Liability Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Missed Insurance Coverage Turns Costly for Long-Time Client

Missed Insurance Coverage Turns Costly for Long-Time Client

Missed Insurance Coverage Turns Costly for Long-Time Client?w=400

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.

In a challenging outcome for a long-standing customer, a car owner has faced rejection in his bid for damage compensation after it was established that his insurance coverage had been terminated over five years before the incident.

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
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

Why steadier insurer results still call for a cover review
Why steadier insurer results still call for a cover review
08 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
APRA’s latest general insurance data suggests the Australian insurance sector is operating on a steadier footing, with industry results supported by firmer underwriting discipline, investment returns and ongoing attention to capital strength. For consultants, that is broadly positive news: a healthier insurance market can help maintain capacity and give buyers more room to discuss cover options at renewal. - read more
Falls From Height Are Back in Focus for Construction Risk
Falls From Height Are Back in Focus for Construction Risk
08 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
Renewed regulatory and industry attention on falls from height is a timely warning for Australian builders, subcontractors and project managers. While falls are usually discussed as a work health and safety issue first, they also sit squarely inside the insurance conversation because a serious incident can trigger workers compensation claims, public liability exposure, contractual disputes, investigation costs and reputational damage. - read more
Why Strong Insurer Results May Not Ease Freelance Premiums
Why Strong Insurer Results May Not Ease Freelance Premiums
08 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent general insurance results point to a sector that is in better financial shape than it was during the most intense period of claims inflation, severe weather losses and investment market volatility. Industry reporting on APRA data indicates that premium increases, stronger investment returns and more disciplined underwriting have helped Australian insurers rebuild margins, even as natural hazard risk and repair costs remain persistent pressure points. - read more
What New Safety Guidance Means for Personal Trainers
What New Safety Guidance Means for Personal Trainers
08 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent fitness sector guidance has again put safe service delivery in the spotlight for personal trainers, particularly as more Australians mix gym-based sessions with outdoor training, small-group classes, online coaching and higher-intensity programmes. The message for exercise professionals is practical rather than alarmist: when client needs are more varied, the systems behind each session matter just as much as the workout itself. - read more
New Operational Risk Expectations Put Insurer Reliability in Focus
New Operational Risk Expectations Put Insurer Reliability in Focus
08 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
APRA’s operational risk standard, CPS 230, has shifted from a regulatory project into a practical benchmark for banks, insurers and superannuation trustees. For insurance customers, the change is not just about compliance language. It goes to whether an insurer can keep essential services running when technology fails, a supplier breaks down, a cyber incident occurs or a major weather event drives a surge in claims. - read more


Business Insurance Articles

Understanding the Role of Public Liability Insurance in Business Disaster Planning
Understanding the Role of Public Liability Insurance in Business Disaster Planning
For Australian business owners, planning for unforeseen disasters is not just prudent; it's an essential aspect of sustaining operations amidst challenges. Recognizing the importance of comprehensive strategies, including robust insurance cover, can make all the difference in business longevity and legal protection. As we navigate the complexities of running a business, it's imperative to have a safeguard against mishaps that could otherwise jeopardize our hard-earned success. - read more
Reducing Your Risks: Public Liability Coverage Tips for Trade Professionals
Reducing Your Risks: Public Liability Coverage Tips for Trade Professionals
For tradesmen and trade professionals, venturing into the world of business comes with its set of challenges and risks. Among the myriad of precautions to consider, one critical safeguard stands out for its ability to protect both the tradesperson and their clients: Public Liability Insurance. This form of coverage is not just a safety net; it is a cornerstone of a responsible business practice within the trade industry. - read more
Common Myths About Public Liability Insurance Debunked
Common Myths About Public Liability Insurance Debunked
Today, we're diving into the world of public liability insurance, a crucial topic for anyone running a small business or working as a self-employed professional in Australia. - read more
How Public Liability Insurance Can Save Your Business During a Crisis
How Public Liability Insurance Can Save Your Business During a Crisis
Public liability insurance is designed to protect your business from financial loss if you are found liable for causing injury or property damage to a third party. This type of insurance covers legal costs and any compensation claims that might arise from accidents or incidents involving your business operations. - read more
Decoding Public Liability Insurance: Is It a Must-Have for Your Australian Startup?
Decoding Public Liability Insurance: Is It a Must-Have for Your Australian Startup?
Public liability insurance is an integral safety net designed to protect businesses from the financial risks associated with lawsuits or claims. It provides coverage when a business is found legally responsible for personal injury to a third party or damage to their property. This form of insurance can significantly reduce the burden of legal fees, compensation claims, and other associated costs that may arise from unforeseen incidents. - read more


Start Here !

Start here!

Cover Amount:
Postcode:
All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.

Knowledgebase
Rider:
An optional provision added to an insurance policy that provides additional benefits or coverage.