Genetic Tests, Family History and Life Insurance in Australia: What You Need to Know

General advice only – this article does not take into account your personal circumstances. For advice tailored to you, please speak with a licensed financial adviser.

Understanding the Link Between Genetics and Life Insurance

Many Australians are curious about genetic testing – whether for health insights, family planning, or medical research. But a common concern is: “If I take a genetic test, will it affect my ability to get life insurance?”

Similarly, people often ask if they need to disclose family history of conditions such as cancer, heart disease, or Huntington’s disease when applying for cover.

The answer depends on the type of insurance, your medical history, and current industry rules.

The Current Rules in Australia

• Disclosure is required: When applying for life insurance, you must answer all questions truthfully, including those about your family medical history. This might include details about your parents’ or siblings’ health, especially if they developed a condition at a young age.

• Genetic test results: In Australia, there is currently a moratorium on using most genetic test results in life insurance applications (in place since 2019 and extended until 2024, with review ongoing).

  • Insurers generally cannot use the results of a genetic test to decline or heavily load your policy, up to certain cover limits.

  • However, you must still disclose any information you already know that is relevant to your health or family history.

• Types of cover affected: The rules apply to life insurance, TPD, income protection, and trauma insurance. They do not affect health insurance or general insurance.

Family History and Insurance Decisions

If you have a family history of a serious illness, insurers may treat your application differently. For example:

• A parent or sibling with early-onset heart disease or cancer may lead to extra medical checks.

• Some insurers may apply a loading (higher premium) or exclusions on certain conditions.

• In other cases, especially if your own health is strong and screening is clear, you may still be able to obtain standard cover.

Should You Disclose Genetic Test Results?

Yes – if an insurer asks a question that covers genetic testing, you must answer truthfully. However:

• Under the moratorium, most results cannot be used against you for policies under certain limits (e.g. $500,000 for life insurance).

• If you choose not to disclose, your policy may later be voided for non-disclosure.

The best approach is transparency — but work with an adviser who understands which insurers are more flexible in handling family history and genetic information.

Practical Tips if You’re Considering Cover

1. Apply before testing: If you’re thinking of taking a genetic test but haven’t yet, you may wish to consider applying for cover beforehand.

2. Get professional advice: A specialist adviser (like Covermate Life) can guide you to insurers with more flexible underwriting.

3. Know your rights: The moratorium is there to protect applicants — make sure you’re aware of the current limits and rules.

4. Update your policy as needed: If your family history changes (e.g. a relative diagnosed after your policy starts), it usually doesn’t affect your existing cover.

How Covermate Life Can Help

At Covermate Life, we help Australians navigate complex issues like genetic testing and family history when applying for insurance. Every insurer has different rules, and our role is to find you the most suitable cover available.

Whether you’re applying for life insurance, income protection, trauma, or TPD cover, we can help you understand your options — so you can protect your family’s future with confidence.

Important Disclaimer

This information is general advice only. It does not consider your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making any decisions. For advice tailored to your situation, speak to a licensed financial adviser.