Has the insurance industry become too risk-averse when it comes to public liability coverage for adventure tourism operators? If the recent experience of Australian businesses is anything to go by, it looks like it.
Take the case of Huon River Jet Boats, which ABC News reported couldn’t find a willing public liability insurance provider even after the company’s insurance broker reached out to 20 underwriters. And no insurance means no operations.
Also failing to secure coverage is Kalbarri Quadbike Safaris, which has now ceased to operate. A couple of similar businesses have been cited as finding themselves caught in a bind as well.
“The state government is trying to promote ‘Adventure Awaits’ – well, there won’t be any adventure left if the state or federal governments don’t step in and assist,” the publication quoted Dunsborough-based jet boating business owner Peter Kalbfell as saying.
The plea now is for Australia to follow in the footsteps of neighbour New Zealand, which has a no-fault accidental injury compensation scheme administered by the Accident Compensation Corporation.
