A motorist's claim that he crashed into a tree to avoid a possum has been denied by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), which supported the insurer's fraud decision. The incident involved the driver crashing his Jeep—insured for over $20,000—on a dimly-lit street, purportedly avoiding the rain-soaked motorway en route to the store. - read more
The Life Code Compliance Committee has recently reprimanded a life insurance provider for issuing misleading rejection letters to policy applicants. These letters were deemed 'ambiguous and contradictory' and failed to clearly inform applicants of their review options after being denied coverage. - read more
A recent ruling mandates that an insurer must fully honor a storm-related claim due to ambiguous policy wording regarding items in open areas. The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) determined that the insurer's restriction on coverage for items in a patio area was unfounded, as the policy's phrasing was not clear. - read more
Last year saw Australia's insured catastrophe losses plummet to just $500 million, marking the lowest level since 2004, according to Aon's latest Climate and Catastrophe Insight report. Notably, the Insurance Council of Australia reported no disasters for the year, a situation not seen since 1982. This comes in stark contrast to 2023, when disaster-related insured losses soared to over $3.6 billion. - read more
The Climate Change Authority has released a concerning report highlighting that, without immediate intervention, extreme natural hazards could cost Australians approximately $8.7 billion annually by 2050. The report urges the federal government to spearhead a comprehensive and well-coordinated national adaptation agenda to mitigate these risks. - read more
An Australian travel policyholder has been denied a claim payout after his planned cruise in the Red Sea was cancelled due to conflict. The insurer, Southern Cross, invoked its policy's war and violence exclusion clause, as disturbances in the region were linked to military activities, rendering the claim invalid. - read more
The ACT Insurance Awards have recently acknowledged the standout performers within the insurance sector, with EML Group's Canberra branch receiving the prestigious title of Insurance Leader of the Year. This accolade sets a benchmark in the industry, emphasising excellence and leadership among its professionals. - read more
Australia's prominent life insurer, TAL, has partnered with the global insurtech firm, Cover Genius, to introduce an innovative 'digital-only', embedded life insurance product. This new solution aims to serve Australian workers such as part-time employees, contractors, and casual staff who often lack access to affordable insurance coverage. - read more
Recent findings from a Consumer NZ survey highlight increasing skepticism towards insurers in New Zealand, as affordability remains a significant concern for many. The survey noted that insurance now ranks as the fourth-largest financial pressure among respondents, trailing housing, food, and household debt, marking an upward shift from sixth place last October. This change has negatively impacted the industry's reputation, with more individuals expressing distrust towards insurers. - read more
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has supported Open Insurance's decision to deny a refund to a customer who cancelled his motor policy after being informed that his new rooftop tent installation would breach policy guidelines. The policyholder was advised that any modifications, including a 'slip on camper/tent or camper conversion,' would void coverage, prompting him to cancel his insurance in March. - read more
In a triumphant moment for Australian life insurer Acenda, the company secured top honours in four of the ten categories at the Australian Life Underwriting and Claims Association (ALUCA) Life Insurance Excellence Awards. Formerly known as MLC Life Insurance, Acenda emerged as a finalist in nine categories, ultimately winning the Leadership Award, Claims Team Award, Customer Service Team Award, and Partnership Impact Team Award. - read more
A recent ruling by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) supported Auto & General's decision to deny a motor policyholder's claim after a crash. The decision stemmed from the policyholder's failure to disclose a driving-related good behaviour bond, despite his claims of a learning disability affecting his understanding of the policy's inquiries. - read more
In a recent decision, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) directed insurer QBE to honour an arson claim for a restaurant, despite the owner's failure to disclose prior criminal convictions during the policy's inception. The restaurant, which operates from a leased location, suffered extensive damage due to an arson attack on August 2 of last year, halting its business operations. While the arsonist was apprehended, QBE initially denied the claim, citing non-disclosure of the director's criminal history. - read more
The insurance industry secured a net profit after tax of $1.11 billion in the March quarter, with major contributions from insurers at $990 million and reinsurers at $123 million, as revealed by the latest data from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. The insurance service result, a key indicator of underwriting success, reached $1.32 billion during this period, while investment returns added an impressive $1.18 billion. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal proceedings against Choosi Pty Ltd, alleging deceptive practices in its insurance comparison service. The regulatory body charges that from July 2019 to June 2025, Choosi misrepresented its offerings, claiming to compare funeral and life insurance policies from multiple insurers while actually only comparing products from a single provider, Hannover Life Re of Australasia Ltd. - read more
Recent figures from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority reveal that individual disability income insurance (DII) recorded an underwriting profit of $231 million for the first quarter of 2025, continuing a five-quarter streak of profitability. This performance shows promising growth compared to the December 2023 quarter, which saw an $86 million loss. Although the latest profit is up from $138 million in the last quarter, it still falls short of the $419 million achieved a year before. - read more
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has ruled that a camper trailer owner will receive coverage for water and mould damage after the insurer could not demonstrate that the wear and tear exclusions applied under the policy. The case emerged after a storm in November 2023, which the claimant says caused severe wind to rip the cover off the camper, allowing water ingress and subsequent mould development. - read more
Australia’s leading financial regulators, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), have raised concerns regarding the practice of duration-based pricing in life insurance products. They have emphasised the need for insurers to improve transparency, ensuring that consumers are fully informed about the long-term costs associated with initial premium discounts. - read more
A policyholder faces a denied claim after inadvertently excluding his newly licensed 21-year-old son from his car insurance policy, highlighting a common oversight in age-specific exclusions. Following a collision involving his son, who recently earned his licence, Hollard Insurance declined the claim based on policy terms that excluded drivers under 25, unless accompanied by a qualified adult. - read more
Recently, New South Wales has been severely affected by major floods, with damages to around 10,000 homes and businesses. The Insurance Council of Australia has already received over 6,000 claims from the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions, while countless families face displacement as their homes become uninhabitable. - read more
A ride-share driver recently won a significant claim dispute against an insurer that initially denied his claim following a traffic accident. The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) sided with the driver, determining that Auto & General could not prove he misrepresented his vehicle use when purchasing his insurance policy. - read more
In a groundbreaking development for the Australian life insurance sector, a new digital initiative promises to simplify the process of providing medical information for life insurance applications. The collaboration between Acenda, formerly known as MLC Life, and EQ Pathology introduces “smart” digital questionnaires to streamline data collection. - read more
The landscape of pet insurance in the UK has marked another milestone, with payouts reaching an unprecedented £1.23 billion ($2.36 billion) last year. This 4% increase over the previous year is attributed to soaring veterinary fees, reflecting broader inflation trends in the industry. - read more
As floods wreak havoc across New South Wales, the stark reality of inadequate insurance coverage emerges as a pressing issue for farmers, homeowners, and businesses. In localities like Taree, the lack of flood coverage is a cause for concern as the region grapples with the aftermath of record-breaking rains and destruction. - read more
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A boat insurance policy is a contract between an insurer and a boat owner, providing protection against various risks and liabilities associated with owning and operating a boat. It typically covers damage or loss to the boat, liability for bodily injury or property damage caused by the boat, and medical expenses for individuals injured on the boat. - read more
Boat ownership is a popular recreational activity in Australia, but it’s also important for boat owners to understand the potential risks involved. That's where boat insurance comes in. It's a form of financial protection that helps to cover the costs of any damages, accidental losses, or other unexpected events while using your boat. - read more
For Australians who own a boat, having the right insurance coverage is crucial. Owning a boat is not just a leisure activity but also a significant investment, demanding protection against unforeseen incidents. An appropriate insurance policy helps safeguard your valuable asset, providing peace of mind while you're enjoying the open waters. - read more
Setting sail with your little ones can provide an unforgettable adventure and an opportunity to create lasting memories. In this section, we're going to highlight the joys of boating as a wholesome activity for the entire family. From the gentle rocking of the waves to the excitement of discovering new shores, boating offers a unique experience that can be educational and relaxing for both adults and children. - read more
Boat insurance policies are an essential requirement for boat owners in Australia. Understanding the different types of policies available, the level of cover provided by each policy, and the factors that can impact premiums, are all important steps when choosing the best insurance policy for your boat. - read more
Navigating the waves around Australia's vast coastline is a pastime many hold dear. However, with great adventure comes the responsibility of ensuring your marine vessel is insured adequately. Skippers Down Under are no strangers to the unpredictable challenges at sea, and the significance of securing a suitable insurance policy cannot be overstressed. - read more
Welcome aboard, Aussie skippers! When it comes to navigating the waves, whether you're doing it for leisure or livelihood, securing the right boat insurance is as crucial as knowing your starboard from your port. With varied waters and changing conditions, Australian boat owners face unique challenges that make comprehensive insurance coverage not just a choice, but a necessity. - read more
For Australians who own a boat, having the right insurance coverage is crucial. Owning a boat is not just a leisure activity but also a significant investment, demanding protection against unforeseen incidents. An appropriate insurance policy helps safeguard your valuable asset, providing peace of mind while you're enjoying the open waters. - read more
Australia's climate is a tapestry of extremes, with its beautiful coastlines often bearing the brunt of severe and capricious weather conditions. From unforgiving sun to sudden squalls, Aussie boat owners know all too well the challenges that Mother Nature can present. - read more
Welcome aboard the important topic of navigating the waters of boat insurance in Australia! Whether you're a seasoned skipper or a weekend sailor, ensuring your vessel is protected should always be a top priority. Boat insurance not only offers peace of mind but is also a crucial safeguard for your investment against unexpected events and accidents. - read more
Knowledgebase
Liability Insurance: A type of insurance that provides protection against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people and/or property.
