Massive Fines Hit Rogue Builders Over Fake Insurance
Massive Fines Hit Rogue Builders Over Fake Insurance
11
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.
On July 19th, 2024, in a significant crackdown on fraudulent building practices, Aycon Constructions along with its director, Seyit Ayranci, received a record-setting fine of $250,000 from the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).
The enforcement action came after the construction firm was implicated in the use of falsified insurance certificates to secure building permits.
Investigations by the VBA revealed that Aycon Constructions had backed over 150 building permit applications with counterfeit domestic building insurance (DBI) records, performing building work without securing legitimate insurance policies. Builders in Victoria are legally obligated to obtain DBI for projects exceeding $16,000 to safeguard consumers and contractors alike.
The authority suspended Aycon’s operations in April after executing search warrants on multiple Melbourne sites, uncovering that the firm had been functioning without the essential DBI policies. The Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) substantiated these findings, indicating that Aycon had not only bypassed obtaining insurance for several projects but had also replicated VMIA’s logo for these false certificates.
In response to these egregious violations, Mr. Ayranci’s registration as a builder has been revoked, and he has been disqualified from the industry for three years - the maximum duration allowed under current legislation. The VBA classified Ayranci as “unfit and improper,” also stating that his actions epitomize unprofessional conduct.
Anna Cronin, Commissioner and CEO of the VBA, emphasized the regulator's unwavering stance against disreputable builders. "This unprecedented penalty exemplifies our commitment to using every tool in our regulatory arsenal to protect consumers from unethical practices and ensure compliance in the building industry," remarked Ms. Cronin. "We urge consumers always to verify their builder’s registration and confirm the presence of a valid DBI policy, which is a legal necessity."
The VBA continues to engage with affected clients of Aycon, having noted a "relatively small" yet concerning number of complaints filed in May. The agency seeks to support these customers as they navigate the repercussions of Aycon’s malpractice.
The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has proudly announced the recipients of the 2025 National Trucking Industry Awards, recognising outstanding contributions and achievements within the sector. These awards highlight the dedication and excellence of individuals and organisations that drive the industry forward. - read more
Insuregroup, a specialist insurance brokerage serving Australia's transport and logistics sector, has announced a significant milestone, surpassing 10,000 processed policies since its inception. This achievement includes a remarkable 25% year-on-year growth in policy count, highlighting the escalating demand for comprehensive truck insurance solutions among Australian freight operators. - read more
In a significant move to enhance productivity and environmental standards within the trucking industry, the Australian government has amended regulations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. Effective from 1 November 2024, heavy vehicles that comply with Euro VI or equivalent noxious emissions standards are permitted a 500kg increase in general access mass limits. - read more
Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are lagging behind their global counterparts in risk preparedness. The survey, which gathered insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, indicates that Australian insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index compared to the global average. - read more
Australian homeowners are facing significant increases in home insurance premiums, with average rates rising by 16% over the past year. This surge is largely attributed to the escalating frequency and severity of extreme weather events, which have led to higher claims and increased rebuilding costs. - read more
Reinsurance plays a pivotal role in maintaining the financial stability of Australian insurers, effectively shielding them from potential losses that could reach up to $70 billion. In the past financial year, general insurers in Australia invested approximately $2.5 billion in reinsurance, a strategic move that has proven invaluable in mitigating the financial impact of increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters. - read more
As the Australian summer holidays approach, a significant increase in road traffic is anticipated, coinciding with peak freight activity. This convergence raises concerns about heightened road risks, prompting insurers and transport specialists to issue warnings to motorists. - read more
Australia's transport and haulage sector is currently navigating a period marked by an uptick in motor collision claims, posing significant challenges for fleet operators nationwide. This trend underscores the necessity for enhanced risk management and insurance strategies to safeguard operations and maintain profitability. - read more
The National Truck Accident Research Centre (NTARC) has released its latest Major Incident Investigation Report, shedding light on the predominant causes of significant truck crashes across Australia. The findings underscore the critical need for targeted interventions to enhance road safety within the transport industry. - read more
Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey indicate that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in preparedness for cyber threats. The survey, which gathered insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, revealed that Australian insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index compared to the global average. - read more
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
Farming is much more than an occupation; it's a way of life and a heritage that often spans generations. In today's ever-evolving agricultural landscape, embracing modern practices while preserving your farm's future has never been more crucial. Estate planning emerges as a pivotal strategy for safeguarding your agricultural legacy, ensuring that your hard-earned investments and the land you hold dear are passed on according to your wishes. - read more
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Knowledgebase
Insurance Deductible: That part of an insurance claim that must be paid by an insured person before the the balance is paid by the insurer.