On 5 August 2026, the ACCC issued a draft determination proposing not to authorise the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and its home insurer members to introduce:
- standard definitions for 'taking reasonable steps to maintain'
- standard definitions for 'wear and tear'
- related education campaigns.
This extends to both current and future members.
The ACCC considers there are several deficiencies in the proposed standard definitions and uncertainties relating to the education campaigns. These make it uncertain whether there is likely to be a benefit to the public.
While the scale is unclear, the ACCC considers that standardising these policy terms is likely to cause at least some public detriment due to a reduction in competition. The ACCC is also concerned the proposed conduct may impact other aspects of insurers' offerings that could otherwise be a basis for differentiation and competition between insurers.
The ACCC is not satisfied that the likely public benefit arising from this conduct would outweigh the likely public detriment.
The ACCC is now seeking submissions in response to the draft determination by Thursday, 20 August 2026, before making its final decision.
Further details about the application and how to make a submission are available on the ACCC's public register.
