We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!
Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.
At this time, the term "flood" remains the sole hazard with a universally accepted meaning. Recent reports from the Treasury suggest the possibility of delineating additional natural hazards such as fire, storm, and rainwater run-off associated with storms. This could involve reconsidering the larger framework that encompasses standard forms of coverage.
Robb Preston, the Treasury Assistant Secretary for Banking, Insurance, and Credit, communicated to the inquiry on a recent Friday that incorporating clear definitions for these hazards could significantly enhance consumers' comprehension of their insurance policies. Nevertheless, insurers face ongoing dilemmas in determining the exact scope of coverage and whether customers should be able to waive certain protections, such as those for flood damage—a decision that varies across the industry.
One particular challenge highlighted is discerning between various types of flooding events, such as standard floods and flash floods. Even with precise definitions, the practical application during claims assessment could lead to increased costs and delays in processing.
"The effort to standardize definitions of three potentially devastating natural hazards holds merit. However, I foresee unavoidable complexities that may persist, even with more uniform language," Preston stated.
Further, discussion around standardizing the terms concerning maintenance and general wear and tear—topics not included in the Treasury's existing consultation—was addressed by insurers. While seen as beneficial within certain limits, precise definitions here might reach the extent of their usefulness quickly and apply more to execution than concept.
Preston emphasized the value of the ongoing processes at the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), particularly because it enables industry representatives to reach a consensus on the definition of fair wear and tear. Such an agreement could prove highly beneficial for policyholders as they navigate their coverage entitlements amidst various conditions.
Published:Thursday, 21st Mar 2024
Source: Paige Estritori
| Antique Car Claim Hits the Brakes: Home Insurance Does Not Cover Vehicle Damage 24 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori In an intriguing turn of events, a dedicated car enthusiast's claim for damages to his vintage vehicle under home insurance has been denied after a careful review by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). The individual's relic, a 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280e sedan, which was being lovingly restored and was far from operational, rolled into an adjacent van following the snap of a winch cable. - read more |
| Communities Laud Insurance Improvements Post-Flood Events 23 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori Residents and officials from regions affected by flooding have observed a discernable shift in insurers' handling of claims following natural catastrophes, with recent proceedings reflecting a more positive trajectory. This outlook emerged during a federal inquiry session that gave a voice to flood-impacted communities in Heathcote, Victoria. - read more |
| Traveler's Appeal on Wildfire Claim Denied by Adjudicator 22 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori An individual's anticipation of a serene vacation in Hawaii was met with a grievous twist when wildfires ravaged Maui, leading to an urgent evacuation and unplanned expenses. A customer of Mitsui Sumitomo ventured to the Pacific paradise only to have plans upended by nature's wrath. The ensuing insurance claim denial sparked a dispute which has now been resolved by the authoritative voice of the industry’s dispute resolver, leaving a glaring reminder of the importance of scrutinizing insurance options. - read more |
| Life Insurance Participation Drops By Nearly One-Fifth in Five Years 19 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori Last year, research from a major insurance provider signaled a significant shift in the life insurance landscape within Australia, showing a marked decrease in the percentage of insured non-dependent adults of working age. Only 77% now carry some form of life insurance, a stark contrast to the 94% coverage rate recorded in 2017. Industries evolve, yet the dip in these figures marks a noteworthy trend within the life insurance sector. - read more |
| London's CFC Gears Up for Australian Expansion With Local Acquisition 18 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori In a strategic move to fortify its Australian footprint, the prominent London-based cyber insurance firm CFC has announced the procurement of Melbourne's Solution Underwriting. Already an experienced player in the Australian insurance sector, CFC’s recent acquisition marks a significant augmentation of its local operations. - read more |
| Urgent Call for Stamp Duty Reforms as Queensland Votes Loom 18 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori In the lead-up to the imminent Queensland state election, the Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby (ACIL) is fervently appealing to prospective legislators to prioritize an overhaul of the antiquated stamp duty regime. ACIL has pinpointed this as a critical issue, particularly in the context of the escalating costs that have disproportionately impacted residents in the north of the state. - read more |
| Clarification Call: Insurers Challenged on Confusing Terms Amid Crisis 11 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori For two consecutive days, the flood-affected residents of Queensland have been voicing their concerns during the ongoing deliberations of a federal inquiry, tasked with examining insurers' responses to the catastrophes of 2022. The inquiry, in its concluding phase, conducted its second public hearing in the Logan area on April 10th, 2024. - read more |
| Revamping Strategies Against Climate Threats After Sky-High Weather Losses 10 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori The undeniable escalation in weather-related calamities has thrust insurers and governmental bodies into the spotlight, urging a tactical shift in Australia's fight against nature's fury. A recent assessment by prominent insurance broker Aon sheds light on the nation's susceptibility to meteorological mishaps. - read more |
| Claims Handling Issues Propel Code Obligation Breaches Upward 10 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori The Life Code Compliance Committee (Life CCC) has recently published findings indicating an upsurge in code obligation breaches among industry participants, marking this as the third year of escalating incidents. Their report, 'Annual Industry Data and Compliance Report,' highlights a notable 9% overall inflation in the quantity of breaches during the period spanning from the 1st of July, 2022 to the 30th of June, 2023. - read more |
| Insurer Held Accountable for Overseeing Claim Delays 09 Apr 2024: .Paige Estritori Following a detailed review by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), it has been determined that the insurance giant QBE must compensate a policyholder to the tune of an additional $65,000. This ruling emerged on account of identified delays, by the insurer's assigned loss adjuster, that stalled crucial repairs to a fire-damaged bed and breakfast in Tasmania. - read more |
| Agroforestry Insurance Guide: Protecting Your Investment in Australia's Sustainable Future Agroforestry is a transformative approach to land management that integrates trees into agricultural landscapes. In Australia, where farmers contend with variable climates and environmental challenges, agroforestry offers a resilient pathway to productivity and sustainability. - read more
|
| Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers Australian farmers face an array of natural disasters that can threaten livelihoods and disrupt the delicate balance of agricultural ecosystems. From devastating bushfires and droughts to powerful storms and floods, these catastrophic events pose serious risks to the farming community. Understanding and preparing for these forces is not just about survival; it's about building a sustainable future for farms across the continent. - read more
|
| Protecting Your Herd: The Aussie Farmer's Guide to Livestock Insurance For Australian farmers, livestock is more than just a vital asset; it's the heartbeat of their livelihood. In a land where the sunburnt plains are as relentless as they are beautiful, protecting your herd isn't just a duty; it's a necessity. That's where livestock insurance comes into play—a shield against the unpredictability of Mother Nature. - read more
|
| How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance Farming, at its core, is an enterprise fraught with uncertainty. Weather calamities, pests, diseases, and fluctuating market conditions can all impact the output and quality of produce. This is where crop insurance proves its worth, serving as a safety net for farmers against the myriad risks they face each season. - read more
|
| Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums Welcome to our comprehensive guide on navigating the complexities of farm insurance for Australian farmers. As an integral part of the agricultural industry, insurance provides a safety net that helps secure the livelihood of farmers against unpredictable events that can lead to financial hardship. From property damage due to natural disasters to loss of livestock or crops, having adequate farm insurance can make all the difference in keeping a farming operation afloat in times of crisis. - read more
|
| From Droughts to Floods: Understanding Weather-Related Coverage in Farm Insurance Australian farmers face a unique set of challenges due to the vast and varied climate conditions that sweep across the continent. From the scorching heat and prolonged droughts of the Outback to the tropical storms and torrential rains of the northern regions, weather-related risks are an integral part of agricultural life in Australia. - read more
|
| Understanding Livestock Insurance: Essentials for Kiwi Farmers The agricultural landscape of New Zealand is lush with pastures and livestock, making the need for comprehensive livestock insurance an essential consideration for any farmer. As stewards of these precious resources, farmers understand the importance of safeguarding their livelihood against unforeseen events. Livestock insurance stands as a vital tool in a farmer's risk management arsenal, designed to protect against the potential financial devastation that could arise from loss of livestock. - read more
|
| Securing Your Farm's Future: Top Estate Planning Tips for New Zealand Farmers New Zealand's farming community forms the backbone of its thriving agricultural sector, yet many overlook the critical importance of proactive estate planning. With farmland often being held within families for generations, securing its future is not just a financial concern, but a deeply personal one as well. - read more
|
| When the Rain Doesn't Come: Financial Planning Tips for Persistent Drought For farmers across rural Australia, the unyielding dry spells brought on by persistent drought conditions are not just an environmental concern but a significant financial challenge. Effective financial planning becomes a cornerstone strategy for ensuring the resilience and longevity of these crucial agricultural businesses. The prickling heat and parched earth serve as stark reminders of nature's capacity to impact livelihoods, especially when the rain doesn't grace the farmlands for extended periods. - read more
|
| The importance of income protection insurance for hobby farmers As a hobby farmer, you may not rely on your farm for your main source of income. Perhaps you have a full-time job but enjoy farming as a way to supplement your income and pursue a passion. However, just because farming is a hobby does not mean there aren't risks involved. In fact, hobby farmers face many of the same risks as commercial farmers, such as injury, illness, loss of crops or livestock, and damage to property. - read more
|