Life insurers will no longer ask questions about sexual preferences and practices during underwriting assessments, under changes to the industry’s code of practice.

Previously, insurers could ask such questions to determine the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV.

Now, in determining cover, insurers will treat HIV/AIDS like any other medical condition when customers disclose they are living with the illness.

The Council of Australian Life Insurers says the code changes formalise the industry’s support of people living with HIV, and many insurers have already stopped asking about sexual practices.

“These amendments reflect the modern society we live in and a deep commitment by our members to fairness,” CALI CEO Christine Cupitt said. “Life insurers recognise the significant advances in medical science that are transforming the lives of people living with HIV and AIDS.”

The peak body took over governance of the code from the Financial Services Council in 2023. 

CALI says it will begin a code review later this year. The current code began in July 2023, introducing more than 50 new consumer protection measures including a financial penalty of up to $100,000 for significant breaches.

See the updated code here.