Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Term Life Insurance Fuels Customer Grievances

Term Life Insurance Fuels Customer Grievances

Term Life Insurance Fuels Customer Grievances?w=400
New insights from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) highlight that term life insurance sparked the most grievances among consumers last financial year.
ASIC's newly released internal dispute resolution report indicates that 41% of the complaints were linked to term life policies.

According to the data, income protection and funeral plans trailed, accounting for 22% and 11% of customer dissatisfaction, respectively. A staggering total of 54,896 life insurance-related grievances were logged during the 2023-24 financial period, leading to over $11 million in compensatory actions being taken to address these issues.

A notable feature of the report is the efficiency with which these complaints were handled. Half of all life insurance grievances were settled within the same day they were reported, and 75% saw closure within just eight days. These statistics reflect the urgent nature with which life insurers are addressing customer concerns.

The primary concerns raised by consumers were categorized into service-related issues (29%), delays (13%), and premium disputes (10%). The emphasis on service issues underscores the importance for insurers to enhance customer interaction and mitigate operational delays.

Starting from October 5, 2021, financial services are mandated to document all grievances filed through their dispute resolution mechanisms. This data collection became a formal requirement at the outset of the current year, aimed at providing transparency and accountability within the financial sector.

According to ASIC, "As the first step in the financial dispute resolution framework, internal dispute resolution plays a vital role in providing remedies and protections for consumers. It is an avenue for redress to millions of Australians who complain to financial firms each year."

This report finds its origin from the comprehensive study at ASIC and serves as a stepping stone towards understanding how internal processes can be optimized for public benefit.

Published:Friday, 13th Dec 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

New Alliances for Restoration: RACQ Joins RIA Australasia New Alliances for Restoration: RACQ Joins RIA Australasia
24 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for the restoration industry in Australia, RACQ Insurance has become the latest insurer to align with the Restoration Industry Association (RIA) Australasia. This follows closely behind Suncorp's recent membership, highlighting a trend of increased insurer involvement in the sector. - read more
Building Resilience: ICA Aligns Floods Inquiry Plan Building Resilience: ICA Aligns Floods Inquiry Plan
19 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is strategically addressing the recommendations from recent inquiries into flood responses and code of practice in its latest updates. Acknowledging the variety and complexity of the suggestions, ICA supports 78 out of the total recommendations presented, tackling them in a staged and structured manner. - read more
Major Acquisitions Shake Up the Australian Life Insurance Sector Major Acquisitions Shake Up the Australian Life Insurance Sector
18 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

In a significant move estimated at $13 billion, MLC Life Insurance and Resolution Life’s subsidiaries in Australia and New Zealand are set to merge. This development is part of an acquisition involving Nippon Life, a major player in the global insurance industry. - read more
Sure Highlights Coverage Gaps in Cyclone Zones Sure Highlights Coverage Gaps in Cyclone Zones
17 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

An alarming gap in insurance coverage has been spotlighted by Queensland underwriting agency, Sure, as it drew attention to underinsurance among cyclone-susceptible areas. Their comparison of coverage across the state reveals stark contrasts that could have dire consequences for residents. - read more
Term Life Insurance Fuels Customer Grievances Term Life Insurance Fuels Customer Grievances
13 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

New insights from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) highlight that term life insurance sparked the most grievances among consumers last financial year. ASIC's newly released internal dispute resolution report indicates that 41% of the complaints were linked to term life policies. - read more


Insurance Articles

The Differences Between Public Liability and Professional Indemnity Insurance The Differences Between Public Liability and Professional Indemnity Insurance
In the dynamic world of commerce, Australian businesses face a plethora of risks daily. Business insurance serves as a safeguard, ensuring that the unforeseen does not hinder the stability and growth of an enterprise. Whether it’s a startup or a seasoned corporation, understanding and selecting the appropriate insurance coverage is crucial for resilience and longevity. - read more
Family Planning: Exploring Life Insurance Options for New Parents Family Planning: Exploring Life Insurance Options for New Parents
Stepping into parenthood comes with a myriad of responsibilities, one of which includes securing your family's financial future. Life insurance serves as a financial cornerstone for young professionals who are navigating the complexities of family planning. Recognizing the significance of the role insurance plays can empower new parents to make informed decisions that corroborate their family's safety and well-being. - read more
How to Make a Claim on Your Boat Insurance Policy in Australia How to Make a Claim on Your Boat Insurance Policy in Australia
Boat insurance claims are an important aspect of owning a boat, as accidents and damages can happen unexpectedly. It is essential to understand the boat insurance claim process in Australia, as it can be complex and overwhelming at times. - read more
Protecting Your Legacy: Estate Planning and Life Insurance for Australians Protecting Your Legacy: Estate Planning and Life Insurance for Australians
When thinking about the future, it's essential to have a comprehensive strategy that ensures the well-being of your loved ones and the security of your assets. Estate planning and life insurance are two critical pillars in safeguarding your family's financial stability. Despite the complexity often associated with these topics, understanding their importance and implementing them correctly can provide immense peace of mind. - read more
How to Compare Life Insurance Policies in Australia Without Overpaying How to Compare Life Insurance Policies in Australia Without Overpaying
Life insurance stands as a pillar of financial stability in the lives of many Australians, providing peace of mind and security for families and individuals facing the uncertainty of the future. The importance of life insurance cannot be overstated; it offers a safety net that serves to protect your loved ones in the event of a tragedy, ensuring their financial well-being during difficult times. - read more
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for Your Australian Adventure The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for Your Australian Adventure
Embarking on an Australian adventure can ignite excitement in the heart of any traveller, but being prepared for the unexpected should be top of mind. Travel insurance is an essential travel companion that safeguards your journey from unforeseeable circumstances. Whether confronting flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage, the right travel insurance policy can make a world of difference, offering peace of mind to fully immerse in the Aussie adventure experience. - read more
The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Life Insurance in Australia The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Life Insurance in Australia
Life insurance is a contract between an individual and an insurance company. The insurer promises to pay a designated beneficiary a sum of money upon the death of the insured person. - read more
Protecting Your Legacy: Estate Planning and Life Insurance for Australians Protecting Your Legacy: Estate Planning and Life Insurance for Australians
When thinking about the future, it's essential to have a comprehensive strategy that ensures the well-being of your loved ones and the security of your assets. Estate planning and life insurance are two critical pillars in safeguarding your family's financial stability. Despite the complexity often associated with these topics, understanding their importance and implementing them correctly can provide immense peace of mind. - read more
Unlocking the Best Business Insurance: A Guide for Aussie Entrepreneurs Unlocking the Best Business Insurance: A Guide for Aussie Entrepreneurs
Welcome to the guide designed to navigate Australian entrepreneurs through the intricate world of business insurance. In an era where risks are as diverse as they are frequent, choosing the right insurance is not just prudent—it's a critical element of sustaining and growing your enterprise. - read more
Boat Insurance: How a Specialist Broker Can Save You Time, Money, and Hassle Boat Insurance: How a Specialist Broker Can Save You Time, Money, and Hassle
Boating can be an enjoyable pastime, but it also comes with risks. From accidents to theft, unexpected events can take a toll on your finances and boat. This is where boat insurance comes in. Boat insurance provides financial protection in the case of accidents, theft, or other damage to your vessel. - read more



Knowledgebase
Liability Insurance:
A type of insurance that provides protection against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people and/or property.