Car Collector Fails in Bid for $122k Insurance Windfall

8

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

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

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

AUSactive Unveils Comprehensive Insurance Solution for Fitness Professionals

22 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

AUSactive, Australia's leading body for the exercise and active health sector, has recently introduced a new insurance product tailored specifically for fitness professionals. This initiative aims to provide enhanced protection while offering more affordable premiums compared to existing market options. - read more

AUSactive and Health Partners Join Forces to Enhance Support for Fitness Professionals

22 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

AUSactive, the peak body for the exercise and active health sector in Australia, has announced a significant partnership with Health Partners, a not-for-profit health fund with over 85 years of service to South Australians. This collaboration aims to recognize eligible AUSactive personal trainers and fitness businesses as approved providers under Health Partners' Extras policy. - read more

AUSactive Partners with Private Healthcare Australia to Advance Health Insurance Reforms

22 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

AUSactive, Australia's leading organization for the exercise and active health sector, is collaborating with Private Healthcare Australia (PHA) to spearhead reforms in private health insurance. The primary objective of this partnership is to broaden access to evidence-based preventive health services, including Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, and structured exercise programs delivered by accredited professionals. - read more

Significant Increase in Health Insurance Premiums Anticipated for 2026

21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Health insurance premiums are set to experience a substantial increase in 2026, with projections indicating a global rise of 10.3%. This marks the third consecutive year of significant hikes, following increases of 10% in 2025 and 9.5% in 2024. These figures are highlighted in WTW's 2026 Global Medical Trends report, underscoring the persistent inflationary pressures affecting insurers and employer-sponsored health plans worldwide. - read more

Private Health Insurers Under Scrutiny for Profits Amid Rising Premiums

21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent analyses have brought to light significant concerns regarding the profit margins of private health insurers in Australia, especially in the context of rising premiums. The Australia Institute has highlighted that major insurers are reporting substantial profits while simultaneously increasing premiums, a situation that has sparked criticism and calls for greater transparency within the industry. - read more

Click for more Insurance News