The Albanese government is set to introduce a new law prohibiting life insurers from using adverse genetic test results in their underwriting processes.
The move aims to protect Australians from potential discrimination based on their genetic information when applying for life insurance.
The government said the decision follows concerns that individuals may avoid taking genetic tests due to fears that unfavourable results could affect their ability to secure life insurance.
Genetic testing is widely used to identify hereditary conditions and assess the risk of diseases such as cancer, offering important preventative and treatment benefits.
Under the new rules, Australians will no longer need to disclose unfavourable predictive genetic test results when applying for life insurance, although they may still choose to reveal favourable results.
This policy change comes after a public consultation earlier this year, which saw over 1,000 submissions, with 97% supporting a complete ban on the use of such results by insurers.
The government will conduct a review of the ban every five years to ensure it remains effective and adaptable to future developments in genetic testing technology.
Stephen Jones (pictured, middle), assistant treasurer and minister for Financial Services, emphasised that the ban is intended to give Australians the confidence to undergo genetic testing without fearing negative consequences for their financial security.
“I have met with countless people affected by this issue and thank them for sharing their stories and helping to drive this important change,” he added.
The government’s decision builds on its ongoing commitment to genomic research, including investments totalling $66 million in this area, along with $5.5 million for newborn screening programs. The ban aims to align with these efforts, ensuring that individuals are not penalised for accessing genetic testing that could improve their health outcomes.
By prohibiting life insurers from using genetic test results, Australia joins a small group of countries taking steps to address genetic discrimination.
The new policy is expected to enhance public trust in genetic testing, encouraging more people to take advantage of advancements in genomic medicine.
This regulatory shift reflects Australia’s role in setting a global precedent for the integration of genetic technology into healthcare without compromising consumer protections.
The Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) expressed its support for the new regulation.
CEO Christine Cupitt welcomed the move and noted that the sector had already adopted voluntary measures in 2019 to limit the use of genetic test results.
“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,” she said.
She also stressed the importance of the planned five-year review of the legislation, ensuring that the laws evolve with the rapid advancements in genetic testing and genomics.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has also endorsed the move.
Professor Steve Robson, AMA president, noted that fears about losing insurance coverage have been a significant deterrent for individuals who might benefit from genetic testing.
Monash University’s Dr Jane Tiller, who specialises in legal and social aspects of genomic health, also praised the policy, highlighting its significance for the future of genomic medicine and preventive health.
The life insurance sector, government, and healthcare advocates will continue working together to monitor the long-term effects of the policy.
