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Business Insurance Liability Insurance

Cyber Insurance vs Motor Insurance: Protecting Assets You Can’t Afford to Lose

Most people wouldn’t dream of driving their car without insurance. Even though you hope never to have an accident, you know that if something does go wrong, the financial impact could be devastating.

Yet when it comes to cyber insurance, many businesses hesitate. They think cyber incidents are unlikely, or that basic IT protections are enough. But the truth is, cyber insurance works in much the same way as motor insurance: you don’t know when a claim will happen, but you insure the asset anyway.

The asset you are protecting

  • Motor Insurance: Covers your car, a valuable, tangible asset you rely on daily.
  • Cyber Insurance: Covers your business’s data, systems, and online operations, intangible assets that are often worth far more than a vehicle.

For many businesses, digital assets (client records, intellectual property, financial systems) are the backbone of operations. Losing access to them can be more disruptive than losing a company car.

The unpredictable nature of claims

Accidents on the road and cyber incidents have one thing in common: you can’t predict when they’ll happen.

  • A car accident can happen due to another driver’s mistake, bad weather, or mechanical failure.
  • A cyber incident can happen due to phishing, ransomware, or even a simple employee error.

Both risks are outside your complete control. That’s why insurance exists to transfer that unpredictable risk into something manageable.

The cost of not being insured

  • Motor accident without insurance: You could be liable for repair costs, injury compensation, or even replacement of your vehicle.
  • Cyber incident without insurance: You could face data recovery costs, legal obligations under privacy law, lost income during downtime, ransom payments, and reputational damage.

In both cases, a single event can cost tens of thousands or more.

How insurance responds

  • Motor Insurance: Pays for repairs or replacement of your vehicle, covers third-party liability, and gets you back on the road.
  • Cyber Insurance: Pays for IT forensics, legal advice, regulatory fines, business interruption, extortion costs, and crisis communications to get you back in business.

Both are designed to protect you financially and practically when something goes wrong.

Why businesses hesitate on cyber insurance

Unlike cars, digital assets aren’t parked in a driveway where you can see the risk. Cyber risks feel less visible until they strike. That’s why many business owners underestimate their exposure. But just as you wouldn’t risk driving uninsured, it doesn’t make sense to operate digitally without cyber cover.

Checklist-insurance-for-new-businesses-in-Australia

A broker would know

Choosing the right cover matters. Policies vary widely, especially with cyber insurance. A broker would know how to:

  • Assess your cyber risk profile
  • Compare policy wording and exclusions
  • Ensure you’re covered for the risks that matter most to your business
  • Support you during a claim so you’re not left navigating it alone

The bottom line

You don’t buy motor insurance because you know you’ll crash, you buy it because you can’t afford not to have it if something happens.

Cyber insurance is exactly the same. You don’t know when a cyber-attack will occur, but you do know your business can’t run without its digital assets. So, if you insure your car without question, why wouldn’t you insure your business’s most valuable asset? Because when it comes to protecting both the seen and unseen, a broker would know the right cover for you.

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Business Cyber Insurance Insurance

Cyber insurance for Small Businesses: Why Hackers Still Target You

As a small business owner, you might have wondered, ‘Why would cyber criminals target me?’ The truth is, the misconception that hackers only target big corporations is what makes small businesses like yours prime targets for cyberattacks. Your size doesn’t make you immune; it makes you vulnerable.

Hackers often see small businesses as easier targets because they may have fewer cybersecurity resources, outdated systems, or less formal security processes in place. They may not invest as much in cybersecurity features, or they don’t practice it diligently enough. That is why cyber insurance is an important consideration, no matter the size of your operation. And why, when it comes to risk management, the smartest move is simple. Seek professional help because a broker would know.

Why do hackers target small businesses?

Small and medium-sized businesses are the most frequent targets of cyberattacks. Information like credit card details, employee records, and client emails can be just as valuable as a corporate database. And compared to big corporations, small and medium businesses are also easier targets. Here’s why:

  1. Easier defences to break – Large corporations invest heavily in cybersecurity. Small businesses often lack the same resources, which makes them easier targets.
  2. Valuable data, no matter the size – Even a small consultancy, café, or trades business stores credit card numbers, employee records, or client emails. To hackers, that’s just as valuable as a corporate database.
  3. Automated attacks don’t discriminate – Hackers may use bots that scan thousands of sites simultaneously, looking for weak passwords, outdated plugins, or unpatched software. These aren’t choosing you personally, they’re simply looking for an easy way in.
  4. Gateway to bigger fish – Sometimes a small business is the back door into larger partners or suppliers. Hackers typically breach the security of small players, collecting data they can use to move upstream and compromise the security of other members of the supply chain.

How can cyberattacks impact small businesses?

Dealing with cyberattacks is stressful enough, but the aftermath can be devastating. And for many small businesses, the chances of recovery are slim. Common consequences include:

  • Ransomware – Hackers encrypt your systems and may threaten to release private information in exchange for a substantial payout.
  • Phishing scams – The information may be used to send fraudulent emails to staff, tricking them into transferring money.
  • Data breaches – Your customer or employee details may be exposed, leading to fines or lawsuits.
  • Reputation damage – Clients may lose trust instantly, which can harm long-term relationships.

Studies show many small businesses never recover financially from a significant cyber incident. And believing you’re “too small” is precisely what makes you a target. Think of it like leaving your shop unlocked because you assume no one would bother stealing.

Cyber criminals thrive on having targets adopt this mindset. However, the truth is that they’re not always looking at the size of the business. They are opportunists whose goal is to exploit your vulnerability.

Hackers target small businesses as a gateway to bigger corporations in the supply chain

How can cyber insurance protect you?

No business is 100% secure, even with strong Information Technology (IT) support. Cyber insurance provides a practical safety net designed to help your business recover in the event of a data breach. Policies typically cover:

  • Incident response – IT forensic experts, legal advice, and crisis Press Relations.
  • Business interruption – compensation for lost revenue when systems are down.
  • Cyber extortion – ransom payments and negotiation support.
  • Third-party liability – legal defence and damages if clients or regulators take action.

A single attack could wipe out years of hard work, which is why cyber insurance is crucial for keeping your business protected.

Why work with a broker to secure your insurance?

Not all cyber insurance policies are equal. They can vary in terms of the coverage they offer, exclusions, and conditions. Some may exclude certain types of attacks or limit payouts. And when the fine print can make or break your cover, it’s important to have professional help in reading through it. A broker would know:

  • How to assess the specific risks for your business and industry, helping tailor coverage that would work for you
  • How to identify hidden gaps or exclusions in a policy that can leave your business exposed
  • How to negotiate with insurers to get a deal that fits your needs and works with your budget
  • How to fight for a beneficial outcome when it comes to making a claim

Attempting to navigate the complexities of cyber insurance alone is risky. With a broker, you’re guided by expertise every step of the way, providing you with the reassurance and guidance you need.

Every business needs cyber insurance

Cyber criminals don’t care if you’re a one-person consultancy, a café owner, a growing trades business, or any other small business. If you’re online, you’re a potential target. That’s why cyber insurance is no longer just for big companies. Small businesses are discovering just how relevant and valuable it is.

So, the next time you wonder why hackers would bother with a small business like yours, remember this: they already are. The real question is, will you be ready?

And when it comes to knowing what cover you need, what policy exclusions mean, and how to protect your livelihood? A broker would know. Learn more about cyber insurance today. Reach out to our team of brokers at East West Insurance Brokers.

Categories
Business Insurance Insurance Insights

Could Changing Your Insurance Renewal Date Benefit Your Business?

If your business insurance renews in June, you may already know it can be a busy time for the insurance industry.

Many businesses choose June renewals because they align with the end of the financial year. However, this also means insurers are reviewing a high number of policies at the same time.

Moving your renewal away from this busy period may have some benefits, including:

1. More time for Insurers to assess your business

A quieter renewal period may give insurers more time to understand your business, assess your risks and consider the terms they can offer.

This can be especially helpful if your business has changed, your risks are more complex or your policy needs a more detailed review.

2. More opportunity for us to negotiate

Having more time can also give us greater opportunity to speak with underwriters, explore alternative markets and negotiate premiums and policy conditions on your behalf.

It allows us to thoroughly consider the options available and work with insurers to find the right solution for your business.

You May Be Able to Change Your Renewal Date

Many business owners with a June renewal assume they need to renew in June every year. In some cases, that’s not necessarily the case.

Depending on your insurer and policy, we may be able to arrange a one-off policy term of 8 to 16 months.

This could move your next renewal to a different time of year.

For example, if your policy currently renews in June, we may be able to extend the policy term so your next renewal falls later in the year, outside the industry’s peak renewal period.

Is It Worth Asking?

Changing your renewal date won’t suit every business.

We’ll look at your circumstances, see whether it’s an option and explain what may work best for you.

Planning ahead could give insurers more time to assess your business and give us more opportunity to negotiate the right cover and terms on your behalf.

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Business Claims Insurance Insurance Insights

The Most Common Mistakes Businesses Make When Making an Insurance Claim

We know when something goes wrong, making an insurance claim can feel like one extra hassle.

As a business owner we also know your priority is usually getting things back to normal or continuing to run with as little disruption as possible.

However, what you do after an incident can affect how smoothly your claim is handled.

As your insurance advisor, we are here to help guide you through the claims process. Here are five of the most common mistakes that can make a claim more difficult.

1. Waiting too long to notify us

One of the most common mistakes we see is waiting too long to report an incident.

You may think the damage is minor or you want to look into all details of what happened before contacting us.

However, it is best to let us know as soon as possible.

Early notification gives us the chance to understand what has happened and help you take the right steps.

Your policy may also have rules about when and how you need to report a claim.

Our advice: If something happens that could lead to a claim, contact us as soon as possible. Even if you are unsure whether you want to make a claim, we can help you understand your options.

2. Not keeping evidence

Good records can make a big difference during a claim.

Where it is safe to do so, take photos and videos of the damage. Keep receipts, invoices, repair quotes and other records linked to the incident.

It is also useful to keep emails and other messages about the incident. This may include conversations with contractors, suppliers or other people involved.

The more information we have, the easier it can be to understand what happened and assess the loss.

Our advice: Keep records of the incident, the damage and any costs. Don’t rely on memory alone.

3. Starting repairs too soon

We understand that when your business is damaged, you want to fix the problem straight away.

In some cases, urgent action is needed to make the area safe or stop the damage from getting worse.

However, starting non-urgent repairs before speaking with us may make it harder to assess the damage. The insurer may need to inspect the property or arrange an assessment before repairs begin.

Our advice: Contact us before starting non-urgent repairs. If urgent work is needed, take photos first where it is safe to do so and keep records of the work and costs.

Damaged business property being assessed before repair work begins following an insurance claim.

4. Assuming something is covered

It is easy to think that if you have insurance, your loss must be covered.

But insurance policies can be complex. They can include different terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and excesses.

Cover can also depend on what happened and how the loss occurred.

Rather than making assumptions, talk to us about your policy and the situation. We can help explain what your cover may respond to and what steps you should take next.

Our advice: Don’t guess. If you are unsure whether something is covered, ask us before making decisions.

5. Not understanding your excess

Your excess is the amount you may need to pay towards a claim.

The amount can vary depending on your policy and the type of claim. Some policies may also have different excesses for certain events.

Knowing your excess before you need to make a claim can help you understand the possible cost to your business.

Our advice: Make sure you know what excesses apply to your policies. If you are unsure, we’re happy to explain them.

What should you do if something goes wrong?

EvEvery claim is different, but there are some simple steps you can take.

  1. Make the area safe. Put the safety of your employees, customers and others first.
  2. Prevent further damage. Take reasonable steps to protect your property where it is safe to do so.
  3. Document the incident. Take photos and videos and write down what happened.
  4. Contact us. Let your broker know as soon as possible.
  5. Keep your records. Save invoices, receipts, quotes and other documents.

Importantly we are here to help, ask questions. If you are unsure what to do, speak with us before taking action.

Knowing what to do after an incident can help make the insurance claims process smoother.

The best time to review your insurance is before a claim

A claim can highlight whether your insurance still matches your business needs.

Your business may have changed since your policy was first arranged. You may have bought new equipment, increased your stock, moved premises, hired more employees or changed how you operate.

That’s why regular insurance reviews are important.

At East West Insurance Brokers, we work with you to understand your business and help you make informed decisions about your insurance.

If your business has changed, speak with your broker. We can review your cover and help make sure it still suits your needs.

Because the best time to find a gap in your insurance is before you need to make a claim.

Categories
Business Insurance Insurance Insights

Could Your Business Interruption Insurance Help If Another Business Is Impacted?

Most business owners think Business Interruption insurance only covers damage to their own premises.

But when we review a client’s cover, we look at more than their own business.

We also consider the businesses they rely on, such as suppliers, customers and storage providers.

If one of these businesses is affected, it could also disrupt your business and reduce your income.

This is where Contingent Business Interruption cover can help.

How Can Contingent Business Interruption Cover Help?

Your business does not need to be directly damaged to suffer a loss.

If a business you rely on is affected, it could cause delays, lower sales or lost income.

When we review Business Interruption cover with our clients, these are some of the key areas we encourage them to think about.

1. Your Suppliers or Manufacturers

Many businesses rely on suppliers for products, materials or equipment.

But what would happen if one of your key suppliers could no longer deliver?

If their premises are damaged, it could delay your business and affect your income.

For example:

  • A dressmaker cannot source fabric after a supplier’s warehouse is damaged by fire.
  • A café cannot receive deliveries after a bakery supplier is damaged by a storm.
  • A construction company faces delays after a supplier’s factory is damaged by fire.

Depending on your policy, Contingent Business Interruption insurance may help cover the financial impact.

This is something we recommend considering if your business relies heavily on a small number of suppliers.

Contingent Business Interruption Cover

2. Your Customers

Sometimes, the disruption can come from the other side of your business; your customers.

If a major customer is affected by an insured event, they may not be able to operate as normal. They may reduce or stop buying your products or services.

For example, imagine you supply products to a restaurant that is damaged by a storm and needs to close for repairs.

While the restaurant is closed, they may not be able to purchase from you. If they are a major customer, this could have a real impact on your income.

If your business relies on a small number of key customers, Contingent Business Interruption cover may help protect your income.

3. Third-Party Storage Facilities

We also see businesses storing stock at warehouses or storage facilities they do not own.

If that location is damaged, it could delay orders and affect your ability to trade.

Your policy may provide protection if the storage facility belongs to another business.

However, we also recommend checking that any stock stored at third-party locations is properly insured.

Two Important Things to Know

Contingent Business Interruption cover can provide valuable protection, but there are some important limits to understand.

1. The Damage Must Be Covered

For your claim to be covered, the damage will usually need to be something your Property Damage insurance would cover.

For example, your supplier’s warehouse is damaged by flood, but your Property Damage policy does not include flood cover.

In this situation, your Business Interruption claim may not be covered.

This is why we always encourage our clients to look at their Property Damage and Business Interruption insurance together. The two covers can work closely together when a claim occurs.

2. Your Claim May Be Limited to 20%

Many insurers place limits on claims involving suppliers, customers or storage facilities that are not specifically listed on your policy.

A common limit is 20% of your Business Interruption Sum Insured, although this can vary between insurers and policies.

For example, if your Business Interruption Sum Insured is $500,000, your claim for an unnamed supplier, customer or storage facility may be limited to $100,000.

For a business that relies heavily on one key supplier or customer, that limit may not be enough.

When we review your policy, we can help you understand these limits and whether they provide enough protection for your business.

Is Your Insurance Keeping Up With Your Business?

Your business does not stay the same forever.

You may work with new suppliers, gain bigger customers, hold more stock or change the way you operate.

That is why we recommend reviewing your insurance regularly.

We encourage you to ask yourself:

  • What would happen if my main supplier stopped operating?
  • What if my biggest customer could no longer trade?
  • Could my business continue if my stock was damaged at another location?
  • How long could I continue operating if a key business partner was affected?

If the answers raise some concerns, it may be time to review your cover.

As your broker, we can help you understand your policy, explain any limits and look at whether your current cover still meets your needs.

A quick conversation with us today could help you identify a gap before you need to make a claim.

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Business Insurance Insights Meet Our Clients

Meet Chantelle Rogers, Co-Owner of Rogers Transport.

At 19 years old, Chantelle Rogers joined her family’s transport business without knowing where it would take her.

Eighteen years later, she is helping lead the company alongside her brother.

But becoming a business leader was never part of a carefully planned career path. In fact, transport wasn’t even her first choice.

Chantelle had a passion for scuba and was close to completing her training as a diving instructor when her asthma brought that dream to an unexpected end.

With scuba diving no longer an option, Chantelle tried a few different jobs, before making the decision to join her family’s business.

That decision would shape the course of her career.

Starting from the ground up

Rogers Transport was founded by Chantelle’s parents, Gary and Val Rogers, with just one truck before growing into a company with 60 trucks; providing transport, logistics and warehousing services across Australia.

But Chantelle didn’t walk into a leadership role. She started in administration and worked her way into accounts and the warehouse before moving into operations. With every new role, she learned more about the business and the people who kept it moving.

Over the course of 18 years, Chantelle built her skills, gained experience and developed a deep understanding of the business her father had created.

In 2022 Gary stepped back from the day-to-day running of the business and handed the reins of leadership to Chantelle and her brother, Brad.

After years of working at Rogers Transport, she was now trusted to help lead and grow the business.

The biggest challenge? Building the right team

One lesson Chantelle has learned as a leader is that you can’t grow a business by trying to do everything yourself.

Delegation is an important part of leadership, but finding the right people is about more than simply finding someone who can do the job.

In the transport industry, there are many moving parts that need to work together. Having the right people in the right roles helps keep the business running smoothly, while finding people who align with the company culture and work well with the wider team creates a stronger foundation for growth.

Over the past years, Chantelle has built a strong and supportive team around her and she’s excited to continue growing it with people she can trust to help keep the business moving forward.

Then there’s motherhood

Just as Chantelle was finding her feet in her new leadership position, she took on another life-changing role: Mum.

Today, she is a mother to a busy two-year-old while also growing a transport business.

And if there is one thing she wants other women to know: Balancing motherhood with running a business is hard. Really hard.

There isn’t always a clear line between being a mum and being a business owner. Some days, Chantelle is focused on the business. Other days, motherhood comes first. And on many days, she is doing both at once.

Her schedule can change quickly. Plans need to move. And there isn’t always much time to stop and catch her breath.

But Chantelle wouldn’t have it any other way.

She genuinely cares about both her family and the business. She is passionate about what she does and wants to see the company continue to grow.

It’s a lot to juggle, but it’s a challenge she is willing to take on.

Making it work takes a village

For Chantelle, having a strong support network isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

Her advice to other women, particularly mums considering leadership, is simple: be prepared and surround yourself with people who support and understand you.

At work, Chantelle has her father, Gary, and their COO, Josh to turn to for guidance, advice and a fresh perspective when she needs to talk through an idea or decision.

At home, she has a supportive husband who understands that work sometimes extends into evenings and weekends, with both sharing the demands of family life.

For Chantelle, success isn’t about doing everything yourself. It’s about having the right people around you to help keep you moving forward.

And with so much of her life centred around work and family, she’s also learned the importance of making time for herself.

For Chantelle, that’s baking, a creative outlet that helps her switch off, reset and recharge. Whether it’s decorating a cake for a family celebration or baking late at night after work, it’s a small but meaningful part of her life.

Building what comes next

Rogers Transport has already faced its share of challenges, including losing 11 trucks in the 2011 floods and 30 trucks in the 2022 floods.

Despite these setbacks, the business has continued to grow.

Now, Chantelle is looking ahead to the future. She is excited to carry on her father’s legacy and grow the company that all started from a single truck…

Connect with Rogers Transport

P: 07 3275 3664
E: he***@****************om.au

Categories
Business Cyber Insurance Insurance Insurance Insights

Why Brokers Need Your Details (And Why It Matters More Than Ever)

Insurers have significantly tightened their underwriting over the past 12 – 18 months, and the level of data required before quoting has increased acrosss the board.

What’s changed?

Insurers are now scrutinising risk information far more closely than they used to. Where a brief overview may have been enough in the past, underwriters today want specifics: detailed claims histories, updated asset values, current risk management practices, workforce numbers, and revenue breakdowns. We are essentially asking for the works.

It’s not about being difficult. It’s about insurers protecting their books in a tougher market.

And here’s the reality: incomplete or vague information leads to higher premiums, coverage restrictions, or declined quotes.

Why we’re asking (again)

We know it can feel repetitive. You provided this information last year, and your business hasn’t changed significantly. Why do we need it all over again?

Because insurers treat every renewal as a fresh underwriting exercise. They’re reassessing your risk profile based on current information, not last year’s data. If we don’t provide comprehensive, accurate details upfront, we lose negotiation power, and potentially you may lose more as a result.

What good information gets you:

  • Sharper pricing – Underwriters price what they understand. The clearer the picture, the tighter the premium.
  • Broader coverage – Detailed risk information helps us argue for better terms, higher limits, and fewer exclusions.
  • Faster turnaround – Complete submissions avoid the back-and-forth that delays quotes and eats into your renewal timeline.
  • More options – Insurers are more willing to quote and complete when they have confidence in the information.

Our commitment to you

We are not asking for details to tick boxes. We’re asking to secure the best possible outcome for your business. Every data point you provide gives us leverage to negotiate on your behalf, and in this market, that leverage matters.

We also get that you’re busy. If there’s a way we can make the renewal process easier by pre-filling forms, scheduling a quick call instead of lengthy emails, or consolidating requests, please let us know. We’re here to make this work for you, not add to your workload.

What this means for your business

The more detail we have, the harder we can push for competitive terms. It might feel like extra effort now, but it translates directly into better cover and better value when renewal time comes.

As always, if you’ve got questions about what we’re asking for (or why), we’re happy to walk you through it.

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Business Insurance Insights Meet Our Clients

Meet Martin Turner, Owner of The Turner Group (TTG) Recruitment

For Martin Turner, recruitment has never been just about filling roles. It’s about helping people find opportunity, guiding careers, and building connections that can genuinely change lives.

As one of the founders of TTG, Martin has spent more than three decades helping businesses find the right people and supporting individuals to step into roles where they can thrive.

Along the way, he’s navigated economic downturns, industry challenges, and delivered some of Australia’s largest recruitment projects.

His journey into business wasn’t part of a grand plan. After building a career in human resources and recruitment consultancy, Martin and a group of colleagues saw an opportunity to do things differently.

In 1991, four founders took a leap of faith and launched TTG. More than 30 years later, that decision has grown into a trusted recruitment business that has helped thousands of people and organisations find the right fit.

Riding out the storms

Like many long-standing businesses, TTG has weathered its share of challenges.

From the Global Financial Crisis to COVID-19, there were times when hiring slowed, projects paused, and confidence in the market dropped. As Martin explains, recruitment is closely linked to business activity. When clients slow down, hiring slows too. When confidence returns, recruitment picks up again.

One constant challenge throughout the years has been cash flow, particularly when working with large organisations that come with complex processes and longer payment cycles.

Despite this, Martin credits the team’s resilience and adaptability for the business’s continued growth.

A project close to home

While TTG has partnered with major organisations across Australia, one project stands out.

When Brisbane’s public transport network changed from Go Card to contactless payments, Translink asked TTG to help with the rollout. The team was tasked with recruiting 140 employees for a large customer engagement campaign.

For a relatively small team, it was a major undertaking. They interviewed hundreds of candidates, onboarded successful applicants, coordinated training programs, and provided ongoing performance management throughout the project.

What began as a single recruitment assignment grew into a trusted three-year partnership, a clear reflection of the team’s ability to deliver great results.

Helping people find their place

While large projects are rewarding, what keeps Martin motivated is simple: helping people find work they truly enjoy.

Many young professionals come to him unsure of what they want to do. Sometimes, they only know what they don’t want.

Martin enjoys helping them discover opportunities they may not have thought about and guiding them towards careers that suit their skills, goals, and personality.

For him, helping people build a career they love is the most rewarding part of the job.

Lessons learned along the way

After more than 30 years in business, Martin has learned plenty but one lesson stands out: don’t do it alone.

Building strong relationships with mentors, advisers, and trusted partners can make all the difference when challenges arise.

He also believes in the importance of delegation; surrounding yourself with capable people and trusting them to do what they do best, so he can focus on growing the business.

Life beyond recruitment

Outside of work, Martin has discovered a new passion: winemaking.

What started as a hobby is slowly growing into a business. He plans to obtain a wine licence and one day sell his own wines, with the profits going towards charitable causes that are close to his heart.

When he’s not in the vineyard, you’ll likely find him watching rugby on TV. A proud Welsh rugby fan, he rarely misses a match.

After decades spent helping others build their careers, Martin continues to explore new passions of his own. And if his journey has shown anything, it’s that great opportunities often begin with a willingness to take a chance.

Connect with TTG Recruitment

Categories
Business Claims Insurance Insurance Insights

We Helped a Client Recover More Than Just a Vehicle 

One of our landscaping clients faced a costly setback when the incorrect fuel was accidentally added to their work vehicle, causing significant damage.

With the vehicle off the road, their ability to operate and generate income was immediately affected.

At first, the insurer approved the claim. However, four weeks after lodgement with no additional information provided, the insurer reversed their decision.

They advised that they misread the policy and that the claim, including both repairs and downtime would not be covered.

This sudden change left our client feeling confused and under pressure. The business had already been disrupted and the claim outcome had shifted. 


Our role as your insurance claim support 

This is where our team stepped in to provide them with insurance claim support.

Our insurance claim support team reviewed the situation and challenged the insurer’s decision. We highlighted a few key points: 

  • The client had been open and honest from the start
  • The insurer had already indicated the claim would be covered
  • The delay in changing the decision put the client at a disadvantage 

The insurer finally agreed to cover the repair. However, they still declined the downtime insurance claim.

We didn’t stop there. Given that downtime cover had been clearly discussed earlier with the insurer, we continued to push the matter further.

We escalated the case to a Dispute Resolution Officer. We also continued negotiations over several months to seek a fair outcome. 

Landscaping work vehicle under repair after fuel damage, representing business insurance claim and downtime support

The outcome

After persistent follow-up and strong advocacy from our insurance claim support team, the insurer agreed to cover both the repair and the downtime claim.

This result made a real difference to our client. It helped them recover financially and get their business moving again. 

Key takeaways:


Insurance claims do not always go smoothly. Decisions can change, and the process can feel overwhelming.

This is where having a broker can make a real difference.

Without insurance claim support, many business owners do not have the time or energy to challenge claim decisions or navigate disputes. Some may even accept an outcome that is not fair.

When you work with a broker, we handle the claim process for you. We advocate on your behalf as your insurance claim support and deal with the insurer directly.

You can focus on your business, knowing you have someone in your corner when it matters most. Learn more about our claim services. here.

Claims contact information

1800 809 132 (choose option 1 for claims)
cl****@**********om.au

Categories
Business Insurance Insurance Insights

Why Run-Off Cover Matters More Than You Think

When we asked our Insurance Advisors what cover they wish clients took more seriously, one answer stood out: run-off cover.

Many business owners with Professional Indemnity insurance cancel their cover when they retire, sell their business, or stop trading.

They often think they no longer need insurance.

But without run-off cover, they will not be protected for work they did in the past.

What Is Run-Off Cover?

Run-off cover is an extension to Professional Indemnity insurance. It protects a business after it stops trading.

Professional Indemnity insurance is a claims-made policy. Because of this, it is important for businesses to add run-off cover.

To understand this, it helps to see how different types of insurance work.

Occurrence-Based Insurance (e.g. Public Liability)

Most insurance, such as Public Liability insurance, respond based on when an incident happens.

For example:

  • A business had Public Liability insurance from 2010 to 2015
  • Someone slipped at the business premises in 2014
  • The claim was made in 2020

In this case, the policy from 2014 can still respond. This is because the incident happened while the insurance policy was active.

Claims-Made Insurance (e.g. Professional Indemnity)

Professional Indemnity insurance works differently.

It is a claims-made policy. This means there must be an active policy when the claim is made.

For example:

  • A business had Professional Indemnity insurance from 2010 to 2015
  • The business stopped trading and cancelled the policy in 2016
  • A claim was made in 2020 about advice given in 2014

Even though the business had insurance when the advice was given, there is no active policy in 2020 when the claim is made.

Because of this, there will be no cover to protect the business.

Without run-off cover, the business will need to pay legal costs, settlements, or compensation themselves.

Other common claims-made insurance include:

  • Cyber Insurance
  • Management Liability insurance

How Run-Off Cover Helps

This is where run-off cover is important.

If a business takes out run-off cover after it stops trading, it can still be protected if a claim is made later.

Run-off cover is especially important for:

  • Retiring business owners
  • Businesses being sold
  • Professionals changing industries
  • Anyone cancelling a claims-made insurance
Small business owner speaking with insurance broker about run-off cover protection

Why Run-Off Cover Matters

Claims for advice or professional work can take years to appear.

Sometimes a problem is not found until long after the job is finished.

The Good News

Run-off cover is often cheaper than active insurance.

The cost can also go down over time as the risk reduces.

Many industries suggest around 7 years of run-off cover. But the right time depends on the business, contracts, and industry.

Speak to Your Broker Before Cancelling Cover

It may feel natural to cancel insurance when closing a business or retiring.

But without understanding future risk, it can lead to serious financial problems later.

Before cancelling any claims-made insurance policy, speak with your broker about run-off cover.

A short conversation today could help protect you from a costly claim in the future.

OUR BUSINESS SOFTWARE

FLEXIOriginally launched in the 1980s as a premium funding service helping clients pay insurance premiums in instalments, our platform has evolved to support brokers in offering flexible payment options.

Today, Flexigrow also provides business management software, enabling business owners to manage operations in one streamlined platform.
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