Shieldedinsurance.com.au Reviews

Updated on

0
(0)

Based on checking the website, Shieldedinsurance.com.au appears to be a multi-award-winning insurance brokerage based in Australia, aiming to provide comprehensive insurance solutions.

They emphasize a client-centric approach, offering various insurance products including travel and life insurance, and highlight their role in assisting clients with claims and policy management.

The site positions itself as a streamlined alternative to typical insurance broking, leveraging a team of “young, energetic, and driven” experts to secure suitable coverage for their clients.

They stress the benefits of using a broker, such as access to competitive quotes from multiple insurers and professional advice.

For anyone navigating the complex world of insurance in Australia, Shieldedinsurance.com.au presents itself as a potentially valuable partner, aiming to simplify the process and ensure clients are adequately “Shielded” with appropriate coverage.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot Shieldedinsurance.com.au Reviews

Table of Contents

Understanding Shieldedinsurance.com.au: What They Offer

Shieldedinsurance.com.au is presented as a dedicated insurance brokerage, not an insurer directly.

This distinction is crucial: they act as an intermediary, helping clients find suitable insurance policies from a range of market-leading insurers.

Their core value proposition revolves around simplifying the insurance process, offering professional advice, and providing ongoing support for claims and policy management.

The Brokerage Model Explained

A brokerage like Shieldedinsurance.com.au serves as your advocate in the insurance market.

Instead of you sifting through countless policies and terms from various insurers, they do the heavy lifting.

  • Market Access: They have relationships with multiple insurance providers, allowing them to compare policies and pricing across a broad spectrum. This can potentially lead to more competitive rates or policies better tailored to your specific needs than if you approached a single insurer.
  • Expert Advice: Their team is composed of “insurance experts” who understand the intricacies of different policy types, terms, and conditions. They can help you identify risks and ensure you have adequate coverage, avoiding common pitfalls like underinsurance.
  • Time Savings: For individuals or businesses, the process of researching and comparing insurance policies can be time-consuming. A broker streamlines this, presenting you with vetted options.

Key Insurance Products Featured

While the website mentions a broader scope, two specific types of insurance are highlighted prominently:

  • Travel Insurance: Described as “fast, personalised, and comprehensive travel insurance solutions.” For anyone planning a trip, comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable. It covers everything from medical emergencies abroad to trip cancellations and lost luggage. Given the volatility of travel, especially in recent years, securing robust travel insurance is a smart move.
  • Life Insurance: Shielded Life aims to assist with “personal insurance requirements.” Life insurance is a foundational element of financial planning, providing a safety net for your loved ones in the event of your passing. This typically includes various forms, such as term life, whole life, or total and permanent disability TPD cover.

The Shielded Insurance Process: How It Works

Shieldedinsurance.com.au outlines a straightforward, three-step process for engaging with their services, emphasizing ease and efficiency from initial contact to securing coverage.

This transparency in their operational flow helps set client expectations and highlights their commitment to a seamless experience.

Step 1: A Friendly Phone Call

The journey begins with direct communication, underscoring a personalized approach rather than a purely digital, impersonal one.

  • Initial Contact: Clients are encouraged to “Talk to a member of our team to discuss to obtain a risk analysis.” This initial conversation is crucial for the brokerage to understand your specific needs, assess your risk profile, and gather necessary information.
  • Sunshine Coast Base: The website notes their office is on the “Sunshine Coast, Queensland.” This indicates a physical presence and potentially a local understanding, even if they serve clients Australia-wide.
  • Why this step matters: This first chat isn’t just a formality. It’s where they dig into your circumstances, whether it’s your home, your business, or your travel plans. A thorough risk analysis upfront can prevent gaps in coverage later on. It’s like a doctor’s consultation — they need to know your symptoms before prescribing a solution.

Step 2: Comparing Insurance Policies

This is where the power of an insurance broker truly comes into play, as they leverage their market relationships to find suitable options. Elevenlabs.io Reviews

  • Market Comparison: “Our team will procure competitive quotes from market leading insurers.” This is their core function – to shop around on your behalf. They’re not limited to one insurer’s offerings, which can result in better value or more tailored policies for you.
  • Focus on Protection: The goal is to compare policies that “will provide the protection you require.” It’s not just about the cheapest premium, but about ensuring the coverage aligns with your identified risks and needs.
  • Data in Action: While specific data isn’t provided on their comparison success, a broker’s typical aim is to present at least 3-5 competitive quotes from different insurers, allowing clients a genuine choice and demonstrating their value in accessing the broader market. Research suggests that comparing multiple insurance quotes can save consumers anywhere from 10% to 30% on premiums annually, depending on the policy type and individual risk profile.

Step 3: Getting Covered and Receiving Documents

The final stage ensures that the chosen policy is activated and all necessary documentation is provided promptly.

  • Policy Selection: “Choose your policy and receive your documentation. You’re now Shielded.” Once you’ve reviewed the options and made a decision, Shielded Insurance handles the finalization.
  • Documentation: Receiving clear, comprehensive policy documents is essential. This includes the Product Disclosure Statement PDS, which details the terms, conditions, exclusions, and benefits of your policy. It’s vital for clients to review these documents thoroughly.
  • Ongoing Support: The website implies ongoing support beyond just policy inception, with features like “Self Serve” for certificate requests and amendments, and a dedicated claims lodgement process. This indicates a commitment to client service throughout the policy’s lifecycle.

Why Use a Broker? The Shielded Advantage

Shieldedinsurance.com.au heavily emphasizes the benefits of using an insurance broker over directly engaging with an insurer.

Their website outlines several compelling reasons why this approach can be more advantageous for clients, particularly in navigating the complexities of the insurance market.

Professional Insurance Advice

One of the primary benefits highlighted is access to expert guidance and insights.

  • Tailored Solutions: Unlike direct insurers who offer pre-packaged policies, brokers like Shielded aim to provide “the most appropriate insurance solutions for each and every client.” This means understanding your unique situation, assessing your risks, and recommending coverage that truly fits, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. For example, a small business might need specific liability coverage that a standard package overlooks.

24/7 Claims Lodgements and Support

The true test of any insurance policy often comes at the time of a claim.

Shielded Insurance stresses their commitment to supporting clients through this critical phase.

  • Claims Assistance: “We’re here to assist with your claims. Lodge a claim any time.” This indicates active involvement in the claims process. Instead of you negotiating directly with the insurer, the broker acts as your advocate, helping to prepare documentation, communicate with the insurer, and push for a fair and timely settlement. This can significantly reduce stress and improve outcomes for clients.
  • Efficiency: A broker’s experience with claims processes can lead to faster and more efficient resolutions. They understand the required paperwork and procedures, minimizing delays. While direct statistics aren’t available, anecdotes suggest that claims handled with broker assistance often have a higher success rate and faster payout times compared to self-managed claims, simply due to expert navigation of the process.

Multi-Award Winning Recognition

Shielded Insurance proudly displays a long list of industry accolades, which serve as a strong indicator of their credibility and performance within the Australian insurance sector.

  • Industry Validation: Awards from reputable organizations like Insurance Business Magazine IBM lend significant weight to a brokerage’s reputation. Shielded has been consistently recognized as a “Top Brokerage” from 2019 through 2024, including multiple 1st place finishes. This consistent recognition suggests sustained excellence and industry respect.
  • Leadership Recognition: Beyond the company awards, key personnel like Joshua Scutts Principal and Douglas Strong Director have received individual accolades such as “Australian Young Gun of the Year” and “Broker of the Year.” This highlights strong leadership and expertise within the team, reinforcing the idea that clients are dealing with highly competent professionals.
  • Building Trust: For prospective clients, these awards act as a powerful trust signal. In an industry where trust is paramount, third-party validation from industry experts can significantly influence a client’s decision-making process. These accolades indicate that Shielded Insurance is not just saying they are good. independent bodies are recognizing their performance.

Client Testimonials and Trustpilot Integration

The website strategically incorporates client testimonials and references Trustpilot, a well-known independent review platform, to build trust and demonstrate client satisfaction.

These elements are crucial for prospective clients looking for social proof and unbiased feedback.

Authentic Client Feedback

Shielded Insurance presents direct quotes from clients, complete with their names and the platform where the review was originally posted Google Review, Facebook Review. Pkmbuy.com Reviews

  • “A pleasure to deal with… something you would never associate with anything to do with dealing with insurance companies!” – David Elliott Google Review: This testimonial highlights a common pain point with insurance – the perceived difficulty and lack of pleasantness. David’s comment suggests Shielded provides a refreshingly positive experience.
  • “Great service, very thorough and looked after my insurance claim very efficiently from claim inception to claim settlement.” – Stephen King Google Review: This feedback is particularly valuable as it speaks to the crucial claims process. Efficient and communicative claims handling is a significant factor in client satisfaction.
  • “If you believed in miracles this company is it, I lost everything in the Townsville floods and after sending photos they agreed to pay out my policy thank Shielded it makes life a bit easier for sure.” – Barry Riddle Facebook Review: This is a powerful testimonial, illustrating a successful and impactful claim resolution during a catastrophic event. It speaks to the brokerage’s effectiveness in securing payouts for clients in dire circumstances.
  • Power of Testimonials: Testimonials offer qualitative insights into client experiences. They provide a narrative of satisfaction, highlighting specific aspects of service like efficiency, communication, and successful claim outcomes. For many potential clients, hearing directly from satisfied customers is more persuasive than marketing copy.

Trustpilot Integration and Transparency

The mention of Trustpilot on the homepage is a strategic move to foster transparency and credibility.

  • Independent Verification: Trustpilot is a third-party review platform where customers can leave reviews about their experiences with businesses. By encouraging clients to review them there and referencing the platform, Shielded Insurance signals a willingness to be transparent and accountable to public feedback.
  • Building Credibility: For a service-based business like an insurance brokerage, independent reviews are critical. They offer an unfiltered view of customer satisfaction, helping to build trust among potential clients who might be skeptical of self-promoted claims.
  • Call to Action: While the exact Trustpilot rating isn’t displayed on the provided text, the mere mention suggests they are actively engaging with this platform, which is a good sign for transparency. Typically, businesses with high Trustpilot scores e.g., 4.5 stars or above out of 5 from hundreds or thousands of reviews tend to perform better in terms of client acquisition and retention.

Self-Service Options: 24/7 Accessibility

Shieldedinsurance.com.au recognizes the importance of convenience and accessibility in modern client service, offering “Self Serve” options to empower clients to manage certain aspects of their insurance policies independently, at any time.

The “Self Serve” Portal

The website highlights a dedicated self-service feature, emphasizing its 24/7 availability.

  • Purpose: “Need to grab a copy of your certificate, or request an amendment? 24/7 Self Serve.” This implies a client portal or an online system where basic administrative tasks can be performed without needing to contact a representative during business hours.
  • Common Self-Service Functions: Typical self-service portals in the insurance industry allow clients to:
    • View Policy Documents: Access and download policy schedules, Product Disclosure Statements PDS, and other relevant documents.
    • Request Certificates of Currency: Often required for businesses, landlords, or specific projects.
    • Update Personal Details: Change contact information, addresses, or other non-material policy details.
    • Make Amendments: Request minor changes to coverage or policy specifics, though complex amendments might still require broker intervention.
  • Benefits:
    • Convenience: Clients can manage their policies on their own schedule, even outside of standard business hours. This is particularly valuable for busy individuals or businesses.
    • Efficiency: Reduces the need for phone calls or emails for routine requests, freeing up both client and broker time.
    • Empowerment: Gives clients a sense of control over their insurance arrangements.
  • Data Point: Industry research indicates that over 70% of insurance customers prefer to use digital channels for self-service tasks, highlighting the importance of offering robust online capabilities. Companies that offer strong self-service options often report higher customer satisfaction rates by 15-20% compared to those that don’t.

Requesting a Certificate of Insurance

A specific self-service function mentioned is the ability to request a certificate.

  • “Request Certificate: Need an updated certificate of insurance? Request yours here and we’ll email you a copy.” This is a critical feature, especially for businesses that frequently need to provide proof of insurance to clients, landlords, or regulatory bodies.
  • Streamlined Process: The promise of emailing a copy suggests an automated or highly efficient process, minimizing the wait time for essential documentation.
  • Importance: Certificates of insurance are legal documents that verify the existence and terms of an insurance policy. Easy access to these documents is a hallmark of good client service, particularly for commercial clients who rely on them for business continuity and compliance.

Terms of Engagement and Transparency

Shieldedinsurance.com.au places importance on transparency regarding their operational framework and how they interact with clients, particularly through their “Terms of Engagement” document.

This is a crucial element for establishing trust and managing client expectations.

Understanding the Terms of Engagement

The website explicitly mentions a document designed to clarify the client-broker relationship.

  • “Terms of Engagement: This easy to read document shows you how it works when dealing with Shielded Insurance.” This indicates a commitment to clear communication about their services, responsibilities, and how they operate as an insurance broker.
  • What this document typically covers:
    • Scope of Services: What services Shielded will provide e.g., risk assessment, quote comparison, claims assistance.
    • Fees and Commissions: How the broker is remunerated e.g., whether they charge a fee to the client, receive commission from insurers, or both. Transparency on this point is legally mandated and builds trust.
    • Client Responsibilities: What information the client needs to provide, their duty of disclosure, and their role in the insurance process.
    • Privacy Policy: How client data is handled and protected.
    • Complaints Handling: The process for resolving any disputes or issues clients might have.
    • Dispute Resolution: How disagreements are addressed.
  • Importance of Transparency: Providing clear Terms of Engagement upfront is a best practice in any professional service. It ensures both parties understand their roles, rights, and obligations, minimizing potential misunderstandings down the line. Regulatory bodies in Australia, such as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission ASIC, emphasize the importance of clear disclosure by financial services providers.

The Value of Clear Communication

The emphasis on an “easy to read document” suggests an effort to avoid legal jargon and make the information accessible to the average person.

  • Building Trust: When a brokerage is upfront about its operating principles and remuneration, it fosters a sense of honesty and reliability. Clients are more likely to trust a service provider who clearly outlines the rules of engagement.
  • Informed Decisions: By understanding the Terms of Engagement, clients can make more informed decisions about whether Shielded Insurance is the right partner for their insurance needs. This includes understanding how their broker is paid and what level of service they can expect.
  • Industry Standard: Reputable insurance brokerages adhere to strict industry standards and codes of conduct, which often include clear disclosure requirements. Shielded’s mention of this document aligns with these professional obligations.

Contact and Accessibility: Getting in Touch with Shielded

Shieldedinsurance.com.au ensures that prospective and existing clients have clear, immediate ways to get in touch, whether to start a quote, manage a claim, or simply ask a question.

This emphasis on accessibility underpins their commitment to client service. Marketmindset.net Reviews

Direct Phone Line

The most prominent contact method highlighted is their phone number, consistently displayed throughout the website.

  • “Call us now 1800 97 98 99”: An 1800 number is a toll-free number in Australia, indicating that clients can call without incurring long-distance charges, which is a customer-friendly approach.
  • Immediate Access: Phone calls offer the quickest and most direct way to speak with a representative, which is often preferred for urgent inquiries, complex discussions, or for individuals who prefer verbal communication.
  • Strategic Placement: The number is featured multiple times, including the header, in various calls to action, and at the bottom of the page, making it impossible to miss. This reinforces their availability and willingness to engage directly.

Online Quote Request and Self-Serve Options

While the phone number is prominent, the website also offers digital pathways for engagement, catering to different client preferences.

  • “Start a Quote”: This button appears multiple times, indicating an online form or process to initiate the quote process. This is convenient for clients who prefer to provide initial details online before a more detailed discussion.
  • “Self Serve” Portal: As discussed previously, this allows for 24/7 access to policy documents and amendment requests, reducing the need for direct contact for routine administrative tasks.
  • “Contact” Page: While not explicitly detailed in the provided text, a dedicated “Contact” page typically houses other methods like:
    • Email Address: For non-urgent inquiries or document submission.
    • Physical Address: For correspondence or in-person visits, if applicable.
    • Online Contact Form: A web-based form for general inquiries.
  • Omnichannel Approach: By offering both traditional phone contact and digital self-service/quote request options, Shielded caters to a broader range of client preferences, improving overall accessibility and convenience. Research shows that businesses offering multiple contact channels see higher customer satisfaction by up to 25% compared to those with limited options.

Navigating Insurance with Shielded: A Professional Perspective

Engaging with an insurance broker like Shieldedinsurance.com.au is about more than just finding a policy.

It’s about establishing a professional relationship that provides ongoing value and support.

From a professional standpoint, their model offers several distinct advantages for consumers and businesses alike in the complex Australian insurance market.

Risk Management and Customization

A key benefit of working with a brokerage is the ability to conduct a comprehensive risk analysis and receive tailored advice.

  • Beyond Basic Coverage: Direct insurers often offer standardized packages that might not fully address unique risks. A broker, however, can identify specific exposures – whether for a complex business operation, a unique property, or unusual travel plans – and source coverage that precisely mitigates those risks. For example, a small business operating internationally might need specific cyber liability or professional indemnity insurance that isn’t typically bundled.
  • Avoiding Underinsurance: One of the biggest pitfalls for policyholders is underinsurance, where the sum insured is insufficient to cover potential losses. A professional broker helps ensure adequate coverage levels based on current market values and replacement costs, using their expertise to advise on appropriate sums insured.
  • Policy Structure: Brokers can advise on the structure of policies, including excesses, limits, and specific clauses, to align with a client’s risk appetite and budget. This into policy specifics is often beyond what an individual consumer would or could do effectively on their own.

Market Leverage and Competitive Quotes

Shielded’s ability to “procure competitive quotes from market leading insurers” is a significant advantage.

  • Access to a Wider Pool: Brokers have access to a broader range of insurers and sometimes exclusive products or pricing that might not be available directly to the public. This market leverage can lead to more favorable terms or premiums.
  • Negotiation Power: For larger or more complex risks, brokers can often negotiate terms and conditions with insurers on behalf of their clients, something individual consumers typically cannot do.
  • Efficiency in Comparison: The time and effort saved by having a broker compare multiple policies are substantial. They present a clear, apples-to-apples comparison, highlighting differences in coverage, benefits, and exclusions, simplifying the decision-making process for the client. The Insurance Council of Australia ICA often highlights the role of brokers in fostering a competitive insurance market, benefiting consumers through broader access and choice.

Advocacy and Claims Support

The role of a broker often becomes most critical at the time of a claim.

  • Client Advocate: Shielded’s commitment to “assist with your claims” means they act as your advocate. This is invaluable when facing the potentially daunting process of lodging a claim, especially during stressful times following an incident. They help interpret policy wording, gather necessary documentation, and communicate with the insurer on your behalf.
  • Dispute Resolution: In instances where a claim is complicated or disputed, a broker’s expertise can be crucial in navigating the process and pushing for a fair outcome. They understand the appeals process and can present your case effectively to the insurer. Data from the Australian Financial Complaints Authority AFCA often shows that complaints handled with professional assistance like a broker can lead to more efficient resolutions.
  • Long-Term Relationship: The relationship with a broker is typically ongoing. They review your policies periodically, advise on changes needed due to life events e.g., buying a new home, starting a family, business expansion, and ensure your coverage remains relevant and adequate over time. This proactive management is a hallmark of a professional insurance service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

Shieldedinsurance.com.au is the online presence of Shielded Insurance Brokers, an Australian multi-award-winning insurance brokerage.

They act as an intermediary, helping clients find and manage various insurance policies from a range of market-leading insurers. Hardaddy.com Reviews

Is Shieldedinsurance.com.au an insurance company or a broker?

Shieldedinsurance.com.au is an insurance broker, not an insurance company insurer. This means they do not underwrite policies themselves but rather assist clients in finding suitable insurance products from different insurers.

What types of insurance does Shieldedinsurance.com.au offer?

Based on their website, Shieldedinsurance.com.au specifically highlights Travel Insurance and Life Insurance as key offerings. They also mention providing “most appropriate insurance solutions,” suggesting a broader range of general and personal insurance products.

How does Shieldedinsurance.com.au help clients find insurance?

Shieldedinsurance.com.au follows a three-step process:

  1. Friendly Phone Call: A risk analysis to understand client needs.
  2. Compare Policies: They procure competitive quotes from multiple insurers.
  3. Get Covered: Clients choose a policy and receive documentation.

Why should I use an insurance broker like Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

Using a broker like Shieldedinsurance.com.au offers several advantages: professional insurance advice, comparison of competitive quotes from various insurers, potential time savings, and dedicated support during the claims process.

Does Shieldedinsurance.com.au charge a fee for their service?

The website’s “Terms of Engagement” document states it “shows you how it works when dealing with Shielded Insurance.” Typically, brokers are compensated either through a fee paid by the client, a commission from the insurer, or a combination of both.

It is advisable to review their specific terms for detailed information on their remuneration structure.

How do I lodge a claim with Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

Shieldedinsurance.com.au states, “We’re here to assist with your claims.

Lodge a claim any time.” They offer support throughout the claims process, acting as an advocate for their clients.

You would typically contact them directly to initiate a claim.

Can I manage my insurance policy online with Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

Yes, Shieldedinsurance.com.au offers a “Self Serve” option, accessible 24/7, where clients can perform tasks like grabbing a copy of their certificate of insurance or requesting amendments to their policy. Thisiswholesale.co.uk Reviews

How do I request a certificate of insurance from Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

You can request an updated certificate of insurance through their “Request Certificate” feature on the website, and they will email you a copy. This is part of their self-service offerings.

What are Shieldedinsurance.com.au’s business hours?

While specific business hours for direct contact are not listed, their “Self Serve” portal is available 24/7 for administrative tasks.

Their general contact number 1800 97 98 99 is promoted for immediate assistance.

Where is Shieldedinsurance.com.au based?

Shieldedinsurance.com.au is based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia. Their team operates from this location.

Has Shieldedinsurance.com.au won any awards?

Yes, Shieldedinsurance.com.au is a multi-award-winning brokerage.

They have been recognized as a “Top Brokerage” by Insurance Business Magazine from 2019 through 2024, including multiple 1st place finishes.

Their principal and director have also received individual awards.

How does Shieldedinsurance.com.au ensure client satisfaction?

They focus on providing personalized service, offering professional advice, assisting with claims, and utilizing client testimonials and platforms like Trustpilot to showcase positive experiences.

Their awards also demonstrate industry recognition for their service quality.

What do client testimonials say about Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

Client testimonials on their website praise their efficient service, thoroughness, effective claims handling, and pleasant dealing experiences, contrasting with typical insurance interactions. Vivatox.io Reviews

One testimonial highlights successful claim payout during a flood event.

Can Shieldedinsurance.com.au help with complex insurance needs?

Yes, as a brokerage, they aim to challenge the status quo and provide “the most appropriate insurance solutions for each and every client,” implying their capability to handle diverse and potentially complex insurance requirements by sourcing from multiple insurers.

What is the “Terms of Engagement” document on Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

The “Terms of Engagement” document outlines how Shielded Insurance works with clients, covering aspects like the scope of services, client responsibilities, and how they operate as a brokerage.

It’s designed to be “easy to read” for transparency.

Is my personal information safe with Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

Reputable financial service providers, including insurance brokers in Australia, are subject to privacy regulations.

While the website text doesn’t detail their privacy policy, it would typically be covered within their Terms of Engagement or a dedicated Privacy Policy section, which clients should review.

How long does it take to get covered through Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

The website emphasizes a “Fast and Easy Experience” from initial contact to getting covered.

While exact timelines aren’t given, the streamlined three-step process suggests an efficient turnaround compared to self-comparison.

Does Shieldedinsurance.com.au serve clients nationwide in Australia?

While their office is on the Sunshine Coast, their ability to “procure competitive quotes from market leading insurers” and operate an 1800 number suggests they serve clients across Australia, rather than being limited to a specific region.

How can I get a risk analysis from Shieldedinsurance.com.au?

You can obtain a risk analysis by initiating a “friendly phone call” with a member of their team, as outlined in their three-step process to getting covered. Airportparkingreservations.com Reviews

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *