Budget Direct named Insurer of the Year

Budget Direct has been named Insurer of the Year in the Money Consumer Finance Awards.

It was recognised for offering affordable premiums across a range of insurance products.

See the full list of winners in the Money Consumer Finance Awards 2026.

Budget Direct at a glance

• Winner: Insurer of the Year
• Why they won: Affordable premiums across a range of insurance products
• Top products: Car and Home and Contents cover

A simple insurance proposition

Jonathan Kerr, chief growth officer of Auto & General (which owns the Budget Direct brand), says, "At Budget Direct we focus on a simple, yet compelling insurance proposition; great cover, great customer service for a great price. That's what most Australians want."

Keeping premiums affordable

How does Budget Direct keep premiums affordable?

Kerr explains, "Competitive premiums are a key pillar of our business. We leverage advanced technology and underwriting practices to minimise overheads and manage risk effectively, as well as having a great blend of AI-enhanced, people-powered systems that make claims faster and easier.

"This operational excellence allows us to pass significant savings directly onto our customers, ensuring they receive exceptional cover and service without compromising on affordability."

More than competitive pricing

Competitive premiums aren't the only thing Budget Direct offers.

"We stand by our proposition of award-winning insurance with an outstanding customer experience," adds Kerr.

"This includes a streamlined, efficient claims process, user-friendly digital tools for managing policies and flexible cover options that meet customer needs and provide peace of mind.

"We consistently deliver this exceptional value, backed by dependable service. Proof of the proposition is that we paid out well over $1.5 billion in claims in the past 12 months," says Kerr.

Cornerstone products

"While we pride ourselves on delivering outstanding value across our portfolio, we have engineered our Car and Home and Contents cover to offer great cover and high-quality customer service at competitive prices, and we strive for this standard of excellence across all our lines of business."

Important note

It's important to note that the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is taking legal action against Budget Direct over 'discount' ads, alleging 39,000 customers were over-charged.

The corporate regulator claims millions of Australians saw ads promising up to 30% online discounts, but tens of thousands later lost those savings following routine policy changes such as a change of address.

Auto & General has since paid remediation totalling more than $3.8 million, including interest. The matter remains before the Federal Court.

Why Budget Direct won

Money is awarding Budget Direct on the basis that during a cost-of-living crisis, it still provides the most affordable policies.

Top products: Car and Home and Contents cover

Car and Home and Contents cover are Budget Direct's cornerstone products, offering great cover and quality service at competitive prices.

Read more: View all winners in the Money Consumer Finance Awards 2026.

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