Husband loses insurance dispute over wife's death

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.

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.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Australian Insurers Report Record Profits Amid Public Scrutiny

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian general insurance industry has reported an after-tax profit of $7.3 billion for the last financial year, marking its strongest performance in over a decade. This significant profit surge is attributed to lower-than-expected catastrophe losses and robust investment returns. However, this financial success has sparked public discourse regarding the fairness of pricing practices and the overall perception of the industry. - read more

ASIC Highlights Compliance Risks in Insurers' Claims Handling Practices

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has identified significant weaknesses in the claims handling practices of several insurers, raising concerns about potential compliance breaches. The regulator's recent review points to deficiencies in the oversight of expert reports and inadequate communication with consumers regarding cash settlement offers. - read more

Australian Insurers Brace for Earnings Slowdown After Record Profits

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

After achieving a return on equity (ROE) of 19% in the last financial year-the highest in a decade-Australian general insurers are preparing for a moderation in earnings growth. Consultancy firm Finity projects that the industry's ROE will decrease by six percentage points to 13% in the current financial year, aligning with the target range of 10% to 15%. - read more

Rising Liability Costs Put Pressure on Australia's Leisure Sector

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Amusement Leisure & Recreation Association (AALARA) has raised concerns over the escalating costs of public liability insurance, which are placing significant pressure on amusement and recreation operators across the country. This warning follows the Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) recent call for reforms to civil liability laws. - read more

New Report Highlights Insurance Challenges for Australian Small Businesses

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

A recent report by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has revealed that small businesses in Australia are paying up to 30% more for their insurance premiums due to taxes and levies imposed by state and territory governments. This financial burden is leading to a worrying trend where an increasing number of small businesses are either underinsuring or forgoing insurance altogether. - read more

Introducing 'eeger': A New Era for Hospitality Careers in Australia

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian hospitality industry has long been a cornerstone of the nation's economy, offering diverse experiences to both locals and tourists. However, recent challenges, including labour shortages and the need for skilled workers, have prompted the government to take proactive measures. In response, the Australian government, in partnership with Accommodation Australia, has unveiled 'eeger', a comprehensive platform designed to attract, train, and retain talent within the tourism, hospitality, and travel sectors. - read more

Harnessing Technology: A Catalyst for Growth in Australia's Hospitality Industry

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

In the face of rising operational costs and labour shortages, the Australian hospitality industry is increasingly turning to technology to drive growth and enhance customer experiences. A recent report by Lightspeed highlights that nearly half (47%) of venue operators acknowledge the pivotal role of digital tools in improving operational efficiency. Additionally, 41% noted enhancements in customer service, attributing these improvements to the integration of technology that allows staff to focus more on service delivery. - read more

Navigating Rising Costs: Challenges for Australia's Hospitality Sector

20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian hospitality industry is currently grappling with escalating operational costs, posing significant challenges to profitability and sustainability. Factors such as increased supply expenses, labour shortages, and economic uncertainties have converged, creating a complex landscape for businesses in the sector. - read more

NSW Introduces Strata Law Reforms to Strengthen Community Governance

19 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

On 27 October 2025, the New South Wales (NSW) Government implemented significant reforms to strata laws, aiming to enhance transparency, accountability, and financial management within strata schemes. These changes are designed to better meet the evolving needs of strata communities across the state. - read more

Strata Insurance Affordability Holds Steady Despite Rising House Insurance Costs

19 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

In its 2025 State of the Strata Market report, CHU has revealed that strata insurance premiums have experienced a modest increase of 2.8%, rising to an average of $981 per lot in the year leading up to June 2025. This increment is notably lower than the 14% surge observed in house insurance premiums during the same period. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Insuring your most valuable asset

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.

... compare rates & options ...