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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Escalating Fuel Prices Challenge Australia's Trucking Sector

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian trucking industry is currently grappling with significant financial pressures due to escalating fuel prices. This surge is placing immense strain on operators who already contend with narrow profit margins, raising concerns about the sector's sustainability and the broader implications for the national economy. - read more

Court Ruling Emphasises Need for Clarity in Superannuation Insurance

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

A recent Federal Court decision has underscored the critical importance of understanding insurance coverage within superannuation accounts, particularly for individuals in high-risk occupations such as truck driving. - read more

Envest Group's TLI Underwriting Targets Large Truck Fleet Insurance

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Envest Group, a prominent entity in the insurance sector, has announced the launch of TLI Underwriting, a specialised heavy motor agency set to commence operations at the end of this month. This new venture is poised to cater specifically to the insurance needs of larger truck fleets, marking a significant expansion in Envest's service offerings. - read more

ASIC Takes Legal Action Against Budget Direct for Misleading Discounts

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal proceedings against Auto & General, the parent company of Budget Direct, alleging that the insurer engaged in misleading advertising practices concerning policy discounts. This action underscores the regulator's commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness within the Australian insurance industry. - read more

EML Group's Strategic Acquisition of Guild Insurance

30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant move within the Australian insurance sector, EML Group has acquired a majority stake in Guild Insurance. This strategic partnership is designed to unlock growth opportunities and accelerate the development of technology and artificial intelligence within the insurance landscape. - read more

Click for more Insurance News