The premiums you pay for your car insurance can depend on a range of factors, including your age, vehicle type, location and driving history. Typically the older you get, the less you pay in premiums, as younger drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in an accident and make a claim. For example, according to the Transport and Accident Commission of Victoria, in their first year of driving, young drivers in the state are almost four times more likely to be involved in a fatal or serious injury crash than more experienced drivers.
However, car insurance can become more expensive for those over the age of 60 as people in this age group are statistically more prone to suffering from health problems that could affect driving ability, such as impaired hearing and vision, slower reaction times and sudden heart or brain issues. This means insurance companies may spend more on claims for older drivers, and thus charge higher premiums as a result.
While price is an important factor in selecting a car insurance policy, it isn’t usually wise to choose a policy simply because it offers the cheapest annual premium. It can be a good idea to read the product disclosure statement (PDS) of any insurance product you are considering to understand the cover on offer and whether it will meet your needs.
Car insurance policies for seniors on Canstar’s database
Each state and territory in Australia differs slightly when it comes to car insurance offerings. For this reason, we have put together a list of some of the top-rated car insurance policies on Canstar’s database for each state and territory (sorted alphabetically) to help you find a policy that may suit your needs as a senior driver.
Australian Capital Territory
The comparison table below displays some of the policies currently available on Canstar’s database for 60+ year old driver seeking cover in the Australian Capital Territory without cover for an extra driver under 25. Results are sorted by Star Rating (highest to lowest) followed by provider name (alphabetical) and features links direct to the providers’ websites. Use Canstar’s car insurance comparison selector to view a wider range of policies.
New South Wales
The comparison table below displays some of the policies currently available on Canstar’s database for 60+ year old driver seeking cover in New South Wales without cover for an extra driver under 25. Results are sorted by Star Rating (highest to lowest) followed by provider name (alphabetical) and features links direct to the providers’ websites. Use Canstar’s car insurance comparison selector to view a wider range of policies.
Queensland
The comparison table below displays some of the policies currently available on Canstar’s database for 60+ year old driver seeking cover in Queensland without cover for an extra driver under 25. Results are sorted by Star Rating (highest to lowest) followed by provider name (alphabetical) and features links direct to the providers’ websites. Use Canstar’s car insurance comparison selector to view a wider range of policies.
South Australia
The comparison table below displays some of the policies currently available on Canstar’s database for 60+ year old driver seeking cover in South Australia without cover for an extra driver under 25. Results are sorted by Star Rating (highest to lowest) followed by provider name (alphabetical) and features links direct to the providers’ websites. Use Canstar’s car insurance comparison selector to view a wider range of policies.
Tasmania
The comparison table below displays some of the policies currently available on Canstar’s database for 60+ year old driver seeking cover in Tasmania without cover for an extra driver under 25. Results are sorted by Star Rating (highest to lowest) followed by provider name (alphabetical) and features links direct to the providers’ websites. Use Canstar’s car insurance comparison selector to view a wider range of policies.
Victoria
The comparison table below displays some of the policies currently available on Canstar’s database for 60+ year old driver seeking cover in Victoria without cover for an extra driver under 25. Results are sorted by Star Rating (highest to lowest) followed by provider name (alphabetical) and features links direct to the providers’ websites. Use Canstar’s car insurance comparison selector to view a wider range of policies.
Western Australia
The comparison table below displays some of the policies currently available on Canstar’s database for 60+ year old driver seeking cover in Western Australia without cover for an extra driver under 25. Results are sorted by Star Rating (highest to lowest) followed by provider name (alphabetical) and features links direct to the providers’ websites. Use Canstar’s car insurance comparison selector to view a wider range of policies.
Seniors car insurance policies
While all car insurers offer cover for senior drivers, there are some providers that offer policies designed specifically for those over 50. Some of these include:
What are the state laws for senior drivers?
There are a number of licensing restrictions placed on seniors drivers in Australia that vary depending on where you live. While correct at the time of writing, these restrictions are subject to change. It may be a good idea to check your state or territory transport department website to confirm.
ACT
Drivers aged 75 and older in the ACT are required to provide an annual medical report from their doctor that confirms if they are still medically fit to drive.
New South Wales
In New South Wales, people aged between 75 and 84 need to complete a medical assessment with their doctor every year to keep their licence. An eyesight test also needs to be passed every year from the age of 75.
When drivers in NSW turn 85, they must also complete a practical driving assessment every two years, or drive under a restricted licence (e.g. only driving a certain distance from their home or at certain times of the day).
Northern Territory
In the Northern Territory, senior drivers are encouraged to regularly assess their own fitness to drive. They are legally required to disclose any relevant medical conditions to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles if they believe it may affect their driving ability.
Queensland
Drivers who turn 75 must carry a ‘Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver’, which is provided by their doctor and is valid for a year.
South Australia
Drivers aged 75 or older in South Australia are required to complete a medical self-assessment to drive form each year, which is sent to them in the mail. They will need to take this form to their health professional to complete and return to Service SA by the due date. Doctors may also recommend a practical driving test to confirm if a person is fit to drive.
Tasmania
In Tasmania drivers over the age of 65 are encouraged to regularly self-assess their ability to drive and need to renew their licence every five years. It is also their legal responsibility to disclose any changes in their medical fitness to drive to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles.
Victoria
In Victoria, drivers who are 75 or older need to renew their licence every three years and in many cases can self-assess their physical wellbeing.
Western Australia
In WA, once a driver turns 80 they are required to undergo a yearly medical check with their doctor before they can renew their driver licence. Those aged 85 or older may also be required to undergo an annual Practical Driving Assessment (PDA) before they can renew their licence, if a doctor recommends this test.
How to save on car insurance premiums
If you are looking to cut down on your car insurance costs as a senior driver, you may be able to reduce your premiums by:
-
Checking if you are eligible for any discounts
Some insurers may offer senior-specific reductions, multi-policy offers, or online discounts for customers.
-
Parking securely
You may be able to save on premiums if you park your car in a secure location, such as in a garage or carport, rather than on the street.
-
Completing a safe driving course
Some insurers may offer premium discounts if you complete an approved course.
-
Changing the type of car you drive
It is typically more expensive to insure cars that are of a higher value, considered a higher risk of theft, more expensive to repair or have less safety features. It may be possible you could receive a cheaper premium if you drive a car that factors in these considerations.
-
Checking whether a no-claims bonus applies
Some insurers offer no-claims bonuses that are designed to reward drivers who do not claim on their insurance. These typically increase each year you don’t make a claim, up to a maximum number of years.
-
Installing anti-theft devices
Some insurers may reward drivers with cheaper premiums if they install these devices, such as car alarms, immobilisers or tracking devices.
-
Increasing your car insurance excess
Increasing your excess could help bring your premiums down. However, doing so will mean you will have to pay more out of pocket if you have to make a claim on your car insurance.
Speak directly with your insurer about the discounts that may apply to you.
You may also be able to save on your car insurance by comparing a range of car insurance policies to find one that will suit your needs and budget. You can compare comprehensive car insurance policies on Canstar’s database.
Co-author: Ellie McLachlan
Cover image source: comzeal images (Shutterstock)
This article was reviewed by our Sub Editor Jacqueline Belesky and Senior Finance Journalist Shay Waraker before it was published as part of our fact-checking process.