Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Undisclosed debt agreement results in rejected insurance claim

Undisclosed debt agreement results in rejected insurance claim

Undisclosed debt agreement results in rejected insurance claim?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.

A motorist lost her insurance claim dispute after failing to disclose a debt agreement while renewing her insurance policy.

The insured claimed for damage to her car following an accident in March last year. After buying her policy in i2018, she renewed it in i 2020. The client had entered a debt agreement on January 31, 2019 but failed to disclose it to her insurer at renewal.

The insurance company rejected her claim, saying it learned only recently she had a debt agreement and would not have re-issued the policy if it had known.

The insured alleged that she was not asked whether or not she had entered a debt agreement when renewing her policy but the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) determined that the insurer had reasonable grounds to deny the claim due to the non-disclosure of information by the complainant. 

The AFCA found evidence from which it appeared that the insurer informed the complainant of her duty of disclosure on policy renewal in a clear manner.

According to AFCA , “Section 21 of the [Insurance Contracts Act] provides for the insured’s duty to disclose every matter known to the insured that the insured knows to be a matter relevant to the insurer’s decision to accept the risk”.

The complainant said the insurer did not ask her specific questions about her financial position and was unaware of her need to inform the insurer that she had a debt agreement.

“I acknowledge that the complainant says that the insurer should have specifically asked her about her financial position during phone calls, however, the insurer is not required to do this.” AFCA said

The certificate of insurance required that the insured confirm that she was not currently bankrupt or subject to a debt agreement. The AFCA states that the complainant “provided no information to indicate a change in the matter”.

The insurer said that it was prejudiced by the fact that she withheld information about her debt agreement, and would not have renewed her policy had she informed them of this.

The insurer had to refund the complainant's premium for the policy period that commenced from her renewal if it had not done so.

Published:Wednesday, 25th May 2022
Author:

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

AIA Australia Honoured as Life Insurance Company of the Year
AIA Australia Honoured as Life Insurance Company of the Year
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
AIA Australia has been recognised as the Life Insurance Company of the Year by the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF) for the third consecutive year. This prestigious accolade underscores the company's unwavering dedication to enhancing customer wellbeing through innovative programs and partnerships. - read more
Swiss Re Suspends New Life Insurance Operations in Australia
Swiss Re Suspends New Life Insurance Operations in Australia
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Swiss Re Life & Health Australia has announced a suspension of new life insurance business activities in the country, effective October 2025. This decision stems from concerns over the sustainability of Total Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance products, which have seen a significant rise in claims, particularly those related to mental health. - read more
Australian Life Insurers Achieve Significant Underwriting Gains in Q4 2025
Australian Life Insurers Achieve Significant Underwriting Gains in Q4 2025
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian life insurance sector has reported a substantial underwriting gain of $279 million for the December quarter of 2025, a significant improvement from the $36 million recorded in the same period the previous year. This data, released by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), highlights a notable turnaround in the industry's financial performance. - read more
How Rising Insurance Premiums Are Impacting Australian Retirees
How Rising Insurance Premiums Are Impacting Australian Retirees
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In recent years, Australian retirees have faced a growing challenge: the escalating cost of insurance premiums. This trend is not only straining their fixed incomes but also jeopardising their financial security during retirement. - read more
Australia Implements Ban on Genetic Test Results in Life Insurance Underwriting
Australia Implements Ban on Genetic Test Results in Life Insurance Underwriting
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has recently enacted legislation that prohibits life insurance companies from using adverse genetic test results in their underwriting processes. This move addresses longstanding concerns that fear of genetic discrimination has deterred individuals from undergoing potentially life-saving genetic testing. - read more
Regulatory Review: ASIC and APRA Evaluate Life Insurance Premium Practices
Regulatory Review: ASIC and APRA Evaluate Life Insurance Premium Practices
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) have jointly released an update on their review of life insurance premium practices. This assessment focuses on how life insurers are addressing issues related to premium increases, product design, and the clarity of disclosure and marketing materials. - read more
Surge in Mental Health Claims Among Young Australians Poses Challenges for Life Insurers
Surge in Mental Health Claims Among Young Australians Poses Challenges for Life Insurers
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Life insurers in Australia are facing a significant increase in mental health-related claims, particularly from individuals in their 30s. This trend has raised concerns about the sustainability of insurance products designed to provide support for mental health issues. - read more
How Rising Insurance Premiums Are Impacting Australian Retirees
How Rising Insurance Premiums Are Impacting Australian Retirees
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent reports have highlighted a concerning trend: escalating insurance premiums are placing significant financial strain on Australian retirees. Some individuals have experienced premium increases of up to 400%, making it increasingly difficult to maintain essential coverage. - read more
ASIC and APRA Push for Reforms in Life Insurance Premium Practices
ASIC and APRA Push for Reforms in Life Insurance Premium Practices
09 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) have jointly called on life insurers to address issues related to premium increases, product design, and consumer disclosures. This initiative aims to ensure that life insurance products meet consumer needs and offer reasonable premium stability over the policy's lifetime. - read more
How Rising Insurance Premiums Are Impacting Australian Retirees
How Rising Insurance Premiums Are Impacting Australian Retirees
08 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent reports have highlighted a concerning trend: escalating insurance premiums are placing significant financial strain on Australian retirees. Some individuals have experienced premium increases of up to 400%, making it increasingly difficult for those on fixed incomes to maintain essential coverage. - read more
Car Finance- Quick & Easy
Image for Car Finance- Quick & EasyIf you are in the market for a new or used car, then we're in the market to help you arrange the money. Our car loan & leasing finance service is backed by a national panel of car loan specialists who will establish your eligibility, find lender/s offering the best deals for your situation - and help you through the approval and settlement process. No charge to you - and no obligation to proceed with any recommendations offered.


Farm Insurance Articles

Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers
Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers
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
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
What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance
What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance
Crop insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to protect farmers from the financial losses that arise from damages to their crops. This could be due to various risks, including adverse weather conditions, pests, and diseases. - 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
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 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
Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers
Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers
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
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
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
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


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

All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.


Knowledgebase
Subrogation:
The process by which an insurance company seeks to recover the amount paid to the policyholder from a third party responsible for the loss.