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.
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.
The policyholder argued that according to the product disclosure statement (PDS), only "incorrect fuel usage" was excluded, and as AdBlue is technically not a fuel, her claim should be valid. Additional grievances arose after alleging the insurer’s tow service inflicted further damage to her car, necessitating a new steering rack and wheel realignment.
Suncorp acknowledged the issue with its initial claim rejection, where the decision was based solely on the original PDS. However, the insurer pointed to a supplementary product disclosure statement (SPDS), which explicitly excludes coverage for damage resulting from using fluids not recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer. This key differentiation was reportedly communicated to the policyholder during her policy renewal.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) sided with Suncorp, determining that the insurer did not mislead the customer about her claim status. While Suncorp admitted to referencing outdated PDS wording initially, AFCA deemed their reliance on the updated SPDS appropriate and found no obligation for the insurer to cover the incident. Additionally, AFCA found limited evidence to support the policyholder's accusations regarding damage caused by the towing service, reinforcing Suncorp's account of a winched, non-dragged vehicle recovery.
Despite these rulings, AFCA ordered Suncorp to compensate the policyholder $3000 for delay-induced inconveniences during the claim process, which left her without her vehicle for an extended period, citing the resulting undue stress and hassle.
This case highlights the importance of clear communication and understanding of policy amendments, emphasizing the role supplemental documents play during insurance assessments. Consumers are reminded to review documentation thoroughly during renewals to grasp the full scope of their insurance protections and exclusions.
In a significant development for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Australia, BizCover has been appointed as the exclusive direct online distributor for Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance's (BHSI) professional indemnity (PI) insurance products. This partnership, effective from 1 October 2025, enables SMEs to access BHSI's PI coverage directly through BizCover's digital platform. - read more
Sterling Insurance has recently secured a new professional indemnity (PI) binding authority with Lloyd's, a move that promises to provide Australian brokers with greater control over product offerings and pricing structures. This development is part of Sterling's ongoing commitment to delivering tailored insurance solutions that meet the specific needs of niche and complex risk sectors. - read more
Arch Insurance Australia has announced the appointment of Jacqueline Kilday as Senior Professional Indemnity (PI) Underwriter for the Northern Region, effective immediately. This strategic hire underscores Arch's commitment to expanding its professional indemnity capabilities and providing comprehensive coverage solutions to clients across New South Wales, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory. - read more
New South Wales has introduced a series of reforms aimed at strengthening the maintenance and repair obligations of strata properties, enhancing the safety and integrity of these communities. Effective from November 2025, these changes grant NSW Fair Trading the authority to issue compliance notices and enter enforceable undertakings with owners' corporations that fail to meet their maintenance responsibilities. - read more
Whitbread Insurance Brokers has announced the appointment of Lia de Sousa as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant strategic shift towards exclusive specialization in strata insurance services. With nearly four decades of experience in the insurance industry, including over 25 years at Whitbread, Ms. de Sousa brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. - read more
CHU Underwriting Agencies, Australia's leading strata insurance provider, has announced significant enhancements to its residential strata insurance policy, reflecting the evolving needs of property owners and strata communities. These updates aim to simplify insurance processes, bridge coverage gaps, and provide more comprehensive protection for strata residents. - read more
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of New South Wales has imposed fines totaling $16.8 million on Allianz Australia Insurance and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, for disseminating misleading information about their travel insurance products between 2016 and 2018. This decision underscores the critical importance of transparency and accuracy in the insurance sector. - read more
Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travelers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted industry leaders to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before traveling abroad. - read more
In 2024, medical incidents emerged as the leading cause of travel insurance claims among Australian travelers, accounting for more than 40% of all claims handled by nib Travel. This trend underscores the critical importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance to mitigate the financial risks associated with medical emergencies abroad. - read more
Over the past five years, Australian homeowners have experienced a significant 51% increase in home insurance premiums. This surge has placed a considerable financial burden on property owners nationwide, with Darwin residents facing the highest costs. - 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Farming is inherently risky. With factors like weather, pests, and market fluctuations affecting crops, it's crucial to manage these risks effectively. - read more
Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Knowledgebase
Term Life Insurance: A form of life insurance that is a pure protection policy with no cash or maturity value which lasts for a specific length of time, called a term.