Liability Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims

Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims

Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims?w=400
In a groundbreaking decision by the NSW Personal Injury Commission, an insurer has been directed to cover the costs of dog walking services for a car crash victim.
The commission ruled that these services classify as domestic assistance under the state’s Motor Accident Injuries Act.
This case could pave the way for broader interpretations of "attendant care services" for claimants.

The claimant, Jeffrey Forrest, sustained injuries to his neck, shoulder, arm, and hand following a rear-end car collision in 2020. His recovery was compounded by a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder. Last September, he sought to include the expenses incurred from employing a dog walking service in his claim for statutory benefits from QBE, the compulsory third-party insurer. At that point, Forrest had accrued approximately $800 in dog walking fees.

Initially, QBE covered some of the dog walking expenses, paying $39.95 per session. However, they later rejected further claims, stating that after Forrest’s recovery from surgery in March, such expenses were neither "reasonable nor necessary." QBE contended that dog walking did not constitute treatment or typical care, making it ineligible under the "attendant care services" category.

In a decisive move, commission member Belinda Cassidy ruled that dog walking indeed fits the scope of attendant care services, which aim to assist with everyday tasks. She explained that such services encompass personal assistance, nursing, home maintenance, and domestic tasks. She clarified that "everyday" does not imply daily occurrence, establishing that dog walking is an intrinsic part of Forrest's domestic life for which he may need support.

The insurer, QBE, argued there was no proof that Forrest was responsible for dog walking duties before the accident. Ms Cassidy acknowledged this might influence a separate evaluation of the costs’ reasonableness. However, she highlighted the possibility that Forrest's family, particularly his wife, might lack the time now due to new responsibilities, thereby necessitating such services.

The decision has been sent back to the commission for further medical assessments to conclusively determine if the dog walking expenses are reasonable and necessary, along with a review of associated costs.

Published:Thursday, 3rd Jul 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Impact of Trump Tariffs on Global Insurance Industry Impact of Trump Tariffs on Global Insurance Industry
11 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

According to Swiss Re’s latest Sigma report, the growth of property and casualty premiums is moderating in both Australia and globally. This moderation is primarily driven by a slowdown in rate hikes. Additionally, the Trump administration's America First trade policy is putting further pressure on the insurance sector. - read more
Navigating Changes in Australia's Life Insurance Advice Landscape Navigating Changes in Australia's Life Insurance Advice Landscape
10 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The conversation on the shifting dynamics in Australia's life insurance advice sector featured Zurich Australia's head of adviser channel, Kieran Forde, and Hayes & Co director, Katherine Hayes. They engaged with editor Chris Dastoor to spotlight the current market conditions and future prospects for financial advisers in this domain. - read more
ASIC Challenges Federal Court's 'Fair Term' Ruling ASIC Challenges Federal Court's 'Fair Term' Ruling
09 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is appealing a Federal Court decision regarding the wording of a 'pre-existing condition' clause in certain HCF Life insurance products. The court previously determined that while the wording had the potential to mislead consumers, it did not constitute an unfair contract term under the current laws set out in the ASIC Act 2001. - read more
ICA Advocates for Strata Law Reform in the ACT to Enhance Building Management ICA Advocates for Strata Law Reform in the ACT to Enhance Building Management
08 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is urging the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) to adopt strata transparency regulations, aiming to enhance oversight of building repairs and maintenance by owners’ committees. This call was made during a parliamentary inquiry, where the ICA pushed for measures akin to recent legislative changes in New South Wales. - read more
Tasmanian Government Insurance Proposal Faces Industry Backlash Tasmanian Government Insurance Proposal Faces Industry Backlash
07 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Tasmanian government's recent proposal to establish a state-run insurance entity has drawn significant criticism from key players in the insurance industry. The plan, spearheaded by Premier Jeremy Rockliff, aims to expand the Motor Accidents Insurance Board into a broader service named TasInsure, offering products including home and contents insurance, small business coverage, and more. The RACT, a major player in Tasmania's insurance sector, expressed considerable concern, labelling the initiative as a simplistic answer to complex problems. - read more


Business Insurance Articles

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
Public Liability Insurance for Events: What Organizers Need to Consider Public Liability Insurance for Events: What Organizers Need to Consider
Public liability insurance is a type of coverage designed to protect businesses and individuals from the financial fallout associated with claims for injury or damage caused to third parties. It is particularly crucial for event organizers, who are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of attendees, vendors, and participants. - read more
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
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
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 Smart Business Approach: How to Effectively Compare Public Liability Insurance Rates The Smart Business Approach: How to Effectively Compare Public Liability Insurance Rates
Running a business comes with inherent financial risks. Whether you own a small café or a large construction company, unforeseen incidents can lead to significant financial losses. - 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
Understanding The Costs: How Much Does Public Liability Insurance Typically Cost? Understanding The Costs: How Much Does Public Liability Insurance Typically Cost?
Public liability insurance is a crucial form of protection for both businesses and individuals, safeguarding them against potential claims for personal injury or property damage that occur as a result of their operations or services. In an increasingly litigious society, having this coverage can mean the difference between staying afloat financially and facing business closure due to unexpected claims. - read more
Public Liability Insurance Claims: What to Expect and How to Prepare Public Liability Insurance Claims: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Public liability insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for businesses and individuals against claims made by third parties for injuries or damages sustained while on their property or as a result of their activities. - 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


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

All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Insurance:
In law and economics, insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against the risk of potential financial loss.