What is life insurance and how does it work in Australia?

Life insurance, also known as death cover or term life insurance, is a financial protection product that pays a lump sum amount of money to your nominated beneficiaries when you die. In Australia, life insurance policies are regulated by ASIC and APRA, ensuring consumer protection and fair practices. When you take out a policy, you pay regular premiums (monthly, quarterly, or annually) to maintain your cover. If you pass away while the policy is active, your beneficiaries receive the insured amount, which can help them maintain their lifestyle, pay off debts like mortgages, cover funeral costs, and meet ongoing expenses such as school fees and living costs. Most Australian life insurance policies also include terminal illness cover, which pays out if you're diagnosed with a terminal condition with a life expectancy typically of 12-24 months or less. The payout is tax-free when paid to spouses or financially dependent children, making it an effective estate planning tool for Australian families.