Ann Byrne
Big academics-based superannuation fund UniSuper has joined the growing list of funds to offer members an improved insurance office, promising an increase in the level of death and total and permanent disablement cover at no additional premium.
The new insurance offering, announced this week by UniSuper chief executive Ann Byrne, will apply to all new and existing members who meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
The fund said the improved insurance offering applied to all ages rather than being directed at a select age group.
Byrne said the upgraded insurance products followed the successful renegotiation of UniSuper’s insurance arrangements with its external insurer, Hannover Life Re of Australasia Limited.
“Insurance cover is a key aspect of financial planning that helps members to manage the risk of financial loss,” she said. “It is important that members protect their income, for both their own and families’ security.”
The insurance company has joined this year’s awards as a principal partner.
The $135 billion fund has transitioned away from TAL Life Insurance following an “extensive tender process”.
The $80 billion fund is facing legal action over allegedly signing up new members to income protection insurance by default without active member consent.
In a Senate submission, the Financial Services Council has once again called for further clarification that the government will assess the consumer outcomes of group insurance against the enshrined objective of superannuation.