Suncorp to Slash Jobs and Offshore Work in Motor Claims

1

The FSU highlights key concerns among its members, including the brevity of the consultation period, the rationale behind the offshoring strategy, and the future job security of the affected employees at Suncorp. The union is preparing to engage with Suncorp's management to address these issues and seek clarity on the proposed measures.

Suncorp's spokesperson has explained that the restructuring aims to refine the efficiency of the motor claims team, particularly in organizing towing processes for customers. To mitigate job losses, Suncorp is offering redeployment opportunities within other segments of its motor claims operations and inviting affected employees to transition to the home claims team, especially to support customers impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

This restructuring move comes after Suncorp reported an 89% surge in net profit, reaching $1.1 billion, in its half-year results. This increase was driven by a one-time gain from the sale of its banking operations, beneficial natural hazard experiences, and positive investment results. However, the insurer also noted rising costs in motor claims due to increased portfolio exposures and cost inflation, despite achieving better recoveries.

A historical context shows that the FSU had previously prevented Suncorp from offshoring weekend duties of the motor claims team, which could have resulted in significant pay reductions for the affected staff.

This development is critical as it highlights ongoing changes in the Australian insurance sector, specifically how major players like Suncorp are adapting to financial pressures by reorganizing their operations. Such restructuring not only affects the livelihoods of employees but also sets a precedent in the industry for addressing cost challenges through offshoring and role reductions.

The next steps involve the union's active engagement with Suncorp's management, seeking to safeguard the interests of its members. Expert analysis suggests that while offshoring is a common cost-cutting measure, it requires a sensitive approach to balance employee welfare and organizational efficiency. Further developments in this case could influence employee relations and operational strategies within the insurance sector across Australia. Stakeholders await more details from Suncorp regarding potential additional measures to handle increased claims costs effectively.

Published:Friday, 11th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

AFCA Upholds Pause on QBE Claim but Dismisses Fraud Allegation 21 May 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has ruled on a dispute involving insurer QBE and a vehicle damage claim. While QBE has been permitted to halt the processing of the claim until the policyholder, a company director, provides additional information, the fraud allegations levied against the claimant remain unsubstantiated. - read more

AFCA Upholds Policyholder's Claim, Dismisses Fraud Allegation in Car Theft Case 19 May 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has dismissed allegations of fraud against a policyholder by Auto & General Services following an unsatisfactory investigation related to a stolen and burnt-out vehicle. The ruling in favour of the claimant highlights procedural gaps in the insurer’s investigation. - read more

Asgard Announces Significant Hike in Insurance Premiums 16 May 2025: Paige Estritori Asgard, the investment platform owned by Westpac, has announced substantial increases in insurance premium rates, ranging from 0.7% to 94.6%. This decision comes in collaboration with AIA Australia following a review of its insurance offerings. The changes, which will affect clients with Asgard Personal Protection Packages, are attributed to rising costs, including claims expenses. - read more

ClearView Transitions to Pure-Play Life Insurance, Emphasizes IFA Ties 14 May 2025: Paige Estritori ClearView, a publicly-listed insurer, has reaffirmed its commitment as a 'pure play life insurance company' following its strategic exit from the wealth management sector. This transition, finalized in March 2025, completes a multi-year effort pivoting the company towards becoming a technologically advanced life insurance firm. - read more