CALI supports ban on genetic data in insurance

The 5-year review will allow the law to adapt to genetic testing.

The Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to ban the use of genetic test results in insurance underwriting. 

The industry supports the new regulations, which aim to give Australians confidence in accessing genetic information to better manage their health.

The announcement follows over a year of collaboration between Australia’s life insurers, the Federal Government, and other stakeholders. 

CALI CEO Christine Cupitt, who joined Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones for the announcement in Canberra, emphasised the industry's commitment to improving health outcomes for Australians.

“We’ve long been clear about the need for strict regulation to ensure that no one is deterred from taking a genetic test to proactively manage their health,” Cupitt said.

The inclusion of a five-year review was also well-received by CALI, as it will allow the law to adapt to the evolving genetic testing landscape. 

All 20 CALI members recognize the importance of genetic testing in providing peace of mind and reducing health risks. 

Australia’s life insurers have never required genetic testing for underwriting purposes, with CALI emphasising that any suggestion to the contrary is incorrect. 

“It has never been our intention to deter people from taking genetic tests that give them more information about their overall health,” Cupitt said.