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A man whose wife’s life insurance policy was revoked after a superannuation death benefit clause change has lost his dispute.
Legislation that started in March 2019 would have ceased the woman's default cover, unless she responded to a notice saying she wanted it to continue. The trustee said it complied with legislation by emailing the notice, but the complainant said she never received it.
The life insurance policy ceased on July 1 2019. On March 5 2020, the member asked for a replacement of the policy and was covered again. The member died on February 12 2021, and the complainant made a claim for the death benefit.
But AIA declined to pay, after determining that she had died from a preexisting medical condition. The complainant argued that he should be paid the death benefit but the trustee rejected the claim.
The complainant stated that it was never their intention to cancel the death benefit and in fact were relying on the benefit payout as part of her final estate for the family.
He went on to say that the trustee had failed to appropriately notify them that the death benefit would be cancelled.
He said that they had not been initially made aware that the death benefit had ceased. "When we did become aware, via online account, that the death benefit had ceased, we contacted [the trustee] to have it reinstated immediately.” he said.
He said the trustee also did not mention that the new cover excludes pre-existing conditions.
However, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority said it was satisfied and that new cover was explained in the Product Disclosure Statement. The decision to decline the claim is fair and reasonable, it added.
Published:Tuesday, 17th May 2022 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
Recent data indicates a notable decline in life and income protection insurance premiums across Australia, providing consumers with more affordable coverage options. According to the latest Direct Life Insurance Report from Rainmaker Information, direct life premiums have decreased by 7% since 2024. Similarly, direct income protection premiums have seen significant reductions, with average premiums for waiting periods of 30 days and 90 days decreasing by 12% and 13%, respectively. - read more
In a significant development for policyholders, TAL has expanded its Health Sense Plus program to encompass income protection (IP) policies. This initiative, effective from August 8, 2025, aims to incentivise proactive health management by offering premium discounts to clients who engage in preventative health checks. - read more
In response to escalating global shipping challenges, leading broker Marsh and Lloyd's underwriter Tokio Marine Kiln have launched a pioneering business interruption insurance specifically designed for ports. This innovative product aims to mitigate the financial impact of trade disruptions caused by various factors, including geopolitical tensions and operational strikes. - read more
In a significant move within the Australian insurance sector, Allianz Australia has successfully completed the acquisition of RAA Insurance for $642 million. This strategic acquisition, approved by the competition regulator on June 12, 2025, marks a substantial expansion of Allianz's footprint in the South Australian market. - read more
The Australian Parliament has initiated a comprehensive inquiry into the provision, regulation, and pricing of modern insurance products for small businesses and not-for-profit organisations. Announced on October 29, 2025, this inquiry aims to address critical issues affecting the insurance landscape for small enterprises across the nation. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has imposed a $16.8 million fine on Allianz Australia and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, for making false and misleading statements regarding travel insurance products. This penalty, announced on February 28, 2025, underscores the regulator's commitment to maintaining transparency and integrity within the insurance sector. - read more
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has announced an optimistic forecast for the financial year 2026, anticipating a 10% increase in gross written premium (GWP) and an insurance profit ranging between $1.55 billion and $1.75 billion. This projection follows a robust performance in FY25, where IAG reported a 4.3% rise in GWP to $17.1 billion and a net profit after tax of $1.36 billion. - read more
Australia's general insurance industry has reported a 19% return on equity (ROE) for the financial year 2025, marking the highest level in a decade. This significant achievement is detailed in the latest Optima Report by actuarial consultancy Finity, which attributes the strong performance to a combination of favorable factors. - read more
Australian homeowners are bracing for increases in insurance premiums following a series of extreme weather events in early 2025 that led to $1.8 billion in claims. The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has highlighted that the growing frequency and intensity of such events are significantly impacting insurance costs nationwide. - read more
In a significant ruling, a beauty therapist has achieved partial coverage for damages after contesting her insurer's application of a flood exclusion clause. This case underscores the complexities beauticians face when navigating insurance claims related to water damage. - read more
While many people would consider their home or their car to be their most valuable asset, it's your ability to earn an income that is most important in shaping your financial future.
Statistically, two thirds of working Australians will suffer an injury or illness that will sideline them for 90 days or more.
The majority of these people would not be able to pay their mortgage or meet car finance and other loan commitments without adequate income 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
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 in Australia is not just a job, it's a way of life. However, it’s also a livelihood that comes with its own unique set of risks. From unexpected weather events to machinery breakdowns, the life of an Australian farmer is fraught with uncertainties. - 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
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
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
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 is inherently risky. With factors like weather, pests, and market fluctuations affecting crops, it's crucial to manage these risks effectively. - 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
Insurable Interest: A financial or other kind of interest in the insured item or person, necessary for a valid insurance contract.