NIBA welcomes NSW Governments’ decision to reform Emergency Services Levy

The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) welcomes the New South Wales government's recent announcement to reform the Emergency Services Levy (ESL). This progressive step aligns with NIBA's longstanding advocacy for a fair and sustainable emergency services funding model.

NIBA has been a vocal advocate for ESL reform, recognising that the current model disproportionately penalises responsible property owners who invest in insurance. The existing system places an undue burden on those who take proactive steps to protect their homes and businesses, undermining the principle of shared responsibility in community safety.

"The announcement to reform the Emergency Services Levy is a positive move towards creating a fairer and more equitable system for all. The current ESL model penalises responsible home and business owners who invest in insurance to protect their assets. NIBA has consistently highlighted the need to rectify this imbalance and create a system that incentivizes responsible risk management practices and increases insurance affordability." said NIBA CEO, Phil Kewin

“The current levy artificially inflates insurance premiums, further exacerbating existing inequalities and negatively impacting insurance affordability around the state. As insurance premiums increase due to the increased frequency and severity of natural disasters and historic losses, the review of the current model will provide welcome relief for millions of home and small business owners in NSW.”

NIBA commends the government's commitment to creating a funding model that is both equitable, and sustainable. The Association looks forward to working closely with the NSW government to ensure the new approach is not only sustainable but also fosters a fair distribution of the financial responsibility associated with emergency services.