Massive Fines Hit Rogue Builders Over Fake Insurance

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.

Investigations by the VBA revealed that Aycon Constructions had backed over 150 building permit applications with counterfeit domestic building insurance (DBI) records, performing building work without securing legitimate insurance policies. Builders in Victoria are legally obligated to obtain DBI for projects exceeding $16,000 to safeguard consumers and contractors alike.

The authority suspended Aycon’s operations in April after executing search warrants on multiple Melbourne sites, uncovering that the firm had been functioning without the essential DBI policies. The Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) substantiated these findings, indicating that Aycon had not only bypassed obtaining insurance for several projects but had also replicated VMIA’s logo for these false certificates.

In response to these egregious violations, Mr. Ayranci’s registration as a builder has been revoked, and he has been disqualified from the industry for three years - the maximum duration allowed under current legislation. The VBA classified Ayranci as “unfit and improper,” also stating that his actions epitomize unprofessional conduct.

Anna Cronin, Commissioner and CEO of the VBA, emphasized the regulator's unwavering stance against disreputable builders. "This unprecedented penalty exemplifies our commitment to using every tool in our regulatory arsenal to protect consumers from unethical practices and ensure compliance in the building industry," remarked Ms. Cronin. "We urge consumers always to verify their builder’s registration and confirm the presence of a valid DBI policy, which is a legal necessity."

The VBA continues to engage with affected clients of Aycon, having noted a "relatively small" yet concerning number of complaints filed in May. The agency seeks to support these customers as they navigate the repercussions of Aycon’s malpractice.

Published:Saturday, 20th Jul 2024
Author: Paige Estritori

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:

Insurance News

Clear

Australian Medical Association Advocates for Reforms in Private Health Insurance

19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has intensified its call for comprehensive reforms in the private health insurance sector, particularly in response to the recent 4.41% average premium increase effective from April 2026. This hike, the largest in nearly a decade, has raised concerns about the affordability and value of private health coverage for Australians. - read more

Australian Government Outlaws 'Product Phoenixing' in Health Insurance

19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has introduced legislation to prohibit the practice known as 'product phoenixing' within the private health insurance sector. This move aims to enhance transparency and fairness for consumers by preventing insurers from closing existing policies and reintroducing nearly identical ones at higher premiums. - read more

HCF and Netball Australia Strengthen Commitment to Women's Health

19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

HCF, Australia's largest not-for-profit health fund, has announced the extension of its major partnership with Netball Australia and Super Netball, continuing as the sport's official health insurance partner through to the end of 2027. This renewal underscores HCF's dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of Australian women by supporting netball at all levels-from grassroots participation to elite competition. - read more

Gold-Level Health Insurance Premiums to Surge by Up to 25% in 2026

19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent analysis by consumer advocacy group CHOICE has revealed that Australians holding gold-level health insurance policies may face premium increases of up to 25% starting in April 2026. This substantial hike significantly exceeds the average 4.41% increase approved by the government for private health insurance premiums. - read more

Instanda's AI Innovation: Transforming Commercial Underwriting

19 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Instanda, a leading provider of insurance technology solutions, has unveiled an artificial intelligence (AI) system designed to revolutionize commercial underwriting. This innovative system addresses the longstanding challenge of balancing speed and accuracy in the underwriting process, a critical aspect for consultants seeking efficient and reliable insurance coverage. - read more

Click for more Insurance News