Compare Life Insurance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurers Ordered to Compensate Despite Theft Claim Doubts

Insurers Ordered to Compensate Despite Theft Claim Doubts

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has mandated that Insurance Manufacturers of Australia compensate a claimant whose car was stolen while it was parked at a friend's residence.

The policyholder filed a claim two days after her vehicle was reported stolen on March 23, 2022. She recounted purchasing the car from a friend, who is a certified motor mechanic, and leaving it at their house for servicing.

Insurance Manufacturers of Australia had raised numerous concerns about the circumstances surrounding the theft. These included a lack of proof of purchase and incomplete information about the vehicle's service history. The car was insured despite the new owner not driving it, which also raised suspicions. In addition, the friend did not cooperate with the insurer’s inquiries.

AFCA responded by stating that it is common for individuals to not have a purchase receipt when buying a vehicle privately. They accepted the bank statements showing a $35,000 transaction labeled "AA-Van" as adequate evidence of payment. They also acknowledged that service history details may have been in the vehicle at the time of theft.

The ruling emphasized that purchasing insurance was logical as it included coverage for non-driving events such as theft. While cooperation from the mechanic friend would have aided the investigation, it was not deemed a sufficient reason to reject the claim.

Concerns were also raised by the insurer about why the car remained with the friend for over nine months and inconsistencies in the car’s documented compliance and build dates. AFCA found no definitive reason for the extended storage but accepted explanations, such as Melbourne's lockdown and the complainant’s husband's health issues, as plausible.

The authority acknowledged a confusing situation regarding date inconsistencies but noted that the vehicle identification number (VIN) was consistent across documentation, thus confirming ownership and associated loss.

“Although it seems unlikely that a certified motor vehicle tester would make an error in the build date, it’s not an implausible mistake to make,” commented AFCA’s adjudicator.

Given all evidence, AFCA concluded that the complainant should be recognized as the owner who suffered a financial loss, and they instructed Insurance Manufacturers of Australia to accept the claim and process the payout.

For more details on the original case and ruling, refer to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority’s documentation.

Published:Monday, 29th Jul 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Australian Insurers Brace for Profitability Decline After Record Highs Australian Insurers Brace for Profitability Decline After Record Highs
17 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian insurance industry is preparing for a downturn in profitability after achieving a decade-high return on equity (ROE) of 19% in the 2024-25 financial year. This peak performance was driven by robust underwriting results, substantial investment returns, and a period of relatively low natural disaster claims. However, industry analysts predict a six-point decline in ROE to 13% for the current financial year, bringing it back within the typical target range of 10% to 15%. - read more
Australian Insurtech Startups Experience Growth and Market Expansion Australian Insurtech Startups Experience Growth and Market Expansion
17 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian insurtech sector is demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability, with many startups reporting significant growth and successful market expansion. A recent survey of Insurtech Australia members reveals that companies generating annual revenues between $1 million and $10 million have experienced a 30% increase in revenue. Additionally, there has been a 10% rise in investment from private backers, indicating strong confidence in the sector's potential. - read more
Australian SMEs Advocate for National Reforms to Combat Rising Insurance Costs Australian SMEs Advocate for National Reforms to Combat Rising Insurance Costs
17 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia are facing mounting challenges due to escalating insurance premiums. A recent report by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Insurance Council of Australia, highlights the urgent need for coordinated national reforms to address this pressing issue. - read more
WFI Insurance Joins Forces with Farmsafe Australia to Boost Farm Safety Standards WFI Insurance Joins Forces with Farmsafe Australia to Boost Farm Safety Standards
16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to enhance safety within the Australian agricultural sector, WFI Insurance has announced a partnership with Farmsafe Australia. This collaboration is designed to raise awareness about farming hazards and advocate for the adoption of safer work practices among farmers. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

The importance of Income Protection Insurance for Employees The importance of Income Protection Insurance for Employees
While some people might think that income protection insurance is only for self-employed individuals, this is not accurate. This type of insurance is just as beneficial for employees, because accidents and illnesses can happen to anyone at any time. Workers' compensation provides only limited coverage, and most employees don't have much more than a few weeks' sick leave accrued. Of course, if you have more than one job, the situation becomes more of a concern if you are injured at one workplace resulting in being unable to work at either. - read more
Understanding Life Insurance: Securing Your Family's Future Understanding Life Insurance: Securing Your Family's Future
Defining life insurance and its importance: Life insurance is a pivotal financial product designed to protect your loved ones from economic hardship in case of your untimely death. It acts as a safety net, ensuring that your family can maintain their standard of living, cover outstanding debts, and afford future expenses like education and retirement. - read more
Income Protection vs. Total Permanent Disability: Which Is Right for You? Income Protection vs. Total Permanent Disability: Which Is Right for You?
Financial security is crucial in today's unpredictable world, where unexpected events can disrupt the stability and comfort of our daily lives. For Australians, protecting one's income and lifestyle from unforeseen circumstances is a key component of personal finance. - read more
Understanding Income Protection Insurance for Real Estate Professionals Understanding Income Protection Insurance for Real Estate Professionals
Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It ensures a portion of your income continues to be paid during times when you cannot earn. This type of insurance acts as a safety net, offering peace of mind by securing your financial stability during challenging times. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:


All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Copayment:
A fixed amount you pay for a covered healthcare service, usually when you receive the service.