Zurich has confirmed changes to its group insurance program for Australian Football League players after media reported it no longer includes head trauma.

A spokesperson says the insurer was asked to make a revised proposal for provision of cover within the AFL Players Association superannuation fund overseen by trustee AMP.

“We understand that the trustee, in consultation with the AFLPA, determined Zurich’s proposal was the most appropriate when compared with other available market offerings,” the spokesperson said.

“There remains continued widespread uncertainty about the long-term health impacts and risks associated with concussion events from playing high-contact sports, including the subsequent development of chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

“Beyond individual or group insurance arrangements, we acknowledge the establishment of the ‘severe injury benefit’ by the AFL and AFLPA in May 2025, to support players who have suffered a significant cognitive or bodily impairment from playing football.”

The changes will start on May 1, according to a copy of an email sent by AMP to AFL players.

The email – posted on X last week by SEN journalist Tom Morris – says the total and permanent disability exclusion for head trauma will apply to new claims where injury occurs on or after May 1.

An AMP spokesperson said: “We worked extensively to secure appropriate cover for members of the AFL Players Association Super Plan as part of a comprehensive insurance renegotiation process.

“This included canvassing proposals from across the insurance market, with the outcome reflecting the best possible cover available.”