AFCA finds MLC failed to give proper notice of rate increases

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.

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
Source:

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Allianz Partners Highlights the Risks of Travelling Uninsured

14 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent research commissioned by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's (DFAT) Smartraveller program has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travellers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted Allianz Partners to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before travelling abroad. - read more

Surge in Medical Claims Among Australian Travellers Highlights Importance of Comprehensive Insurance

14 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In 2024, medical incidents emerged as the leading cause of travel insurance claims among Australian travellers, accounting for more than 40% of all claims handled by nib Travel. This trend underscores the critical importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance to mitigate the financial risks associated with medical emergencies abroad. - read more

Rising Travel Insurance Claims Among Australians Visiting Bali

14 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The allure of Bali continues to captivate Australian travellers, with a notable 43% increase in travel insurance policies purchased for the destination since the 2022/23 summer season. This surge has corresponded with a 50% rise in related insurance claims, now accounting for 16% of all claims submitted to Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) in 2024. - read more

QBE Insurance Faces Market Challenges with Slower Premium Growth

14 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

QBE Insurance Group, Australia's largest insurer by market value, recently experienced a significant decline in its share price, reaching a seven-month low. This downturn is primarily attributed to a slowdown in the company's premium rate growth during the third quarter of 2025. - read more

Australian Insurers Achieve Record Profits Amid Rising Premiums

14 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's insurance industry has reported an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion for the year 2024, a figure that is three times higher than the five-year average of $2 billion. This substantial increase is attributed to significant premium hikes and a relatively benign year for natural disasters. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Insuring your most valuable asset

While 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.

... compare rates & options ...