Navigating the End of Cheque Usage in Australian Insurance Payments
Navigating the End of Cheque Usage in Australian Insurance Payments
1
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.
As Australia marches towards the cessation of cheque payments, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), in partnership with the National Insurance Brokers Association, is addressing key considerations for a seamless transition, focusing on client interaction and data safeguards.
ICA's chief, Andrew Hall, has emphasized these focal points amidst the government's push to eliminate cheques by 2030.
Proactive measures are underway within insurance circles to usher retail consumers into alternative payment methodologies. Commenting on the evolving landscape, Mr. Hall noted disparities in adaptation timelines among insurers, with 2024 serving as a potential operative target. This adaptation is in anticipation of banks phasing out cheque services starting this year.
The Treasury has expressed cognizance of cheque-based proclivities in insurance practices, a challenge compounded by brokers' exclusive custody of clients' banking details and the necessity of cheques for customer reimbursements.
Confronted with the ceasing of cheque utilities, insurance vendors are considering limited claims settlements to methods like gift cards or digital transfers. Yet, compliance with anti-money laundering laws constrains gift card usage, sparking demands for added settlement versatility during the migratory term, as advised by the ICA.
Challenges germinate in processing particular payments for claims, policy cancellations, and delivering prompt aid to financially-strapped policyholders, a sentiment vocalized by Mr. Hall. Detailed are the conundrums in locating previous customers for rectification payouts, correspondingly more intricate than contact issues in current claims or policy annulments.
Expedited claims handling faces additional pressure where legal procedures like subpoenas and freedom of information requests rely on cheques. The initial phase-out stages could impede crucial information retrieval for claims processing, even in the wake of potential government concessions.
Furthermore, entities such as health care institutions, which predominantly opt for cheque-based payments for workers' compensation claims, necessitate governments to refine public sector cheque practices. Collaborative government synergy is encouraged to cushion this paradigm shift in transaction means.
The ICA forecasts escalated inquiries related to insurance and anticipates a rise in unclaimed funds, indicative of a pivotal need for industry-government harmony in ushering a fluid progression from cheque-based transactions to digital alternatives.
Published:Thursday, 8th Feb 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
In March 2025, Australia's housing market experienced a significant milestone, with national home prices reaching a new peak. This surge was largely influenced by the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) decision to cut interest rates in February, which reignited buyer demand across the country. - read more
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CommBank) has strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability by expanding its Green Home Offer through a renewed partnership with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC). This collaboration introduces enhanced financial incentives for homeowners aiming to improve their property's energy efficiency. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has intensified its efforts to regulate financial content on social media by issuing warning notices to 18 'finfluencers'-individuals who use social media platforms to discuss financial products and investments. These actions are part of a coordinated international initiative targeting unlicensed promotion of high-risk financial products. - read more
Virgin Australia has unveiled its 'Pets in Cabin' service, a pioneering initiative that allows passengers to travel with their pets in the aircraft cabin on select domestic routes. This service caters to Australia's substantial pet-owning population, offering a more comfortable and convenient travel option for both pets and their owners. - read more
Honda Australia has emerged as the leading motorcycle brand in 2025, achieving a remarkable 10% increase in sales over the previous year. The company sold a total of 21,901 motorcycles, solidifying its position at the forefront of the Australian market. - read more
If you're running a business in Australia, choosing the right commercial vehicle loan can be pivotal to your success. Whether you're a small business owner needing a delivery van or a large company expanding your fleet, understanding your financing options is crucial. - read more
With the evolution of the logistics industry and small businesses gaining momentum in Australia, the market for used trucks has witnessed substantial growth in recent years. This surge is a testament to the pivotal role commercial vehicles play in driving the economy forward, keeping supply chains agile and businesses thriving. - read more
Buying a truck is a major investment, whether it's for personal use or business purposes. With the plethora of options available in the Australian market, it's important to consider various factors before making a purchase. Your specific needs, budget, lifestyle, and work requirements should be taken into account before making a decision to ensure the truck you buy fits your needs. - read more
Getting the right truck loan can be essential for business owners who rely on commercial vehicles. These loans cover a variety of commercial vehicle types and are crucial for ensuring your business operations run smoothly. Truck loans, specifically, provide the necessary finances to purchase trucks, which are indispensable in industries like logistics and delivery services across Australia. - read more
Trucks play a pivotal role in the Australian logistics and transport industry, serving as the lifeblood that keeps commerce flowing. The dependable rumble of engines crisscrossing the nation's highways is more than just a symbol of industry; it's a critical component of productivity and economic stability. Without these workhorses facilitating the timely movement of goods, the Australian market would face significant challenges meeting the demands of both businesses and consumers alike. - read more
Start Here
Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options
without accessing your credit file!!
Knowledgebase
Debt Consolidation: A means empoyed to renegotiate debt. By combining loans and outstanding bills, a person can consolidate debt with a single financial institution resulting in a single monthly repayment.