Liability Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

ASIC Takes Hollard Insurance to Court Over Significant Claim Handling Issues

ASIC Takes Hollard Insurance to Court Over Significant Claim Handling Issues

ASIC Takes Hollard Insurance to Court Over Significant Claim Handling Issues?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.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal proceedings in the Federal Court against Hollard Insurance, alleging a breach of the duty of utmost good faith.
This action is in response to what ASIC describes as Hollard's "egregious" handling of a home and contents insurance claim filed by a couple from regional Victoria.

ASIC's case against Hollard revolves around the insurer's handling of the couple's claim following storm damage to their property in October 2021. The regulator claims Hollard's excessive delays and failure to conduct essential make-safe work have rendered the couple's home uninhabitable, leading to extensive moisture, mould, and decay issues that necessitate demolition and rebuilding.

Sarah Court, ASIC's deputy chair, highlighted the seriousness of the delays, stating that such prolonged inaction is unacceptable and potentially unlawful. The legal action aims to address growing concerns about increasing general insurance complaints and send a strong message about the unacceptability of such delays.

The claim, initially filed in October 2021, took Hollard nearly three and a half years to resolve. The insurer rejected the claim in April 2023, 18 months after its submission. Following this, the couple sought intervention from the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, which directed Hollard to provide compensation for non-financial losses and substantiated the storm as the proximate cause of the damage.

Hollard eventually consented to a cash settlement exceeding $1.5 million. However, ASIC contends that despite initially accepting the claim, Hollard delayed decisions regarding repairs, took over nine months to arrange a structural engineer inspection, and postponed the provision of temporary accommodation.

Responding to the legal action, a Hollard spokesperson acknowledged the proceedings and expressed support for ASIC's efforts in fostering consumer-positive outcomes. They noted Hollard's cooperation with ASIC but refrained from further commenting due to the ongoing nature of the legal matter.

Published:Monday, 14th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Nutrien Ag Solutions Tops Roy Morgan's Trusted Agribusiness Survey
Nutrien Ag Solutions Tops Roy Morgan's Trusted Agribusiness Survey
27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant development within the Australian agricultural sector, Nutrien Ag Solutions has been recognised as the nation's most trusted agribusiness, according to the latest Roy Morgan survey. This marks the first time Nutrien has achieved this distinction, overtaking Elders, a longstanding leader in the industry. - read more
Australian Sheep Industry's $139.8 Million Transition Plan in Full Swing
Australian Sheep Industry's $139.8 Million Transition Plan in Full Swing
27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian sheep industry is making significant strides in its $139.8 million transition plan, aimed at modernising and strengthening the sector. Recent weeks have seen the release of several grant programs under the Sheep Industry Transition Assistance Package (SITAP), providing much-needed support to farmers and associated businesses. - read more
PGA of Western Australia Back on Track After Financial Turmoil
PGA of Western Australia Back on Track After Financial Turmoil
27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Pastoralists and Graziers Association of Western Australia (PGA) has successfully navigated a period of financial uncertainty, emerging stronger after addressing internal financial irregularities. The organisation's commitment to transparency and effective management has been pivotal in restoring confidence among its members and the broader agricultural community. - read more
Rising Insurance Premiums Pose Financial Challenges for Australian Farmers
Rising Insurance Premiums Pose Financial Challenges for Australian Farmers
27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Australian farmers are currently facing significant financial challenges due to a sharp increase in insurance premiums. Reports indicate that some farmers have experienced a 20% rise in premiums over the past year, a trend largely attributed to the escalating risks associated with climate change. This surge in costs is prompting a concerning number of farmers to reconsider their insurance coverage, with some opting to forgo it entirely, thereby exposing themselves to substantial financial risk. - read more
Empowering the Future: Rural Aid's Initiative to Support Young Australian Farmers
Empowering the Future: Rural Aid's Initiative to Support Young Australian Farmers
27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Rural Aid has launched a compelling new fundraising campaign designed to secure the future of rural Australia by supporting the next generation of farmers. This initiative seeks to address the challenges faced by young and aspiring farmers, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the nation's agricultural sector. - read more


Business Insurance Articles

5 Tips for Reducing Your Liability Insurance Premiums in Australia
5 Tips for Reducing Your Liability Insurance Premiums in Australia
Liability insurance is a crucial form of protection that offers coverage against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people or property. Within the bustling landscape of Australian businesses, possessing this form of insurance is key to financial security and continuity. It acts as a safety net, ensuring businesses can manage risks without bearing the full brunt of potentially costly legal claims. - read more
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
The Cost of Safety: How Much Public Liability Insurance Does Your Australian Business Need?
The Cost of Safety: How Much Public Liability Insurance Does Your Australian Business Need?
As a business operating in Australia, understanding the ins and outs of public liability insurance is not just recommended, it's essential. This type of insurance serves as a safeguard, protecting your business against the financial repercussions of lawsuits and claims arising from third-party injuries or property damage due to your business operations. In a world where one unintended mishap can lead to costly legal battles, public liability insurance stands as your first line of defense. - read more
Understanding Liability Insurance: A Must-Read for Australian Business Owners
Understanding Liability Insurance: A Must-Read for Australian Business Owners
As a business owner in Australia, navigating the complexities of insurance is crucial to safeguard your enterprise against unforeseen events. Liability insurance emerges as a cornerstone of a sound risk management plan, protecting you financially when held responsible for accidents, injuries or negligence. Its importance cannot be understated, as it serves not only to defend your business assets but also to ensure peace of mind in a climate of continually evolving liabilities. - read more
Key Benefits of Comparing Public Liability Insurance Rates for Australian Businesses
Key Benefits of Comparing Public Liability Insurance Rates for Australian Businesses
As an Australian business owner, you face numerous financial risks daily. Accidents can happen at any time, whether it's a slip and fall on your premises or damage caused by your products or services. These incidents can lead to costly legal actions that may put significant strain on your business finances. - read more


Start Here !
Your free liability insurance quote comparison starts here!
Cover Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Whole Life Insurance:
A type of life insurance that provides coverage for the insured's entire lifetime, with a savings component that builds cash value.