Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

AFCA Backs Policyholder in Stolen Car Dispute

AFCA Backs Policyholder in Stolen Car Dispute

AFCA Backs Policyholder in Stolen Car Dispute?w=400

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.

In a recent ruling, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) sided with a motor insurance policyholder, awarding her the full value of her stolen vehicle alongside $3000 for non-financial losses, dismissing the insurer's fraud accusations.

The ordeal began when the woman's 2013 Holden mysteriously disappeared from her street in November 2023. Despite promptly informing the police, the car was not recovered. The insurer, IAG, viewed the situation with skepticism due to the claimant's financial situation and contested the validity of the claim.

IAG's skepticism was based on an external investigation, which highlighted that the policyholder was unemployed, received Centrelink support, and had a limited bank balance. These financial conditions appeared to IAG as motives for a dishonest claim, particularly with the vehicle's insurance valued at $30,800-deemed excessive by the insurer.

Additionally, the investigator noted the police's possibility that the car might have simply been misplaced instead of stolen, and pointed out discrepancies in the claimant's account regarding the car keys and her partner's observations of the theft incident.

IAG found further support from a forensic locksmith's opinion. The expert argued that the Holden's dual factory immobilisation made it an unlikely target for auto theft.

Countering the accusations, the car owner maintained her innocence, highlighting her full cooperation with both the insurer and the police. She attributed any errors in her statements to confusion and stress, exacerbated by personal difficulties, including domestic violence.

The claimant also clarified that any prior damage to the vehicle was minor and that she had been planning repairs. Stress and relationship issues had delayed these plans. She explained that her speculation on the vehicle's possible whereabouts stemmed from the local reputation for abandoned cars.

After examining the details, AFCA determined that IAG's fraud assertions lacked substantial proof, emphasizing no clear evidence from both the police and the locksmith that implicated the claimant in the theft.

AFCA's ombudsman acknowledged minor discrepancies in the testimonies from the claimant and her partner but dismissed them as common and insufficient to substantiate a fraud claim.

The ruling ordered IAG to process the insurance claim and address $3000 in compensation for the stress induced by their claims management approach. AFCA stated, “The insurer’s accusations of dishonesty were serious yet unsupported, leading to unwarranted distress for the complainant.”

The case highlights the need for thorough evidence before allegations of fraud are asserted. Engaging with policyholders in good faith remains pivotal to fair claims handling. This incident, originally reported by Insurance News, underscores the importance of compassionate and evidence-based claim assessments.

Published:Monday, 17th Feb 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

TAL's Health Sense Plus Now Covers Income Protection
TAL's Health Sense Plus Now Covers Income Protection
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a strategic move to make life insurance more relevant to younger Australians, TAL has expanded its Health Sense Plus program to encompass income protection policies. This initiative allows advisers to offer clients enhanced value through a straightforward preventative health engagement. - read more
APRA Calls for Sustainable Reforms in Income Protection Insurance
APRA Calls for Sustainable Reforms in Income Protection Insurance
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has expressed concerns regarding the sustainability of income protection insurance, following significant losses within the industry. Over a five-year period, insurers have reported losses totaling $2.5 billion on this product. - read more
HCF Life Recognised for Excellence in Income Protection Insurance
HCF Life Recognised for Excellence in Income Protection Insurance
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
HCF Life, part of Australia's largest not-for-profit health fund, has been honored with the 'Best for Income Protection Insurance (Direct)' award by WeMoney for the third consecutive year. This accolade underscores HCF Life's commitment to providing competitive and customer-focused insurance products. - read more
Significant Drop in Australian Commercial Insurance Rates
Significant Drop in Australian Commercial Insurance Rates
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a notable development for Australian businesses, commercial insurance rates have experienced a significant decline. According to Marsh's Global Insurance Market Index, the Australia-Pacific market saw an 8% drop in commercial rates during the fourth quarter of 2024, marking the most substantial decrease globally. - read more
Rapid Growth of Australian Insurtech Sector Signals Industry Transformation
Rapid Growth of Australian Insurtech Sector Signals Industry Transformation
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian insurtech sector is experiencing rapid growth, introducing innovations that are set to transform the insurance landscape. A recent report titled 'Insurtech Down Under: Trends, Tech and Triumphs' highlights the sector's expansion and its potential to enhance efficiency, security, and customer engagement within the industry. - read more
IAG CEO Predicts Ongoing Insurance Premium Rises
IAG CEO Predicts Ongoing Insurance Premium Rises
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Insurance Australia Group (IAG), a leading insurer in Australia, has reported a significant 91% increase in net profit for the first half of the 2024-2025 financial year, reaching $778 million. This substantial profit growth is largely attributed to favourable weather conditions during the period. - read more
Climate Change's Impact on Home Insurance Costs
Climate Change's Impact on Home Insurance Costs
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has highlighted that climate change is playing a significant role in the rising costs of home insurance premiums across Australia. The insurer's recent report indicates that the increasing frequency and severity of weather events are elevating risks for homeowners, leading to higher insurance costs. - read more
Significant Insurance Premium Increases Reported by Choice
Significant Insurance Premium Increases Reported by Choice
02 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Consumer advocacy group Choice has released a report highlighting substantial increases in home and contents insurance premiums across Australia. The report indicates that some insurers have raised their rates by over 30% in the past year, significantly outpacing the average premium increase of 16%. - read more
Preparing for Summer Storms: Elders Insurance's Advice to Farmers
Preparing for Summer Storms: Elders Insurance's Advice to Farmers
01 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
As the Australian summer approaches, Elders Insurance has issued a cautionary advisory to farmers, emphasising the heightened risk of storm-related damages during this season. Recent data indicates a significant increase in insurance claims due to summer storms, underscoring the need for proactive measures to safeguard agricultural assets. - read more
New Partnership Offers Insurance Savings for Sustainable Farmers
New Partnership Offers Insurance Savings for Sustainable Farmers
01 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant move towards promoting sustainable agriculture, WFI Insurance has partnered with AgCarE to offer premium reductions to farmers who achieve AgCarE certification. This collaboration aims to enhance financial, environmental, and social outcomes for Australian farmers and rural communities. - read more


Farm Insurance Articles

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
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
Tractors, Livestock, and Crops: Tailoring Your Farm Insurance to Fit Your Needs
Tractors, Livestock, and Crops: Tailoring Your Farm Insurance to Fit Your Needs
Welcome to the world of farming, where the fruits of your labor are as tangible as the soil you till. But just as the land is subject to the whims of nature, so too is the business of agriculture. This is where farm insurance becomes essential. Farmers face a set of challenges and uncertainties unlike any other industry, primarily due to the unpredictable forces of weather. - 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
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
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
Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers
Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers
Farming in Australia is more than just a way of life; it is a critical sector that supports the nation’s economy and food supply. However, managing a farm comes with its own set of unique risks. From natural disasters to equipment failures, farmers face numerous challenges that can impact their livelihood. - 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
The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
As the backbone of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays an essential role in day-to-day operations across our expansive and diverse landscapes. From the vast wheat belts to the tropical fruit farms, machinery ensures efficiency and productivity in the face of constant challenges. But with reliance on such equipment comes significant risk—the financial burden of damage or loss can be devastating to a farmer's livelihood. - 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


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

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Moral Hazard:
The concept that individuals may take on more risk when they do not bear the full consequences of that risk, often relevant in insurance scenarios.