Ombudsman calls for submissions on the VMIA’s handling of domestic building insurance claims

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Following a referral from Parliament, the Ombudsman Marlo Baragwanath is investigating how the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (‘VMIA’) has managed domestic building insurance (‘DBI’) claims.

This referral was made in response to complaints about the VMIA, particularly in the wake of the collapse of Porter Davis which left around 1,500 Victorians with partly built homes.

To inform our investigation we are seeking submissions from people who have made DBI claims.

“Part of an Ombudsman’s role is to highlight the human impact of public administration, so when we look at possible systemic issues, we want to hear directly from people about their experiences,” Ms Baragwanath said.

“In this case, we’re looking at whether the VMIA’s claims management practices were fair and reasonable.”

Starting today, we’ve opened an online submission form and a dedicated phone line for people to share their experiences with us. We will be taking submissions until 11 October 2024.

At the end of the investigation, the Ombudsman may make recommendations for improvements based on her findings. The Ombudsman’s final investigation report will be tabled in Parliament and published on our website.

Submissions can be made here , and more information about the investigation process is available here.

No further public comment will be made about the investigation at this time.