Federal Treasury is consulting on draft regulations governing the incoming ban on using genetic test results in life insurance.

Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino says the rules – due to start on October 8 – will provide “certainty to consumers, health practitioners, and insurers on how the ban applies.

“Once in force, the ban will prevent life insurers from requesting or using adverse genetic testing results in their underwriting decisions. This reform delivers on the government’s commitment to balance access to affordable life insurance with the health and wellbeing of Australians.”

Ban exceptions are allowed if a policyholder volunteers for a test and using it improves the policyholder or beneficiary’s outcomes.

The closing date for submissions is June 26. Find out more here.