Investigations by the VBA revealed that Aycon Constructions had backed over 150 building permit applications with counterfeit domestic building insurance (DBI) records, performing building work without securing legitimate insurance policies. Builders in Victoria are legally obligated to obtain DBI for projects exceeding $16,000 to safeguard consumers and contractors alike.
The authority suspended Aycon’s operations in April after executing search warrants on multiple Melbourne sites, uncovering that the firm had been functioning without the essential DBI policies. The Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) substantiated these findings, indicating that Aycon had not only bypassed obtaining insurance for several projects but had also replicated VMIA’s logo for these false certificates.
In response to these egregious violations, Mr. Ayranci’s registration as a builder has been revoked, and he has been disqualified from the industry for three years — the maximum duration allowed under current legislation. The VBA classified Ayranci as “unfit and improper,” also stating that his actions epitomize unprofessional conduct.
Anna Cronin, Commissioner and CEO of the VBA, emphasized the regulator's unwavering stance against disreputable builders. "This unprecedented penalty exemplifies our commitment to using every tool in our regulatory arsenal to protect consumers from unethical practices and ensure compliance in the building industry," remarked Ms. Cronin. "We urge consumers always to verify their builder’s registration and confirm the presence of a valid DBI policy, which is a legal necessity."
The VBA continues to engage with affected clients of Aycon, having noted a "relatively small" yet concerning number of complaints filed in May. The agency seeks to support these customers as they navigate the repercussions of Aycon’s malpractice.
Published:Saturday, 20th Jul 2024
Source: Paige Estritori
| Strata Communities Endorse Call for Enhanced Resilience Reforms 04 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori Strata communities are at the forefront of Australia's resilience battle, facing escalating costs, declining coverage, and prolonged recovery periods following disasters. Strata Community Association Australasia (SCA) has expressed strong support for the Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) recent call for coordinated, long-term resilience reforms to protect communities from these challenges. - read more |
| Push for Strata Insurance Reform Escalates After PICA's Withdrawal Threat 04 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori The debate over transparency in strata insurance has intensified following reports that PICA Group, Australia's largest strata management company, threatened to withdraw its membership from the Strata Community Association (SCA) New South Wales. This move comes as the SCA pushes to phase out commissions on strata insurance, a practice long criticised for creating conflicts of interest between strata managers and property owners. - read more |
| Australian Insurers Tackle Premium Affordability Challenges in 2026 04 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori In 2026, Australian insurers are placing a strong emphasis on premium affordability as they confront escalating claims costs and climate-related losses. This shift in focus is driven by a combination of factors that are reshaping the insurance landscape. - read more |
| ASIC's 2026 Enforcement Agenda: Implications for the Insurance Sector 04 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has unveiled its enforcement priorities for 2026, placing a significant emphasis on the insurance sector. Key areas of focus include failures in insurance claims and complaints handling, as well as misleading pricing practices that may impact Australians' cost of living. - read more |
| Family Planning: Exploring Life Insurance Options for New Parents Stepping into parenthood comes with a myriad of responsibilities, one of which includes securing your family's financial future. Life insurance serves as a financial cornerstone for young professionals who are navigating the complexities of family planning. Recognizing the significance of the role insurance plays can empower new parents to make informed decisions that corroborate their family's safety and well-being. - read more
|
| Combining Financial Security and Affordability: Income Protection for Australians Explained Financial security is a cornerstone of peace of mind, particularly when life is known for its unpredictability. This introductory section sheds light on the vital nature of income protection insurance and its role in safeguarding Australians' financial well-being. Ensuring continual financial inflow during times of illness or injury not only offers stability but also protects one's standard of living. - read more
|
| Securing Your Family's Future: How Life Insurance Offers Peace of Mind Life is a tapestry of precious moments, each framed by the inevitable uncertainty that the future holds. The awareness that our paths are peppered with unpredictability can often cast a shadow of concern, affecting how we cherish the present. For many, the well-being of family remains the cornerstone of life's purpose, driving the need for a foundation that offers stability and reassurance in the face of life's unexpected challenges. - read more
|
| Income Protection Insurance: A Lifeline for Self-Employed Aussies Income protection insurance is a vital financial safety net designed to support individuals who find themselves unable to work due to illness or injury. It provides a replacement income stream, cushioning the financial blow when life throws unexpected challenges your way. For self-employed Australians, who don't enjoy the same benefits as salaried employees—like sick leave or employer-funded superannuation—income protection becomes even more essential. - read more
|