Artificial intelligence is no longer just a trend. It is reshaping how professional services firms operate, from client relationships to back-office efficiency. While many teams have dabbled with chatbots or content tools, the real impact comes from having a clear plan.

Why AI Matters Now

• Rising adoption: 41% of professionals use public GenAI tools like ChatGPT, while 17% use industry-specific AI. Organisational adoption has doubled.
• Future focus: 95% of professionals believe GenAI will be central to their workflows within five years.
• Positive outlook: Over half feel AI will boost productivity and client solutions, even with accuracy challenges.
• Skills gap: Only one-third of firms provide GenAI training, giving a competitive edge to those that do.

Start With a Problem, Not a Product

The best AI projects start with identifying pain points, not chasing the latest app. Ask:

• Where is time being wasted?
• Which processes are broken or slow?
• What tasks are repetitive and low-value?

Manual data entry, repetitive emails, lengthy reports, or duplicated notes are often the best starting points.

Practical Use Cases

AI can deliver real value, for example:

• Sales & Client Services: Log meeting notes in CRMs, summarise client calls, enrich records with external data.
• Customer Support: Use chatbots for FAQs, summarise long email threads, draft faster replies.
• Marketing: Generate social content, analyse campaign performance, draft newsletters and blogs.
• Finance & Operations: Match invoices, flag errors, extract data from PDFs, standardise reporting.

The Bottom Line

AI is not just for tech giants. Professional services firms can use it now to cut busywork, streamline operations, and deliver smarter client solutions. You do not need an AI department to start, only a clear problem to solve and a smart place to begin.

General Advice Warning

This communication including any weblinks or attachments is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation or opinion, your personal or individual objectives, financial situation or needs have not been taken into account. This communication is not intended to be a constitute personal advice. We strongly recommend that you consider the suitability of this information, in respect of your own personal objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. This document is also not a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a policy wording, nor is it a summary of a particular product’s features or terms of any insurance product. If you are interested in discussing this information or acquiring an insurance product, you should contact your insurance adviser to obtain and carefully consider any relevant PDS or policy wording before deciding whether to purchase any insurance product.

The coordinated military strikes on Iran on 28 February 2026 and the retaliatory attacks that followed represent the most significant disruption to global trade and travel since the Red Sea crisis in late 2023. If your business involves international travel, imports, exports or supply chain logistics, here is what you need to know.

DFAT LEVEL 4: DO NOT TRAVEL

As at 1 March 2026, Australia’s Smartraveller has issued ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories for the UAE (including Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. Jordan is at Level 3.

This affects roughly 11% of all international travel departing Australia each year.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

All standard travel insurance policies exclude or severely limit cover for war and military actions, including state-sponsored cyber attacks. Travel to any country or region under a DFAT advisory, including transit, is not covered for trips commencing on or after 28 February 2026.

1. New policies and trips are not covered. Policies purchased or endorsed, and travel commenced, on or after 28 February 2026 will likely provide no cover for travel or transit to this region. We recommend talking with your insurance adviser before making bookings.
2. In-transit travellers may have limited cover. Those currently travelling who purchased their policy before 28 February may be covered for loss of deposits, cancellation, curtailment or personal safety evacuation. Conditions apply, including leaving the area within seven days and being required by authorities or airlines to make changes to flights or bookings. We recommend talking with your insurance adviser before making or changing bookings.
3. Do not cancel bookings yourself. Some airlines are offering refunds or suspending flights. Cancelling a booking before speaking to the airline may mean the cost is not claimable. We recommend talking with your insurance adviser before cancelling any bookings.

MARINE CARGO

War and strikes cover is already or likely to be cancelled – 7 day notice.

Most marine cargo policies include a War and Strikes clause. Over the weekend (28 Feb 2026), many Lloyd’s insurers issued cancellation notices for this cover, giving seven days’ notice. If your insurer has issued (or is about to issue) a notice of cancellation, you will need to act quickly. Limited cover may still be available at significantly higher premiums for cargo transiting the Gulf area, but this needs to be arranged through your insurance adviser.

SUPPLY CHAIN

Strait of Hormuz and Suez Canal both disrupted.

Both the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea/Suez Canal route are now effectively closed to commercial shipping. Around 150 tankers and 170 container ships are trapped or diverted. Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port, the ninth largest container port in the world and the primary hub for Australia–Middle East trade, has suspended operations after missile damage. Freight rates have already started climbing.

• Sectors most affected: fuel, consumer goods, automotive parts, chemicals, food and agriculture (including exports).
• Shipping costs: benchmark Middle East to Asia rates have nearly tripled since the start of 2026.
• Recommended action: consider the steps your business took during COVID and apply those lessons now. Review stock levels, alternative suppliers and lead times.

CYBER

State-sponsored cyber risk is elevated.

Iran has a documented history of state-sponsored cyber attacks. Most cyber insurance policies now exclude country-versus-country cyber operations as a war risk. However, coverage varies significantly between insurers. Some policies explicitly cover state-sponsored terrorism that falls outside the definition of war, while others are more flexible. Now is the time to review your cyber policy cover and wording with your insurance adviser.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NOW?

Review your travel, marine cargo, cyber and business interruption policies. Check whether your insurer has issued a notice of cancellation for war and strikes cover. If you have employees travelling through the Middle East, contact your insurer’s assistance line immediately. Do not cancel airline or accommodation bookings without speaking to your insurance adviser first to discuss your cover and your options.

Need to review your cover? Contact your insurance adviser to discuss your specific circumstances. The situation is changing rapidly and early action is important.

General Advice Warning

This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or insurance advice. Coverage depends on individual policy terms and conditions. Information is current as at 3 March 2026 and the situation is evolving rapidly.

This communication including any weblinks or attachments is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation or opinion, your personal or individual objectives, financial situation or needs have not been taken into account. This communication is not intended to be a constitute personal advice. We strongly recommend that you consider the suitability of this information, in respect of your own personal objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. This document is also not a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a policy wording, nor is it a summary of a particular product’s features or terms of any insurance product. If you are interested in discussing this information or acquiring an insurance product, you should contact your insurance adviser to obtain and carefully consider any relevant PDS or policy wording before deciding whether to purchase any insurance product.

Protecting your business from cyber threats is about more than firewalls and passwords. When an incident happens, how you respond can make all the difference. A cyber incident can disrupt your services, compromise sensitive data and expose you to ransom demands. Cyber criminals may threaten to release stolen data to force payment, sometimes targeting the individuals whose details they’ve taken. Having a clear plan and the right tools at hand will help reduce the damage. That’s where an Incident Response Go-Bag comes in. Think of it as your emergency kit – a combination of digital tools, devices and documentation that allow you to respond quickly and effectively.

Why You Need a Go-Bag

• Swift action: Immediate access to essential tools avoids wasted time in a crisis.
• Preparedness: Plans are never perfect, but a ready-to-go kit keeps your response structured.
• Collaboration: A cyber event isn’t just an IT issue. Leadership, insurers, regulators and advisers all need to be involved.

What to Include

For Businesses:

• Software: Remote desktop tools, cybersecurity software, password managers, backup and recovery programs.
• Hardware: Bootable USB drives with recovery utilities, diagnostic tools, and spare components.
• Connectivity: Power banks, chargers, mobile devices.
• Documentation: Emergency plans, key contacts, regulatory requirements – stored securely in both digital and physical form.
• Physical items: First aid kits, torches and basic safety gear for your IT environment.

For Individuals: 

• Connectivity: Phone, power bank, and backup charger.
• Security & repair: Password manager, recovery tools, emergency contacts and maps.
• Communication: A simple notepad and pen.

Golden Rules for Incident Response

• Don’t assume IT alone can handle the fallout – they’ll be busy fixing systems
• Don’t bypass your business continuity processes – scarce resources need leadership direction.
• Don’t assume recovery times for routine downtime apply to a cyberattack – these are different events.  
• Don’t underestimate data theft – encryption isn’t the only sign of an attack.
• Don’t delay contacting your insurance adviser and cyber insurer – some notifications must be made within 24 hours.
• Don’t risk sharing sensitive data over unsecured channels in the rush to respond.

Key Contacts to Have Ready

• Your business continuity and emergency team
• Key suppliers and partners
• Legal advisers
• Your insurance adviser and cyber insurer
• Relevant regulators

An Incident Response Go-Bag won’t stop a cyberattack, but it will give you the tools to respond quickly, protect your business and reassure your clients. For more guidance, see Cyber.gov.au Incident Response Resources. And as always, speak with your insurance adviser to make sure your cyber cover and response plan work hand in hand.

General Advice Warning

This communication including any weblinks or attachments is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation or opinion, your personal or individual objectives, financial situation or needs have not been taken into account. This communication is not intended to be a constitute personal advice. We strongly recommend that you consider the suitability of this information, in respect of your own personal objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. This document is also not a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a policy wording, nor is it a summary of a particular product’s features or terms of any insurance product. If you are interested in discussing this information or acquiring an insurance product, you should contact your insurance adviser to obtain and carefully consider any relevant PDS or policy wording before deciding whether to purchase any insurance product.

Customer injuries, extreme weather, fires or cyber-attacks can strike at any time. Preparation and managing the impact includes having the right mix of insurances for your business. Insurance can provide cyber experts to help get your systems up and running, pay overheads, such as wages or rent or engage lawyers to defend legal action. 

How Much Does Insurance Cover Cost for Your Business?

Insurance covers a wide range of accident and events, from fire, storm, car accidents, cyber attacks and loss of income.  The price is based on how much cover you want, your industry and prior accident or claims history. Knowing which insurers are the most competitive is key.

Enabling Growth and Opportunity

Insurance doesn’t just protect against loss, it also creates opportunity. Investors, lenders and partners look for well-structured insurance programs, making your business more attractive for partnerships, financing and expansion. When you know that risks are managed, you can focus on growth with confidence. Whether that means entering new markets, trialling innovative technologies or scaling operations, insurance provides the security that allows you to take calculated risks.

Insurance Advisers

Talk to your local insurance adviser about reviewing your financial risks, assets and goals, whether you’re a start-up and established business. They will be able to provide advice and recommend insurance covers tailored to your needs and budget.

Helping You and Your Business Succeed

Managing your key financial risks is important to ensure the financial stability and growth of your business. Talk to your local insurance adviser, they’ll provide advice about the best type and amount of insurance that matches your needs and budget. 

General Advice Warning

This communication including any weblinks or attachments is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation or opinion, your personal or individual objectives, financial situation or needs have not been taken into account. This communication is not intended to be a constitute personal advice. We strongly recommend that you consider the suitability of this information, in respect of your own personal objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. This document is also not a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a policy wording, nor is it a summary of a particular product’s features or terms of any insurance product. If you are interested in discussing this information or acquiring an insurance product, you should contact your insurance adviser to obtain and carefully consider any relevant PDS or policy wording before deciding whether to purchase any insurance product.

If you drive a modern car or are considering making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV), chances are you’ll be relying on a lithium-ion battery. These batteries have become the preferred choice for EVs worldwide, but they’re also making their way into hybrids and even some conventional cars as starter batteries. While they bring plenty of benefits, there are also a few important things to be aware of.

Why lithium batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries are much lighter and more efficient than traditional lead-acid batteries. This means better performance, longer life, and quicker charging. For EVs, they’re the reason you can travel hundreds of kilometres on a single charge. For conventional cars, they’re being used as replacements for lead-acid starter batteries, offering longer life and better resilience.

Safety and risks

While lithium batteries are generally safe, they can be sensitive to extreme heat, physical damage or poor charging conditions. Overheating, known as “thermal runaway”, can lead to fires, although this is rare when batteries are properly managed. This is why manufacturers design sophisticated battery management systems to keep temperatures and charging levels under control.

For drivers, the biggest takeaway is to follow manufacturer guidance. Avoid using unapproved charging equipment, don’t tamper with the battery, and make sure your car is serviced regularly by qualified technicians. In workplaces and public car parks, fire authorities are also raising awareness of having safe charging points and emergency procedures.

Environmental considerations

Lithium batteries are also part of the sustainability conversation. While they reduce emissions during driving, their production and disposal raise environmental questions. The industry is working on recycling programmes to recover valuable materials and cut waste, but the technology is still developing. For now, it’s worth knowing that end-of-life batteries need to be handled properly, not simply thrown away.

Everyday awareness

For most white-collar workers, the role lithium batteries play is less about tinkering and more about peace of mind. Some practical points to remember:

• Use the charging equipment recommended by your manufacturer.
• Don’t ignore warning lights on the dashboard, especially battery-related ones.
• Be mindful of charging in extremely hot conditions, such as direct summer sun.
• If you lease or buy a vehicle with a lithium battery, ask what warranty and servicing arrangements are in place.

Looking ahead

Lithium technology is improving rapidly, with new designs aimed at making batteries safer, longer lasting and easier to recycle. Solid-state batteries, for example, are already being tested and could be the next big leap forward. For drivers, the bottom line is that lithium batteries aren’t just a piece of technology under the bonnet, they’re at the heart of how your car performs, how safe it is, and how it fits into the broader sustainability picture.

General Advice Warning

This communication including any weblinks or attachments is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation or opinion, your personal or individual objectives, financial situation or needs have not been taken into account. This communication is not intended to be a constitute personal advice. We strongly recommend that you consider the suitability of this information, in respect of your own personal objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. This document is also not a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a policy wording, nor is it a summary of a particular product’s features or terms of any insurance product. If you are interested in discussing this information or acquiring an insurance product, you should contact your insurance adviser to obtain and carefully consider any relevant PDS or policy wording before deciding whether to purchase any insurance product.

The new year has brought a mix of regulatory changes and upcoming reforms that small businesses and sole traders should factor into their planning.

Privacy Compliance in the Spotlight

One of the more immediate developments is a new compliance sweep by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. For the first time, the regulator is actively checking whether businesses’ privacy policies meet legal requirements and are being followed in practice.

The initial focus is on organisations that collect personal information face to face, such as real estate agents gathering phone numbers at open inspections. Businesses found to be non-compliant risk penalties of up to $66,000.

Changes to Apprenticeship Incentives

Support for apprentices and their employers has also shifted. Payments for apprentices undertaking qualifications on the national priority list, including aged care and disability support, have been reduced from $5,000 to $2,500 across the two-year apprenticeship period.

Some sectors continue to receive higher levels of support under the Key Apprenticeship Program. Apprentices in areas such as clean energy, housing, and construction can still access up to $10,000 over two years.

Cash Still Counts at the Checkout

From 1 January, many fuel and grocery retailers are now required to accept cash for in-person purchases of $500 or less, provided the transaction occurs between 7am and 9pm. The change was introduced in response to concerns about the increasing shift towards cashless payments.

While businesses with annual turnover below $10 million are generally exempt, the exemption does not apply where a small business operates under the trademark of a larger retailer.

A Reminder on Superannuation Timing

Looking ahead to mid-year, employers should be preparing for the introduction of Payday Super from 1 July. Under the new rules, superannuation contributions will need to be paid on the same day as wages.

Business and government bodies are encouraging small businesses to begin planning early and consider gradual changes to payroll processes to avoid cashflow disruption. Alongside this, the government has flagged “top-up” tax cuts and a scaling back of proposed changes to the tax treatment of superannuation earnings.

With several regulatory and financial changes in play, it’s a good time to review how these developments may affect your business. Speaking with an insurance adviser can also help ensure your cover remains appropriate as your obligations continue to evolve.

General Advice Warning

This communication including any weblinks or attachments is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation or opinion, your personal or individual objectives, financial situation or needs have not been taken into account. This communication is not intended to be a constitute personal advice. We strongly recommend that you consider the suitability of this information, in respect of your own personal objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. This document is also not a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a policy wording, nor is it a summary of a particular product’s features or terms of any insurance product. If you are interested in discussing this information or acquiring an insurance product, you should contact your insurance adviser to obtain and carefully consider any relevant PDS or policy wording before deciding whether to purchase any insurance product.

With electric powered transport more common, it’s a good time to check to see if your home or farm covers electric vehicles, including e-scooters, e-skateboards, and electric ATV-style vehicles.

 A recent review of policy documents shows that many insurers treat these popular electric devices differently, creating significant gaps in both property and liability protection.

Key Risks to Check Now:

1. Property Cover (Contents) - The Sub-Limit Trap

Many standard Home & Contents policies include cover for e-scooters, e-bikes, and similar electrically powered personal transport devices under the 'Contents' section. However, this coverage is almost always subject to a low amount (sub-limit) and on the premises only, not in use on roads or footpaths.

Action Required: check your policy to see if a sub-limit applies. For many policies, coverage for e-scooters is capped at as little as $5,000 in total. If your device is worth more, you may need to talk to your insurance adviser.

2. Legal Liability – Personal Injury to members of the Public is a common Exclusion

The most critical potential gap is lack of legal liability cover.

While most Home & Contents policies provide liability cover up to $20 million for personal injury to Third Parties or damage to their property, cover for motor vehicles, including e-scooters and e-skateboards is often excluded.

Inconsistent Rules: Some insurers explicitly exclude all liability claims connected to the use of e-scooters/e-bikes, even if they are low-powered and unregistered. If you injure a pedestrian while riding, your policy may not cover the resulting legal cost or court awarded damages.

Farm Policies: Owners of farm policies or those operating electric ATV (e-ATV) vehicles should verify their coverage. These are usually classified as "Motor vehicles" and are typically excluded from liability and property cover unless they are specifically noted as unregistered, farm-use exceptions.

The Bottom Line: Do not assume these devices are covered, especially if there have been changed from the factory settings.

Review your current policy cover to confirm whether your electric vehicles is covered, excluded, or restricted by a sub-limit.

Talk to your insurance adviser who will be able to provide advice about cover that suits your needs.

General Advice Warning

This communication including any weblinks or attachments is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation or opinion, your personal or individual objectives, financial situation or needs have not been taken into account. This communication is not intended to be a constitute personal advice. We strongly recommend that you consider the suitability of this information, in respect of your own personal objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. This document is also not a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a policy wording, nor is it a summary of a particular product’s features or terms of any insurance product. If you are interested in discussing this information or acquiring an insurance product, you should contact your insurance adviser to obtain and carefully consider any relevant PDS or policy wording before deciding whether to purchase any insurance product.