Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

AFCA Supports Insurer's Decision in Ex-Spouse Death Dispute

AFCA Supports Insurer's Decision in Ex-Spouse Death Dispute

AFCA Supports Insurer's Decision in Ex-Spouse Death 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 an intriguing case involving travel insurance and familial ties, a woman's claim for travel costs upon the death of her ex-husband has been rejected.
While she returned abruptly from her vacation to support her family, Nib Travel Services (Australia) deemed her claim outside of coverage parameters.

The woman argued her involvement in family matters and proximity to her ex-spouse, with whom she shares four children, warranted the classification of a "close relative." However, AFCA's ombudsman ruled that her situation did not fit within the policy's strict definition, which encompasses direct blood, marital, or de-facto connections.

Despite acknowledging the familial ties, the ombudsman emphasized the policy's clear distinction of close relatives, explicitly listing ties such as spouse, children, and siblings. Notably, the complainant's absence from her ex-husband's 'marriages' section on the death certificate further validated the insurer's position to deny the claim.

While the ruling recognized the complainant's valid actions given her emotional and familial connections, the terms outlined by the policy were highlighted as definitive and comprehensive, excluding her specific relationship.

The decision underscores the importance of understanding policy definitions and the possible limitations faced when seeking coverage for non-traditional family structures within the insurance landscape.

Published:Wednesday, 30th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Insuregroup's Remarkable Growth in Truck Insurance Policies
Insuregroup's Remarkable Growth in Truck Insurance Policies
21 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
Insuregroup, a specialist insurance brokerage serving Australia's transport and logistics sector, has recently announced a significant milestone: processing over 10,000 insurance policies since its inception, with a 25% increase in policy volume over the past year. This growth underscores the escalating demand for comprehensive truck insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of Australian freight operators. - read more
ICA's Strategic Plan to Combat Escalating Motor Insurance Costs
ICA's Strategic Plan to Combat Escalating Motor Insurance Costs
21 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has unveiled a comprehensive report titled 'Motor Insurance Policy Paper - A Roadmap for Reducing Rising Premiums,' addressing the significant 42% increase in comprehensive motor insurance premiums since 2019. This surge has brought the average annual premium to $1,052 in 2024, prompting the need for coordinated action to alleviate the financial burden on consumers. - read more
Heightened Road Risks During Holiday Season: Insurers Issue Warnings
Heightened Road Risks During Holiday Season: Insurers Issue Warnings
21 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
As the Australian summer school holidays coincide with peak freight activity, insurers and transport specialists are raising concerns about heightened road risks. The surge in freight traffic, coupled with increased holiday travel, amplifies the potential for road incidents, particularly involving heavy vehicles. - read more
AustralianSuper Announces Reduction in Default Income Protection Cover
AustralianSuper Announces Reduction in Default Income Protection Cover
20 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
AustralianSuper, one of Australia's largest superannuation funds, has announced a significant change to its default income protection insurance. Effective from 28 February 2026, the fund will reduce the default income protection cover to $1,000 per month. This adjustment aims to align insurance coverage with members' actual income levels and prevent over-insurance, which can erode retirement savings. - read more
APRA Postpones Changes to Individual Disability Income Insurance Policy Terms
APRA Postpones Changes to Individual Disability Income Insurance Policy Terms
20 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a suspension of the planned changes to individual disability income insurance (IDII) policy contract terms. Originally set to take effect from 1 October 2022, the implementation has been deferred for at least two years, providing insurers and policyholders additional time to adapt to the forthcoming regulations. - read more
Ocean Underwriting Expands Product Suite with Cyber Insurance for SMEs
Ocean Underwriting Expands Product Suite with Cyber Insurance for SMEs
20 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
Ocean Underwriting, in collaboration with Tokio Marine Management Australasia, has launched a new cyber insurance product tailored for Australian small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This addition marks a significant expansion of Ocean's offerings, which already include property, liability, and professional indemnity insurance. - read more
Club Marine Revamps Policies to Reflect Modern Boating Innovations
Club Marine Revamps Policies to Reflect Modern Boating Innovations
20 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
Club Marine, Australia's leading provider of recreational boat insurance, has undertaken a comprehensive review of its product disclosure statements (PDS) to better align with contemporary boating trends and technologies. This initiative reflects the company's commitment to staying at the forefront of the marine insurance industry. - read more
AUB Group's Strategic Acquisition of Prestige Marks Global Growth
AUB Group's Strategic Acquisition of Prestige Marks Global Growth
20 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In a strategic move to bolster its international footprint, AUB Group, a prominent Australian insurance broker, has announced the acquisition of UK-based Prestige for $432 million. This acquisition signifies a pivotal step in AUB Group's global expansion strategy, enhancing its presence in the international insurance market. - read more
ACCC Halts IAG's Proposed Acquisition of RAC Insurance
ACCC Halts IAG's Proposed Acquisition of RAC Insurance
20 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) proposed $1.35 billion acquisition of RAC Insurance. The regulator's decision is rooted in concerns that the merger could substantially reduce competition in Western Australia's home and motor insurance markets. - read more
Rising Mental Health Claims Impact Australia's Income Protection Insurance
Rising Mental Health Claims Impact Australia's Income Protection Insurance
19 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent data from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveals a significant increase in mental health-related claims within Australia's income protection insurance sector. In 2024, mental health conditions accounted for 20% of income protection claims, resulting in payouts totaling $887 million. This marks a substantial rise compared to previous years, indicating a growing trend that insurers and policyholders must address. - 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
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
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
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
Investing in Your Farm's Legacy: Estate Planning and Farm Insurance Combined
Investing in Your Farm's Legacy: Estate Planning and Farm Insurance Combined
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
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
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
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
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


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
Public Liability Insurance:
Insurance which provides protection against liability to third parties.