Life Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Federal Court Dismisses Class Actions for COVID Business Interruption Claims

Federal Court Dismisses Class Actions for COVID Business Interruption Claims

Federal Court Dismisses Class Actions for COVID Business Interruption Claims?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.

The Federal Court has determined that business interruption claims related to COVID-19, involving four insurers, should not proceed as class actions.
This ruling obliges individual policyholders to pursue their cases separately if they wish to proceed.

Justice Michael Lee announced on Friday that proceedings are adjourned pending the issuance of "declassing orders," following arguments from insurers against group actions. Policyholders who had hoped to be part of the class actions will receive notices explaining their rights and options for individual claims.

The legal firms involved, including Gordon Legal and Slater & Gordon, had initiated cases against multiple insurers. Specifically, Gordon Legal filed on behalf of Cody Gemtec Retail t/as the National Opal Collection against Syndicate 2003 at Lloyd’s, and Strand Fitness and others against QBE. Slater & Gordon filed cases for CMC Hospitality against Insurance Australia, and Vicki Field Swim School against Hollard.

An IAG spokesperson welcomed the decision, urging customers with potential COVID-19-related business interruption claims to file those claims individually to facilitate efficient assessment through their standard process. The company also highlighted that a further case management hearing is anticipated and the appeal period remains active, promising updates "at the appropriate time."

James Naughton, a partner at Gordon Legal, told insuranceNEWS.com.au that individuals are encouraged to contact the firm to discuss their options for submitting individual claims against their insurers.

The court had previously ordered that policyholders be notified to register their interest in the proposed class actions, which garnered thousands of responses by a set deadline earlier this year.

  1. Cody Gemtec Retail t/as the National Opal Collection vs. Syndicate 2003 at Lloyd's
  2. Strand Fitness vs. QBE
  3. CMC Hospitality vs. Insurance Australia
  4. Vicki Field Swim School vs. Hollard

John Berrill, the principal of Berrill and Watson Lawyers, clarified that Friday's ruling addresses only the procedural aspect of how claims should be resolved-individual vs. class actions-without commenting on the validity of the claims. He emphasized the importance of policyholders understanding their rights and considering their options promptly since claims linked to the 2020 pandemic lockdowns are approaching the six-year statute of limitations for legal action.

Published:Tuesday, 24th Sep 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:

Rate this article

0 Comments

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

Insurance News

Fair Work Commission Enforces Fuel Cost Recovery Measures for Transport Operators
Fair Work Commission Enforces Fuel Cost Recovery Measures for Transport Operators
01 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has implemented a mandatory fuel cost recovery order, effective from 21 April 2026, to address the escalating fuel expenses burdening Australia's transport sector. This directive mandates that all parties within the road transport contract chain adjust their rates fortnightly or bi-monthly, ensuring that transport operators can recuperate the increased fuel costs incurred since 6 March 2026. - read more
Trucking Industry Seeks Immediate Support to Mitigate Fuel Price Impact
Trucking Industry Seeks Immediate Support to Mitigate Fuel Price Impact
01 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian trucking industry is facing unprecedented challenges as soaring fuel prices threaten the viability of many transport operators. Industry leaders are urgently calling for financial relief measures to prevent widespread business closures and maintain the integrity of the nation's supply chain. - read more
Regulatory Bodies Advocate for TPD Insurance Reforms Amid Mental Health Claim Surge
Regulatory Bodies Advocate for TPD Insurance Reforms Amid Mental Health Claim Surge
01 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
In a recent joint CEO roundtable, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) highlighted pressing concerns regarding Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance. The discussion centered on the escalating frequency and complexity of mental health-related claims, which are exerting significant pressure on both insurers and policyholders. - read more
Analyzing the 2026-27 Federal Budget's Impact on Australia's Insurance Industry
Analyzing the 2026-27 Federal Budget's Impact on Australia's Insurance Industry
01 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The 2026-27 Federal Budget, presented by Treasurer Jim Chalmers, introduces several measures with direct implications for Australia's insurance sector. Notably, the budget addresses concerns related to property insurance costs and the issue of underinsurance, both of which are critical for tradespeople and small business owners. - read more
Zurich's Acquisition of ClearView Wealth Receives ACCC Approval
Zurich's Acquisition of ClearView Wealth Receives ACCC Approval
01 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has granted approval for Zurich Financial Services to acquire ClearView Wealth, a transaction valued at approximately $425 million. This decision follows a comprehensive assessment of the potential impact on competition within the Australian life insurance market. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

Protecting Your Loved Ones: The Role of Life Insurance in Estate Planning
Protecting Your Loved Ones: The Role of Life Insurance in Estate Planning
Estate planning is a process that involves the management and distribution of an individual's assets and responsibilities in the event of their passing or incapacitation. It is an essential part of financial planning that ensures your assets are managed according to your desires and your loved ones are taken care of. - read more
Life Insurance Audit: Regular Check-Ups for Your Policy's Health
Life Insurance Audit: Regular Check-Ups for Your Policy's Health
Life insurance serves as a crucial safety net, guarding your loved ones against the unforeseen. Just as you would take care of your health through regular check-ups, it is equally important to ensure that your life insurance policy remains in sound condition to provide the necessary protection. - read more
Life Insurance for Entrepreneurs: Protecting Your Business and Family
Life Insurance for Entrepreneurs: Protecting Your Business and Family
Life insurance is a financial product designed to provide a safety net for your loved ones and business in the event of your passing. At its core, life insurance aims to deliver financial protection by paying out a lump sum or ongoing payments to a designated beneficiary upon the insured's death. - read more
How Much Life Insurance Do You Truly Need? Assessing Your Personal Coverage
How Much Life Insurance Do You Truly Need? Assessing Your Personal Coverage
There's often confusion surrounding the amount of life insurance one truly needs. Common misconceptions cloud our judgment, leading some to undervalue their coverage, while others may overinsure, unnecessarily straining their financial resources. It is a delicate balance to strike, and understanding the nuances of life insurance is pivotal to making informed decisions. - read more
Understanding Various Life Insurance Types: Which One is Right for You?
Understanding Various Life Insurance Types: Which One is Right for You?
Financial security is one of the most important aspects of modern family life. Ensuring that loved ones are protected and well-supported in the event of an untimely death is a fundamental concern for many Australians. - read more

Knowledgebase
Insurance Deductible:
That part of an insurance claim that must be paid by an insured person before the the balance is paid by the insurer.