ASIC Takes Hollard Insurance to Court Over Significant Claim Handling Issues
ASIC Takes Hollard Insurance to Court Over Significant Claim Handling Issues
ASIC's case against Hollard revolves around the insurer's handling of the couple's claim following storm damage to their property in October 2021. The regulator claims Hollard's excessive delays and failure to conduct essential make-safe work have rendered the couple's home uninhabitable, leading to extensive moisture, mould, and decay issues that necessitate demolition and rebuilding.
Sarah Court, ASIC's deputy chair, highlighted the seriousness of the delays, stating that such prolonged inaction is unacceptable and potentially unlawful. The legal action aims to address growing concerns about increasing general insurance complaints and send a strong message about the unacceptability of such delays.
The claim, initially filed in October 2021, took Hollard nearly three and a half years to resolve. The insurer rejected the claim in April 2023, 18 months after its submission. Following this, the couple sought intervention from the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, which directed Hollard to provide compensation for non-financial losses and substantiated the storm as the proximate cause of the damage.
Hollard eventually consented to a cash settlement exceeding $1.5 million. However, ASIC contends that despite initially accepting the claim, Hollard delayed decisions regarding repairs, took over nine months to arrange a structural engineer inspection, and postponed the provision of temporary accommodation.
Responding to the legal action, a Hollard spokesperson acknowledged the proceedings and expressed support for ASIC's efforts in fostering consumer-positive outcomes. They noted Hollard's cooperation with ASIC but refrained from further commenting due to the ongoing nature of the legal matter.
Published:Monday, 14th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori
Share this news item:
| Calls for Super Funds to Accelerate Mental Health Insurance Claims Processing 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Consumer advocates are raising concerns over significant delays in processing mental health-related insurance claims by Australian superannuation funds. As mental health conditions become a leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims, the efficiency of claim processing has come under scrutiny. - read more |
| GT Insurance Provides Flexible Solutions Amid Global Trade Shifts 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori As global trade dynamics undergo significant shifts, GT Insurance is reaffirming its commitment to supporting marine clients navigating these challenges. The recent imposition of US tariffs—25% on Australian steel and aluminium, and 10% on other exported goods—has introduced new uncertainties for local exporters, particularly in sectors like beef and bulk freight. These tariffs, effective from April 5, 2025, have prompted concerns about declining export volumes and reduced freight margins. - read more |
| Northern Australian Marinas Struggle with Rising Insurance Costs 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori Marina operators in Northern Australia are confronting a significant crisis as insurance premiums escalate dramatically, with some experiencing increases exceeding 300% over recent years. This surge in costs is placing immense financial strain on the industry, prompting urgent calls for government intervention. - read more |
| Significant Rise in Australian Home Insurance Premiums in 2025 11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori In 2025, Australian homeowners experienced a substantial increase in home and contents insurance premiums, with the average annual premium rising by 14%, equating to an additional $343. This surge has placed a significant financial burden on many households, prompting concerns about the affordability and accessibility of essential insurance coverage. - read more |
| Why life insurance is a necessity in tough times With household budgets under pressure ... and consumer confidence weak, many families are wondering whether life insurance is worth the expense. Or maybe it is something they can do without? - read more
|
| Loss of income insurance: Case Study Rebecca is a single, self-employed graphic designer who works from home. Aged in her mid-30s, she has monthly commitments of a mortgage and car payments and the usual living expenses. - read more
|
| 5 Tips to Save on Health Cover as an Australian Senior Finding the right health insurance coverage is a critical concern for Australian seniors, who often face the dual challenge of managing chronic health conditions and maintaining financial stability in retirement. As the cost of healthcare continues to rise, the importance of securing an affordable health cover that still meets their needs cannot be overstated. - read more
|
| Smart Insurance Solutions to Protect Your Financial Future In today’s unpredictable world, insurance plays a critical role in safeguarding your financial future. From unexpected medical bills to protecting your home and business, the right insurance can be a safety net that helps you navigate life’s uncertainties. - read more
|
The amount it would cost to replace or rebuild an insured asset with one of similar kind and quality, without depreciation.