

Had an issue with QBE? Get a real response.
How to submit a complaint with QBE
1) Start with the team closest to the issue (often fastest)
QBE recommends contacting the team already handling your policy, billing, or claim first (for example, your claims officer or the claims department). Their details are usually on your policy documents, letters, or emails. This gives the people with the most context a chance to fix simple mistakes quickly.
2) Call QBE Customer Relations (formal complaints line)
If you’re not sure who to contact, or you’ve already tried and didn’t get a result, call QBE’s complaints line on 1300 650 503 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm AEST/AEDT).
When you call, say clearly: “I want to lodge a formal complaint.” Then share your policy/claim number and the outcome you want.
3) Lodge your complaint online (good for a clear written record)
Use QBE’s “Lodge a complaint” option to submit your details in writing. Include your policy or claim number, a timeline of what happened, and any supporting documents. Keep your confirmation/reference number.
4) Email your complaint (attach supporting evidence)
Email QBE Customer Relations at complaints@qbe.com and include:
- Full name + contact details
- Policy/claim number
- What happened (with dates)
- What outcome you’re seeking
- Attachments (quotes, photos, letters, invoices, screenshots)
5) Send a written complaint by mail (formal option)
Write to: Customer Relations, GPO Box 219, Parramatta NSW 2124. Include copies (not originals) of any relevant documents.
Tip: In every channel, add a one-line outcome request (for example: “I’m seeking a reassessment and a written explanation of the decision,” or “I’m seeking payment of $X based on attached quotes.”). It makes it easier for QBE to action your complaint quickly.
Acknowledgement and reference number
QBE should acknowledge your complaint and (usually) provide a reference number so it’s trackable.
Stage 1: Early resolution attempt
QBE may try to resolve your issue at the first point of contact, especially if it’s a simple error, missing information, or a service problem that can be corrected quickly.
Stage 2: Customer Relations review (internal dispute resolution)
If it’s not resolved, your complaint can be escalated to QBE’s Customer Relations team for an independent review. A dispute resolution specialist may contact you, review records, and liaise with other QBE teams.
Timeframes
Under the General Insurance Code of Practice, insurers aim to provide a final response within 30 calendar days (assuming they have the information they need). If it’s taking longer, QBE should explain why, provide an updated timeframe, and tell you about external escalation options.
Outcome in writing
You should receive a written outcome explaining:
- What decision was made (upheld/partly upheld/declined)
- Why the decision was made (policy terms/evidence)
- What happens next (payment, reassessment, correction, or next steps)
Common complaints against QBE
Claim delays and long settlement timeframes: Some customers report extended claim timelines, especially where repairs, assessments, or liability investigations drag on.
Poor communication or difficulty getting updates: A common frustration is slow replies, unreturned calls, and inconsistent updates during claim or dispute handling.
Claim disputes (declined or underpaid claims): Some complaints involve claims being denied, partially paid, or settled for less than expected, leading to disputes about policy interpretation and evidence.
Premium increases and billing/admin issues: Customers sometimes complain about sharp premium rises, confusing renewal notices, or admin errors that create payment or policy status problems.
Service experience: Some customers report being passed between teams or needing to repeat information multiple times before someone takes ownership.
QBE complaints submitted through Ajust
How other consumers QBE complaints got resolved
A home insurance customer disputed a low settlement offer after a long delay:
The customer asked QBE to justify the assessment in writing, gathered independent repair quotes, and escalated the matter for internal review so the figures could be reconsidered.
A landlord policyholder reported payment reminders even though the premium had been paid:
The customer called QBE, explained the mismatch clearly, and the issue was corrected after QBE reviewed the payment records and updated the policy status.
A long-term customer questioned a steep premium increase at renewal:
The customer lodged a formal complaint requesting a clear explanation, compared alternative quotes, and escalated the matter for review when they did not receive a satisfactory response.
1) Ask for escalation to Customer Relations (internal dispute resolution)
If you’re stuck with the frontline team, request escalation and quote your complaint reference number. Be specific about what outcome would resolve the issue.
2) Flag urgency if you’re in hardship or the delay is causing real impact
If you’re without a car, unable to live in your home, or experiencing financial hardship, say so plainly and ask for your matter to be prioritised.
3) Use your broker or intermediary (if you purchased through one)
If your policy was arranged via a broker, they can often escalate issues through insurer channels and help push for faster progress.
4) Escalate externally if you’re not satisfied or timeframes aren’t met
If you receive a final response you disagree with, or QBE hasn’t resolved your complaint within the expected timeframe, you can escalate to Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).
AFCA (external dispute resolution for insurance complaints)
AFCA is the main external pathway for complaints about general insurers. It’s free for consumers and can investigate disputes about claim handling, delays, and outcomes. If AFCA makes a determination and you accept it, it is binding on the insurer.
General Insurance Code of Practice concerns
If you believe QBE has breached the Code (for example, poor complaint handling timeframes or unfair process), you can raise a concern with the Code Governance Committee via the official Code site.
Reporting broader misconduct
If you believe there is systemic misconduct or serious regulatory issues, you can report concerns to Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC). For fixing your individual dispute, AFCA is usually the most direct option.
- QBE Complaints & feedback (how to complain): https://www.qbe.com/au/about/governance/complaints
- QBE online complaint form (Customer Relations): https://www.qbe.com/au/about/governance/complaints/customer-relations
- QBE complaints phone line (Customer Relations): 1300 650 503
- QBE complaints email: complaints@qbe.com
- QBE complaints postal address: Customer Relations, GPO Box 219, Parramatta NSW 2124
- General Insurance Code of Practice (Insurance Council of Australia): https://insurancecouncil.com.au/cop/
- Report a Code concern (Code Governance Committee): https://insurancecode.org.au/consumers-small-business/raise-a-concern/
- AFCA (lodge an external dispute): https://www.afca.org.au | 1800 931 678 | info@afca.org.au
- ASIC guidance (how to complain): https://asic.gov.au/about-asic/contact-us/how-to-complain/
QBE Complaints FAQs
You’ve done your part, now it’s time to hold QBE accountable.
Take the final step and submit a complaint that gets seen and responded to.