The starting point for any comparison is working out what you need from an insurance policy. Think about whether you could afford to replace your car if it was stolen or a total loss after an accident. And, if you caused the accident, could you cover the cost of repairing the other vehicle, or any property you damaged? Your answers could help you decide which type of cover makes sense for your situation, whether it’s Comprehensive car insurance, Third Party Fire & Theft or Third Party Property Only car insurance.
Online comparison tools can provide a quick overview of policies and prices. Just remember that, according to moneysmart.gov.au, not all comparison sites feature all available options, so it’s worth doing some extra research directly with insurers too.10
Once you’ve narrowed down your options and have two or three policies in mind, here are a few features you can look to compare:10
- Premiums and excess. Compare like-for-like cover levels and check if you can adjust your excess to lower your premium.
- Payment options. See if you can pay monthly at no extra cost, or if there’s a discount for paying annually.
- Exclusions. Look at what’s not covered, such as damage caused by vandalism or certain weather events.
- Roadside assistance. See if it’s included, and when you’re looking at comprehensive car insurance, compare if it’s standard or costs extra.
- After-accident support. What help is covered? Are things such as towing and emergency accommodation and transport included?
Before you commit, it’s worth checking out the policy’s Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). That’s where you’ll find the full details of what’s included and any exclusions or limits. It might seem like a bit of information to wade through, but it’s one way to make sure a policy suits your needs.








