Will liability insurance premiums rise for WA private schools?

Premiums could face upward pressure if underwriters perceive higher frequency or severity risk and if legal costs trend higher. Strong safeguarding audits, better record‑keeping, and faster incident escalation can mitigate price moves. Expect stricter questions and possible higher deductibles, even where headline premium increases are limited.

What child safety policy changes are most likely in 2026?

Likely changes include tighter one‑to‑one supervision rules, strict digital contact protocols, more frequent training, and stronger oversight of contractors and volunteers. Schools may adopt independent safeguarding audits, improve incident intake systems, and publish training completion data to reassure parents, regulators, and insurers after the Naomi Craig case.

How does the Naomi Craig case affect listed insurers?

It can sharpen focus on liability exposure to schools, driving selective underwriting, more conditions precedent, and attention to sub‑limits. Investors should watch disclosures on abuse‑related provisions, retentions, and reinsurance. Commentary on risk selection and pricing will indicate whether broader portfolio adjustments follow heightened scrutiny from high‑profile cases.

What should parents and boards ask now?

Ask for current WWCC compliance data, training completion rates, and details on incident reporting timelines. Review updates to codes of conduct, chaperone rules, and digital contact policies. Confirm independent audit plans and how findings will be closed. Transparent reporting reduces uncertainty and supports insurance renewals at sustainable terms.

Law and Government

January 08: Naomi Craig Case Triggers WA School Liability Review

ByHuzaifa Zahoor January 8, 2026January 8, 2026

The Naomi Craig case is set to pressure WA private schools to tighten child safety policy and reassess liability insurance risk. Media scrutiny and legal exposure often drive underwriters to review pricing and terms, which can lift compliance costs. For investors, the focus is on the education ecosystem and insurers with liability exposure in Australia. We map likely policy shifts, potential premium pressure, and budget impacts, and highlight practical signals to track in the months ahead across Western Australia and nationally.