Business Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

AFCA finds MLC failed to give proper notice of rate increases

AFCA finds MLC failed to give proper notice of rate increases

AFCA finds MLC failed to give proper notice of rate increases?w=400

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 dispute ruling against MLC, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) found that the company did not give adequate notice when it raised the critical illness premiums of a policyholder.

The complainant disputed the changes to his policy, saying he was misled about how the increases tied to annual rises in benefits would work. MLC also made underlying premium rate increases and the complainant says that he was misled into believing those would not happen.

The AFCA found that MLC did not mislead the customer but determined that it should have warned him about premium increases in accordance with its policy terms and Australian law..

But the ombudsman determined that MLC had not notified him of the change to premiums in 2014, 2015 or 2016 in accordance with its policy terms or under the Corporations Act.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority has found that the insurer did not give notice of a change in premium rates and as such, it was not entitled to make these changes. The complainant is to have his premiums returned for the years 2014-2016.

Published:Thursday, 19th May 2022
Author:

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:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

IAG Resolves $4 Billion Greensill Lawsuit
IAG Resolves $4 Billion Greensill Lawsuit
17 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has reached a confidential settlement in the $4 billion lawsuit initiated by Greensill Bank AG and its insolvency administrator. This legal action stemmed from disputes over insurance coverage related to Greensill's financial products. - read more
Decline in Market Share for Australian Insurers' Business Packages
Decline in Market Share for Australian Insurers' Business Packages
17 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
A recent analysis by Macquarie has revealed a significant decline in the domestic business package market share held by Australian insurers, dropping to approximately 48% in the fiscal year 2025 from nearly 67% a decade ago. - read more
ACCC Halts IAG's Bid to Acquire RAC WA's Insurance Arm
ACCC Halts IAG's Bid to Acquire RAC WA's Insurance Arm
10 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently opposed the proposed acquisition of RAC WA's insurance operations by Insurance Australia Group (IAG). This decision stems from concerns that the merger would significantly reduce competition within Western Australia's insurance sector, potentially leading to higher premiums and diminished service quality for consumers. - read more
BizCover and Zurich Collaborate to Enhance Professional Indemnity Insurance for SMEs
BizCover and Zurich Collaborate to Enhance Professional Indemnity Insurance for SMEs
10 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
BizCover, an online business insurance platform, has expanded its professional indemnity (PI) insurance offerings through a new distribution agreement with Zurich Australia. This partnership enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with annual revenues under $7.5 million to access Zurich's PI insurance directly via the BizCover website, with coverage limits of up to $10 million. - read more
Zurich Introduces AI-Powered Cyber Insurance Solution for Australian Businesses
Zurich Introduces AI-Powered Cyber Insurance Solution for Australian Businesses
03 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
Zurich Financial Services Australia has unveiled 'Prime One', a cutting-edge cyber insurance product designed to bolster the digital resilience of Australian businesses. Developed in partnership with Cowbell, a specialist in adaptive cyber and specialty insurance solutions, 'Prime One' leverages artificial intelligence to streamline the underwriting process, offering rapid and tailored coverage. - read more
Insuring your most valuable asset
Image for Insuring your most valuable assetWhile many people would consider their home or their car to be their most valuable asset, it's your ability to earn an income that is most important in shaping your financial future. Statistically, two thirds of working Australians will suffer an injury or illness that will sideline them for 90 days or more. The majority of these people would not be able to pay their mortgage or meet car finance and other loan commitments without adequate income insurance.


Business Insurance Articles

Essential Tips to Reduce Your Business Insurance Premiums in Australia
Essential Tips to Reduce Your Business Insurance Premiums in Australia
As a business owner in Australia, protecting your venture with adequate insurance is a non-negotiable aspect of risk management. The right business insurance acts as a safety net, guarding against unforeseen events that could otherwise derail your hard-earned progress. However, it's not uncommon for insurance premiums to dig deep into your cash reserves, challenging the balance between protection and profitability. - read more
Must-Have Insurance Policies for Australian SMEs in 2025
Must-Have Insurance Policies for Australian SMEs in 2025
In today's rapidly evolving business environment, insurance has become an essential component for the survival and success of small to medium enterprises (SMEs). As businesses navigate through uncertainties, unexpected events can pose significant threats. Insurance not only provides a safety net but also conveys a sense of stability and trust to partners and customers. - read more
How to Customize Your Business Insurance to Fit Your Company’s Needs
How to Customize Your Business Insurance to Fit Your Company’s Needs
Business insurance is a type of coverage that protects your company from financial losses that may occur during regular operations. These losses could be due to a variety of risks like property damage, legal liability, or employee-related incidents. - read more
Essential Insurance Coverages You Need to Protect Your Small Business
Essential Insurance Coverages You Need to Protect Your Small Business
Insurance is a vital component for any small business. It acts as a safety net, helping to protect your enterprise from unexpected financial losses. Whether you run a retail shop, a consultancy, or a manufacturing unit, having the right insurance coverages can make the difference between thriving and merely surviving. - read more
5 Common Insurance Mistakes Startups Make and How to Avoid Them
5 Common Insurance Mistakes Startups Make and How to Avoid Them
Starting a new business is an exciting and challenging endeavor, particularly in the vibrant and innovative startup landscape of Australia. However, amidst the rush of ideas and the race to launch, many startups overlook the crucial aspect of insurance. Insurance is not merely an additional cost but a vital protective measure that safeguards your emerging business against unforeseen hurdles. - read more

Knowledgebase
Loss of Use:
Insurance coverage that pays for the additional living expenses if your home is uninhabitable due to a covered loss.