Industry experts are signaling a potential risk for underwriters due to claims arising from inaccuracies produced by artificial intelligence (AI), likening it to the 'silent cyber' phenomenon of the past. Clyde & Co partner, Darryl Smith, highlights the issue, emphasizing how AI inaccuracies could impact various insurance policies, sometimes without immediate detection. - read more
An insurance dispute over the location of a vehicle culminated in the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) backing RAA Insurance in their decision to deny a claim. The issue surrounded the policyholder's claim that her son’s car was stored in South Australia, while the vehicle was allegedly used and registered in Victoria. - read more
Homeowners recently secured a favourable ruling against their insurer after a water leak led to significant structural damage. After large cracks emerged on their property, Youi initially denied the insurance claim, attributing the damage to pre-existing issues like earth movement and tree root intrusion, both of which are exclusions in their policy. - read more
More than 4% of Australian properties are currently facing heightened risks from natural hazards exacerbated by climate change, rendering insurance coverage often unaffordable or unavailable, according to recent findings by Climate Valuation. An analysis of over 15 million properties across 15,000 suburbs also highlights that an additional 10% are at moderate risk from disasters such as floods, bushfires, tropical cyclones, coastal inundation, and extreme winds. - read more
A contentious insurance claim has ended unfavourably for a motor policyholder after her husband mistakenly poured diesel exhaust fluid into her car's fuel tank. Although the policyholder initially received assurances from a Suncorp representative that the use of AdBlue fluid wouldn't be considered improper fuelling – supposedly an excluded scenario under her policy – the claim was later denied. This decision has sparked debate around policy definitions and customer service communication. - read more
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. - read more
Suncorp, a leading Australian insurer, has announced plans to reduce its workforce by cutting 30 of the 70 positions within its motor claims assessing coordinator team, with an intention to offshore some of these functions. This decision has prompted a response from the Finance Sector Union (FSU), which is currently gathering feedback from its members and intends to challenge the proposed changes. - read more
A recent decision by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has highlighted the importance of accurate disclosure in insurance applications. A trucking company's claim under an NTI commercial motor vehicle policy was denied after discrepancies were found in the company's insurance history and operational radius claims. - read more
Gow-Gates has successfully renewed its role as the official insurance broker for Football NSW, set to continue for an additional two years. The decision was made following an extensive tender process conducted by the soccer organization last year. - read more
The insured value of strata properties across Australia has soared to an estimated $1.4 trillion, according to a recent industry report. This significant figure highlights the growing importance of the strata sector, which now encompasses properties worth $486 billion in New South Wales, $471 billion in Victoria, $245 billion in Queensland, and $112 billion in Western Australia. South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory round out the country's strata market. - read more
TAL, a prominent life insurance provider, has announced its acquisition of a 15.1% stake in Challenger Limited. This strategic move is seen as part of TAL's efforts to deepen its involvement in the annuities market, as it seeks to address the evolving needs of Australia's ageing demographic. - read more
The destruction caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred is projected to demand approximately $1.7 billion in claims from the reinsurance pool, according to Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers. As the cyclone swept across Queensland on March 8, over 63,000 claims have already been lodged with insurers. The insurance coverage through the cyclone pool ceased 48 hours later, highlighting the widespread devastation in its wake. - read more
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is set to host a community consultation and information session in Casterton, a town in Western Victoria recently battered by hail and storms. This event, scheduled for Wednesday, aims to provide residents with an opportunity to engage directly with their insurers. - read more
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a federal election set for May 3, positioning the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) to leverage this political moment to advocate vigorously for enhanced risk reduction measures. The ICA is calling for substantial investment in mitigation strategies to address pressing issues of insurance affordability and resilience against natural disasters. - read more
The Supreme Court of New South Wales has imposed significant criminal penalties on Allianz Australia Insurance Ltd and AWP Australia Pty Ltd. Allianz received a $13.5 million fine, while AWP was fined $3.3 million. These penalties were for falsely or misleadingly promoting financial products online, breaching sections 1041E(1) and 1311(1) of the Corporations Act 2001. - read more
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Welcome to our comprehensive guide on preserving the value of your investment as an Australian truck owner. Whether you’re in it for the long haul or planning to upgrade in the future, maintaining your truck's value is crucial. In this article, we're going to explore essential strategies that can help you safeguard the worth of your truck, ensuring that when the time comes to sell or trade, you’re poised to recoup the maximum value possible. - read more
Truck insurance is a critical aspect of business for Australian truck owners and operators. It offers invaluable peace of mind and financial security in the event of accidents, theft, or other unforeseen circumstances that can impact your vehicles. Given the significant investment that trucks represent, the right insurance coverage can often be the defining factor between operational success and financial strain. - read more
As vital cogs in the supply chain, truck operators know that time is money. However, when the unexpected strikes and insurance claims become a reality, operators are thrust into a web of challenges that can bring even the most robust wheels to a halt. Facing a labyrinth of bureaucratic processes, truck operators must navigate the tumultuous waters of insurance claims, all while their primary source of income sits idle. - read more
When it comes to insuring your truck, there are many factors that go into determining your insurance premium. Insurance companies consider a wide range of factors when determining the cost of coverage, including the make and model of the truck, the age and driving history of the driver, and the level of coverage you choose. - read more
Understanding truck insurance is crucial for anyone involved with commercial vehicles in Australia. Considering the significant investment that a truck represents, protecting this asset becomes a top priority for owners and operators. But truck insurance goes beyond safeguarding the vehicle itself; it plays a vital role in securing the financial foundation of a trucking business. - read more
Public liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for your trucking business in the event of an accident or incident in which your business is deemed at fault and causes damage or injury to a third party. This insurance will cover the legal expenses and compensation costs that may arise as a result of such incidents. - read more
When it comes to heavy haulage insurance in Australia, many operators are under the impression that the cheapest policy is the way to go. However, this approach overlooks the essence of insurance as a protective investment into your business's future. Skimping on coverage can lead to catastrophic financial consequences in the event of an incident, far outweighing any initial savings made on premiums. - read more
When it comes to insuring your truck, there are many factors that go into determining your insurance premium. Insurance companies consider a wide range of factors when determining the cost of coverage, including the make and model of the truck, the age and driving history of the driver, and the level of coverage you choose. - read more
Managing a fleet of trucks in Australia presents a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to insurance. Fleet insurance is a critical component for the protection and financial stability of any trucking operation. Whether you're an independent owner-operator or manage a large fleet, understanding the nuances of fleet insurance can mean the difference between running a profitable business or facing unexpected financial burdens. - read more
Trucking plays a pivotal role in bolstering the economy, serving as the lifeblood that transports essential goods across vast distances. It is a profession that demands not just skill and precision, but also a deep understanding of the risks that come with the territory. Managing these risks effectively is crucial for the protection and continuation of your operations. - read more
Knowledgebase
Beneficiary: The person or entity designated to receive the death benefit from a life insurance policy.