Car Collector Fails in Bid for $122k Insurance Windfall

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
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

ACCC Halts IAG's Bid to Acquire RAC WA's Insurance Operations

05 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed the proposed acquisition of RAC WA's insurance division by Insurance Australia Group (IAG). This decision stems from concerns that the merger could significantly reduce competition within Western Australia's insurance sector, potentially leading to higher premiums for consumers. - read more

South-West Queensland Councils Explore Community Insurance Mutual to Combat Rising Premiums

05 May 2026: Paige Estritori

In response to escalating insurance premiums, with some residents experiencing increases of up to 500%, councils in South-West Queensland are exploring the establishment of a community insurance mutual. This initiative aims to provide more affordable and accessible insurance options for local communities, particularly those in flood-prone areas. - read more

IAG Highlights Climate Change as a Factor in Rising Home Insurance Premiums

05 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has recently highlighted the impact of climate change on rising home insurance premiums across Australia. The insurer reports that increasingly frequent and severe weather events are contributing to higher costs for homeowners seeking coverage. - read more

ACCC Halts IAG's Bid to Acquire RAC WA's Insurance Division

05 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed Insurance Australia Group's (IAG) proposed acquisition of the Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia's (RAC WA) insurance division. This decision stems from concerns that the merger would significantly reduce competition within Western Australia's insurance market, potentially leading to higher premiums for consumers. - read more

Unprecedented Rise in Mental Health Insurance Claims Challenges Super Funds

05 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia is witnessing a significant increase in mental health-related insurance claims, particularly within superannuation funds. This surge has led to calls for more efficient processing and faster payouts to support individuals facing mental health challenges. - read more

Click for more Insurance News