This paper discusses access to, and use of, financial services by those in regional and remote areas and challenges people may face when accessing financial services.

In December 2017, the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse final report made 409 recommendations. This document outlines the Australian Government's response in addressing each of these recommendations in partnership with state and territory governments.

The aim of the paper is to give the reader a guide to the law, regulation and practices in general insurance in Australia. It is a large topic. The importance of regulation in the work of the Commission means that the part dealing with regulation is much longer than the others.

The function of insurance in our community is highlighted in Australian natural disasters. Insurance in natural disasters has been in sharp focus since at least 2010. The variety, frequency, severity of natural disasters and catastrophes in Australia create unique challenges for the community, policyowners and insurers.

In response to a request from the Royal Commission, APRA has prepared this paper on the effect on an authorised deposit-taking institution’s (ADI) Tier 1 capital, where a loan is classified as impaired, a provision is raised and enforcement action against the loan’s security is taken.