AFCA Rules Against Engine Theft Coverage in Motor Policy Dispute
AFCA Rules Against Engine Theft Coverage in Motor Policy Dispute
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.
An applicant's attempt to claim insurance coverage after the theft of an engine designated for his 1993 Nissan Skyline has been denied.
Despite holding a comprehensive motor policy with IAG, the insured's claim was rejected after multiple engines were stolen in a brazen ram-raid at his vehicle repairer's workshop in November 2023, prompting an appeal to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).
The crux of the AFCA's ruling rested on the lack of evidence indicating the claimant's ownership of the engine, thereby negating any financial loss acknowledged under the policy. According to an AFCA ombudsman, even if ownership was established, the engine's status-intended but not installed-did not align with the policy’s definitions of 'vehicle' or 'modifications.'
Furthermore, the complainant had not opted for an additional policy benefit that could extend the cover to spare parts awaiting assembly into the insured vehicle. As a result, the claim for engine theft remains outside the current policy's provisions.
The insured also sought assistance from IAG to recover costs from the repairer, a request AFCA deemed inappropriate, emphasizing that issues pertaining to the repairer fell outside the scope of his insurance contract. This path remains a private matter between the claimant and the repairer involved.
This case highlights the critical importance for policyholders to thoroughly understand the intricacies and limitations of their insurance policies, particularly regarding coverage for vehicle components not yet integrated into the car. It demonstrates the necessity for explicit policy terms and the potential need for additional cover options to protect significant investments like spare parts.
The decision may prompt individual insurers and the wider insurance market to reassess coverage options related to spare parts and modifications to align with consumer expectations and reduce disputes. Policyholders are advised to consult their insurers to ensure adequate coverage, especially when dealing with valuable customizations or restorations. This incident serves as a valuable reminder to scrutinize insurance policies closely and engage with insurers proactively to clarify available coverage options.
In the final quarter of 2025, Australian commercial insurance rates experienced a substantial decline of 12%, marking the most significant drop among the eight regions monitored by Marsh Risk's Global Insurance Market Index. This trend reflects a broader pattern of decreasing rates that began in early 2024, with the Pacific region, predominantly Australia, leading the way. - read more
The National Truck Accident Research Centre's 2025 Major Incident Investigation Report, supported by NTI, has identified human error as the predominant cause of major truck crashes in Australia. The report indicates that factors such as inattention, distraction, and inappropriate speed account for a significant proportion of these incidents. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated a comprehensive review into the accuracy and transparency of motor insurance pricing among major insurers, covering approximately two-thirds of the car insurance market. This investigation aims to ensure that insurers comply with legal disclosure requirements and provide clear explanations for premium calculations. - read more
AIA Australia has recently updated its Priority Protection life insurance suite, introducing changes designed to simplify discounts, enhance policy clarity, and support premium affordability. These enhancements, effective from 9 November 2025, reflect AIA's commitment to providing value-driven solutions for policyholders. - read more
Recent findings from a survey conducted by Zurich and the University of Oxford reveal that Australia has one of the lowest life insurance penetration rates globally. The study indicates that only 27% of Australians have income protection insurance, and 25% possess life insurance coverage. These figures are notably lower than the global averages of 33% for income protection and 32% for life insurance. - read more
Setting off on a caravan trip is an exciting adventure, but before you hit the open road, it's essential to ensure your caravan is in top-notch condition. Performing pre-trip checks can make the difference between a memorable journey and a disastrous one. - read more
Caravanning has seen a rise in popularity across Australia, with many discovering the joys of hitting the open road and exploring the vast landscapes that the country has to offer. From coastal trips to inland adventures, caravanning provides the flexibility and freedom that many travelers are seeking. - read more
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
Embarking on a journey with your caravan is an incomparable experience, offering a unique blend of adventure, freedom, and the comfort of a home on wheels. However, it’s essential to recognize that just like any significant investment, your caravan needs to be protected. That's where choosing the right caravan insurance becomes not just a consideration, but a necessity. - read more
Knowledgebase
Surrender Value: The amount of money an insurance policyholder will receive if they voluntarily terminate the policy before it matures.