Car Collector Fails in Bid for $122k Insurance Windfall

The dispute began when the owner's 2005 HSV Coupe GTO Z Series succumbed to flames in March of the previous year. RACQ Insurance accepted the total loss and initially valued the vehicle at $68,000.

However, the unsatisfied owner declined this offer, leading to an independent valuation which described the car as being in “good condition for its age and mileage” despite its 315,000km on the odometer.

Although comparable lower-mileage vehicles were advertised above $81,000, the heavy usage severely reduced its collectible appeal, the independent valuer noted. Conclusively, the evaluator deemed the insurer's offer reasonable.

The car owner contested this, alleging RACQ Insurance's assessment was flawed, particularly regarding the engine type and the car's rarity as one of only 60 manual transmission models, asserting its condition was excellent.

In response, RACQ revised their offer to $78,000 factoring in the vehicle's unique modifications and reconditioned engine, but the claimant stood firm in his refusal.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), upon review, sided with the insurer. AFCA deemed RACQ Insurance's valuation and the independent assessment to be “logical, well-considered and helpful.”

According to Glass's Guide referenced by the AFCA, the vehicle's maximum estimated market value could not exceed $58,100, considering its age and mileage. Although rare, evidence was insufficient to justify a $200,000 evaluation.

The AFCA stated, “The complainant has not provided persuasive evidence to demonstrate the vehicle's worth is beyond what the insurer offered. Under such conditions, adjusting the settlement upward would not be justifiable.”

Reference: Original findings from the Australian Financial Complaints Authority's ruling were sourced from RACQ Insurance's appeal letter. Read more about the decision here.

Published:Wednesday, 24th Jul 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

New Legislation Prohibits Life Insurers from Using Genetic Test Results 08 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori The Australian government has enacted legislation prohibiting life insurers from using the results of genetic tests to refuse coverage or increase premiums. This landmark decision aims to eliminate genetic discrimination and encourage individuals to undergo potentially life-saving genetic testing without fear of financial repercussions. - read more

Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Cyber and AI Risk Readiness 08 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey have raised concerns about the preparedness of Australian insurers in managing emerging risks, particularly those associated with cyber threats and artificial intelligence (AI). The survey, which gathered insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, including 37 from Australia, indicates that Australian insurers scored 6.6% lower on the Preparedness Index compared to their global counterparts. - read more

Rising Insurance Premiums Pose Challenges for Australian Businesses 08 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori Businesses across New South Wales are grappling with substantial increases in insurance premiums, prompting calls for urgent reforms to alleviate financial pressures. According to Business NSW's latest Business Conditions Survey, nearly 80% of businesses have experienced double-digit hikes in insurance costs over the past year, with one in three reporting increases of 30% or more. These surges significantly outpace the annual inflation rate of 2.5%, placing an undue burden on the business community. - read more

Impact of Victorian Bushfires on Home Insurance Costs 08 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori Recent bushfires in Victoria have caused significant devastation, leading to concerns about rising insurance premiums for homeowners in affected areas. The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has declared the fires a catastrophic event, with over 2,600 claims already lodged. This situation underscores the financial challenges faced by residents in regions prone to natural disasters. - read more