of life insurance on non-standard terms, as well as decisions to refuse cover, subject to limited exceptions.<\/p>\n
…We encourage all stakeholders, particularly our life insurance members, to have their say…<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
\u201cThese proposed amendments will ensure we can consider complaints about the use of genetic testing in life insurance in line with the new protections for consumers,\u201d AFCA Executive General Manager Jurisdiction and Systemic Issues Michelle Kumarich<\/strong> said.<\/p>\n
\u201cEngaging with stakeholders through this consultation is essential to\u00a0ensuring\u00a0our rules continue to meet the needs of consumers and financial firms. We encourage all stakeholders, particularly our\u00a0life insurance members, to have their say during the consultation.\u201d<\/p>\n
Subject to consultation and regulatory approval, the amendments are expected to take effect from 8 October 2026.<\/p>\n