Caravan Insurance Online :: News

Share this news item!

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.

A car enthusiast's efforts to boost his insurance payout from $78,000 to $200,000 after his rare vehicle was destroyed by fire have been thwarted.

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

ATA Challenges Productivity Commission's Proposal to Double Truck Fuel Tax

01 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has expressed strong opposition to the Productivity Commission's proposal to more than double the tax on truck fuel. The plan suggests phasing out fuel tax credits for trucking operators, effectively increasing the fuel tax rate from the current 32.4 cents per litre to 66.1 cents per litre by 2035. - read more

PERILS Revises Loss Estimate for November 2025 Storms in Queensland and NSW

01 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In a recent update, catastrophe data provider PERILS has increased its insurance industry loss estimate for the severe convective storms that struck Queensland and New South Wales between November 21 and 27, 2025. The revised estimate now stands at AU$2.95 billion, marking an 11% rise from the initial figure of AU$2.663 billion released in January 2026. - read more

Federal Court Denies Truck Driver's Insurance Claim Against Superannuation Fund

01 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In a recent legal decision, the Federal Court dismissed a truck driver's insurance claim against the Australian Retirement Trust. The case centred on whether the driver had active insurance coverage through his superannuation account, particularly concerning the 'dangerous occupation exception.' - read more

AIA Australia Introduces Enhancements to Priority Protection Life Insurance

28 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

AIA Australia has announced significant updates to its Priority Protection life insurance suite, effective from 9 November 2025. These enhancements are designed to simplify discounts, improve policy clarity, and support premium affordability for policyholders. - read more

Decline in Life and Income Protection Insurance Premiums Benefits Australians

28 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent data indicates a notable decline in life and income protection insurance premiums across Australia, providing consumers with more affordable coverage options. According to the latest Direct Life Insurance Report from Rainmaker Information, direct life premiums have decreased by 7% since 2024. Similarly, direct income protection premiums have seen significant reductions, with average premiums for waiting periods of 30 days and 90 days decreasing by 12% and 13%, respectively. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Caravan Insurance Articles

The Hidden Factors That Influence Your Caravan Insurance Costs

Caravan insurance is a vital safeguard that protects your valuable investment from unforeseen incidents, whether at home or on the road. Understanding the dynamics of caravan insurance pricing is crucial for any caravan owner in Australia looking to get the most value from their policy while ensuring adequate coverage. - read more

Tips for Sustainable Caravanning: How to Tread Lightly on the Road

The allure of the open road and the freedom to explore has never been more inviting, or more necessary, to do so responsibly. Sustainable caravanning offers a way to embrace the joys of adventure while ensuring that the natural landscapes we cherish remain unspoiled for future explorers. But what exactly is sustainable caravanning? Essentially, it is the practice of minimizing our environmental impact while enjoying life on the road. - read more

Why Regular Caravan Servicing is Crucial for Insurance Claims

Caravanning has surged in popularity across Australia, offering a unique way to explore this vast and beautiful country. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip, it's crucial to understand the importance of regular caravan maintenance. - read more

Essential Caravan Maintenance: Protecting Your Home on Wheels

Welcome to your guide on Essential Caravan Maintenance: Protecting Your Home on Wheels. Like any home, your caravan is your sanctuary, a place of comfort and security as you travel and explore. However, it's crucial to remember that this rolling residence requires regular check-ups and tune-ups to ensure it remains a safe and reliable haven. - read more

Essential Guide to Insuring Your Converted Van or Bus in Australia

Owning a converted van or bus is a dream for many adventurous Australians. It offers freedom, mobility, and the chance to explore the great outdoors with the comfort of home on wheels. However, with this unique lifestyle comes specific responsibilities, one of which is ensuring your beloved vehicle is adequately insured. - read more

Knowledgebase

Insurable Interest:
A financial or other kind of interest in the insured item or person, necessary for a valid insurance contract.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.