Minister for Revenue & Assistant Treasurer, Senator Helen Coonan, announced plans today to meet with the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) next week to discuss public concerns about the increasing cost of insurance for community and sporting events.
Senator Coonan said the issue was one of the first raised with her since being appointed to the Howard Ministry.
"The impact of increasing premiums for public liability coverage, in some cases rises of up to 600% for some events, is placing an enormous strain on local community groups," Senator Coonan said.
"Every dollar counts for small community groups and making sure that money is being effectively invested in the planning and running of a local event, such as sporting carnivals, fete's and parades is crucial."
"At the meeting I want to discuss any options Industry and Government can take in a constructive way to avoid putting these events, that so often define the spirit of a local community, in jeopardy."
Senator Coonan said being a good corporate citizen means looking at more than just the bottom line.
Calls for discussions on the cost of public liability insurance have been supported by the CEO of St John's Ambulance, Mr Chris Thorpe, whose volunteer activities have been effected by the premium hikes.
"St John's Ambulance welcomes the announcement by Senator Coonan that the matter would be discussed with the Insurance Council as a matter of priority. It's a positive sign to see such as vital local issue being given priority," Mr Thorpe said.