Farm Insurance Australia :: Articles

Top ten insurance questions

Top ten insurance questions

Top ten insurance questions
We get some interesting questions from our subscribers each month about various aspects of insurance ... so we've compiled a top 10 list of insurance questions and answers that embody a broad range of situations - and we're sure you'll find them of value!
  1. My insurance company did not send me a renewal for my policy. What can I do now that we have a burst pipe that has caused damage to our carpet?

    Under the law your insurance continues under the same conditions. However, the insurance company may have evidence that the renewal was in fact sent, so make sure you didn't just forget to reinsure. Check out our fact sheets on settling insurance disputes if the insurer does not come to the party.

  2. Why should I tell my insurance company about something that has happened to me in the last twelve months, even if it increases their risk, if they do not ask it on the policy?

    Time for a 2nd opinion on your Home & Contents Insurance?
    Image for Time for a 2nd opinion on your Home & Contents  Insurance?We now offer a nation-wide panel of specialist Household Insurance brokers ready to help you lock down the best value home and contents insurance solution - tailored to your individual needs and guaranteed to save you money!
    This will be part of your insurance policy. Sometimes the question is specifically asked e.g. whether you have modified your car in the last twelve months. If the question is not asked, and it is something you wish to keep confidential, you should get legal advice before the policy expires. Remember, if you do not disclose a material fact the insurance company may be able to avoid paying on a claim, so make sure you get advice.

  3. We suffered loss because of an accidental breakage in our house. The event is covered by the policy, but the damage was caused by one of my son's friends. Are we covered?

    It depends on what the policy states. For instance, it is generally accepted that losses are covered if the damage is caused by family members living permanently in the house. To check out this situation ring the insurance company or your broker, read the policy carefully, and if the loss is significant and you are still not covered, you might want to seek legal advice.

  4. Is it possible to get insurance for my gardener? Can I add it to my home insurance?

    Yes. You should get in touch with your insurance company or your broker and see what can be done. It is always a good idea to ensure that people working on your property are covered for accidents and other losses. However, first find out what sort of insurance the gardener carries.

  5. Will the insurer check all the details of my application for car insurance?

    If not I might be able to hide the fact that I have had three accidents, all my fault, in the last year. In fact the insurer may not check the accuracy of the information you give, but it may mean that when you make a claim it will be refused. In other words, there is every possibility that the information will be checked at the time you make a claim, and therefore a serious possibility that payment will be legally rejected.

  6. Should I review my level of home insurance?

    Yes, you should do this on a regular basis, especially with regard to the market value of the house.

  7. My car insurance application asks whether I have any traffic offences in the last five years. Surely they are not interested in my speeding fine last year?

    You should declare any traffic offence, no matter how innocuous. If you do not do this there may be grounds to refuse a claim in the future. Better to be safe than sorry.

  8. I think I paid too much for my insurance. Can I complain to the IEC?

    No, the IEC does not deal with these types of disputes.

  9. I got a favourable decision from the Insurance Enquiries And Complaints. However it took months from the time my original claim was rejected, and in the meantime I have had to rent furniture. Can I claim those expenses?

    No. Unfortunately for you the IEC can only order interest be paid on the amount of the claim due to the delay.

  10. Do I have to pay the insurer if I lose at the Insurance Enquiries And Complaints?

    No. This is one of the big advantages of the dispute resolution scheme.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori


Insurance News

QBE Highlights the Importance of Adequate Landlord Insurance QBE Highlights the Importance of Adequate Landlord Insurance
15 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Landlords in Australia have been advised by QBE Insurance Group to reassess their insurance coverage, following survey findings that indicate many could encounter financial hardships if their rental operations are interrupted. According to QBE's data, 38% of landlords might face financial challenges should their properties become uninhabitable or rental payments cease for a duration of two to six weeks. - read more
Court Denies E-Scooter Negligence Allegation Against City Council Court Denies E-Scooter Negligence Allegation Against City Council
14 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

An Australian court recently ruled in favour of the City of Joondalup, rejecting a negligence claim lodged by an injured e-scooter rider. The Western Australia District Court found the city not liable for an accident involving insurance broker Kirstin Leibbrandt, who collided with a fence post while riding an e-scooter in the Perth suburb of Hillarys. - read more
Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years
14 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent findings from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveal that mental health issues have become the primary cause of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims. Insurers disbursed nearly twice the amount for such claims in 2024 compared to five years prior. This data originates from the CALI and KPMG's Cause of Claims Results Report, highlighting a significant shift in the nature of insurance claims. - read more
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
Asbestos Scare Leaves Hospitality Business Uninsured Asbestos Scare Leaves Hospitality Business Uninsured
04 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The discovery of asbestos-contaminated mulch in a Sydney park led to the cancellation of a festival, resulting in significant financial losses for a hospitality business. Despite these setbacks, the company's claim for coverage under its business interruption (BI) policy was rejected. - read more
Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

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. - read more

Farm Insurance Articles

Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers
Risk management is the practice of identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks followed by coordinated efforts to minimize, monitor, and control the probability or impact of unfortunate events. In farming, risk management involves various strategies to protect the financial health and operational stability of the farm. - read more
Future-Proofing the Farm: What Every Tech-Savvy Australian Farmer Needs to Know About Insurance Future-Proofing the Farm: What Every Tech-Savvy Australian Farmer Needs to Know About Insurance
Welcome to the first steps in future-proofing your farming legacy. When we think about the hustle and bustle of daily farm life, it's easy to overlook the critical importance of estate planning. For the Australian farmer, estate planning is not just a matter of securing your assets; it's about ensuring the survival and progression of your hard-earned labour to the next generation. - read more
How to Safeguard Your Farm: A Guide for Australian Farmers How to Safeguard Your Farm: A Guide for Australian Farmers
Farming is inherently risky. With factors like weather, pests, and market fluctuations affecting crops, it's crucial to manage these risks effectively. - read more
Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers
In the dynamic world of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of farms. From tractors to harvesters, having the right machinery means managing your farm more efficiently. However, the high value of this equipment makes it essential to protect it adequately through insurance. - read more
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Hobby farming has become increasingly popular in Australia, with many individuals and families embracing the joys of growing their own produce, raising livestock, and enjoying a rural lifestyle. Whether it's a small vegetable garden, a few chickens, or a larger mixed farming operation, hobby farms offer both relaxation and a connection to nature. - read more
From Droughts to Floods: Understanding Weather-Related Coverage in Farm Insurance 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
Agroforestry Insurance Guide: Protecting Your Investment in Australia's Sustainable Future 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
Protecting Your Herd: The Aussie Farmer's Guide to Livestock Insurance 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
Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers 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
Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums 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
What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance
Crop insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to protect farmers from the financial losses that arise from damages to their crops. This could be due to various risks, including adverse weather conditions, pests, and diseases. - read more
Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It? Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It?
Farm liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects farmers from financial losses due to legal claims and lawsuits. This insurance is crucial for safeguarding your farm against various liabilities that may arise from farm operations. - read more
Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers
Risk management is the practice of identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks followed by coordinated efforts to minimize, monitor, and control the probability or impact of unfortunate events. In farming, risk management involves various strategies to protect the financial health and operational stability of the farm. - read more
The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age
Welcome to the defining era where technology and agriculture entwine, bringing forth the digital farmer's era. With the evolution of agribusiness in the tech age, comes an array of new tools, opportunities, and risks. As a custodian of the earth and steward of the latest innovations, safeguarding your digital farm is just as crucial as nurturing your crops and livestock. - read more
How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance 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
Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers 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 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
A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology
Farming is a vital industry in Australia, requiring significant investment in equipment, crops, livestock, and labour. As with any major investment, protecting it is crucial. That's where farm insurance comes in. - read more
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment
In the world of agriculture, having the right insurance coverage is essential. Farming is a high-risk industry that deals with unpredictable elements, and insuring your farm equipment can safeguard your livelihood. - read more
Agroforestry Insurance Guide: Protecting Your Investment in Australia's Sustainable Future 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

Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Farm Type:
Postcode:

Knowledgebase
Claim Adjuster:
An insurance professional who investigates and evaluates insurance claims to determine the amount the insurance company should pay.