Missed Insurance Coverage Turns Costly for Long-Time Client

2

⚠️The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The episode came to light following a collision on April 26. When the man sought compensation from IAG, the insurance provider refuted the claim, identifying that his policy officially lapsed without renewal on April 8, 2019.

The customer contended he hadn't received any reminders or notifications regarding the renewal lapse. Emphasizing his loyalty, he mentioned his impressive track record of 18 years as a customer who consistently managed renewals punctually.

IAG countered his assertion by pointing to their records, which indicated that a renewal statement demanding a premium of $1036 had been broadcast among a massive batch of 11,163 documents for processing on March 9, 2019. Verification revealed the dispatch took place between March 11 and March 12, followed by Australian postal deployment on March 13.

Referring to a critical legislative factor, IAG underlined that the Insurance Contracts Act of 1984, through section 58, mandates at least 14 days' notice for renewal. Despite this, the legislation stipulates a cover ceiling of up to 12 months even where renewal communications falter - a window far exceeded in this scenario.

Evaluating the dispute, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) noted that under the Evidence Act 1995, the expectation was for the mail to reach its destination by March 22 - equating to a seven-day post from mail lodgment to receipt and allowing the customer ample grace before the renewal deadline.

AFCA further confirmed the absence of any refutation from the customer regarding this mailing timeline, reinforcing the lack of convincing testimony related to possible mail service disruptions impacting the delivery within his locality.

"The policy became void due to non-renewal five years preceding the claimed damages," affirmed AFCA. "A notional statutory policy, even if hypothetically existent, would have surpassed expiration over four years before the documented loss. Thus, no legitimate or statutory policy substantiation ties to IAG for the claim in question."

This case taps into the broader importance of consumers vigilant about policy end dates and renewal communications, spotlighting a harsh reality faced by the consumer after years of prior satisfactory engagement with the insurer.

Published:Monday, 9th Dec 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Survey Highlights Alarming Number of Australians Travelling Uninsured

16 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travelers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted industry leaders to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before traveling abroad. - read more

IAG's Impressive FY25 Performance and Strategic Outlook for FY26

16 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has reported a notable 4.3% increase in gross written premium (GWP), reaching $17.1 billion for the fiscal year 2025. This growth is accompanied by a net profit after tax of $1.36 billion, marking a significant rise from the previous year's $898 million. The company's reported insurance profit stands at $1.74 billion, with a margin of 17.5%, and a return on equity improving to 19.4%. Shareholders are set to benefit from a full-year dividend of 31. - read more

Potential Decrease in Australian Insurance Premiums Amid Global Market Downturn

16 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent developments in the global financial markets have sparked discussions about potential benefits for Australian insurance policyholders. A significant sell-off in the insurance sector on Wall Street has led analysts to speculate that Australian insurance premiums could see a reduction in the near future. - read more

NSW Court Decision Escalates Liability Risks for Construction Industry

16 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

A recent landmark ruling in New South Wales has significantly altered the liability landscape for the construction industry. The court's decision removes the ability for developers and builders to rely on proportionate liability defences under the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (DBP Act), thereby increasing their exposure to claims related to building defects. - read more

Rising Public Liability Insurance Premiums Challenge Australian Businesses

16 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released its latest National Claims and Policies Database (NCPD) statistics, revealing a substantial increase in public liability insurance premiums over recent years. According to the data, premiums have risen by 40% since 2015, a rate that surpasses general inflation and places additional financial strain on businesses across the country. - read more

Click for more Insurance News