Specialist insurance built for vintage, classic and collector vehicles across Australia. Compare agreed value cover from trusted providers and protect your prized vehicle at the right price.
Why vintage, classic and collector vehicles need specialist insurance cover in Australia.
Classic car insurance is a specialist form of motor vehicle cover built for vintage, classic and collector vehicles. Standard car insurance assumes that vehicles lose value as they age, but many classic cars actually appreciate over time, making conventional market value policies a poor fit.
The centrepiece of classic car insurance is agreed value cover. When you take out the policy, you and the insurer agree on what the vehicle is worth. If it is written off or stolen, you receive that agreed figure minus your excess, rather than a depreciated market value that might fall well short of the car's actual worth.
Classic vehicles also have distinct repair needs. Sourcing parts might involve specialist suppliers, reproduction manufacturers or overseas imports. Bodywork often requires a specialist panel beater rather than a general repairer. A standard car insurance policy may not account for these higher costs.
While motor vehicle insurance is not compulsory in all Australian states for comprehensive cover, the financial exposure of driving an uninsured collector vehicle is significant. The Federation of Historic Motoring Clubs Australia (AHMF) represents hundreds of clubs and thousands of enthusiasts nationwide. For general insurance guidance, see ASIC's Moneysmart car insurance guide.
Key point: A standard car insurance policy might value a 1971 vehicle at a few hundred dollars based on depreciation. Agreed value classic car insurance ensures a pristine example is covered for its true market worth, which could be tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Cover options for classic, vintage and collector vehicles in Australia.
Covers damage you cause to other people's property. Your own classic vehicle is not covered at all, leaving the full financial risk with you.
Adds protection for theft and fire damage to the basic third party cover. A reasonable choice for classics kept in secure storage and driven only occasionally.
Full protection with an agreed value payout. Covers your classic for collisions, theft, fire, storm damage and more. Often includes specialist repairer access and parts sourcing allowances.
A closer look at the providers most commonly chosen by classic car owners across Australia.
Shannons is Australia's best-known enthusiast vehicle insurer, with over 40 years of experience covering classic, vintage and performance cars. Agreed value is standard on all policies, and their claims team understands the specific needs of collector vehicle owners.
Grundy Insurance is a specialist collector vehicle insurer operating in Australia. They offer agreed value cover for a wide range of classic, vintage and special interest vehicles, with flexible usage options and competitive pricing for limited-use classics.
AAMI is one of Australia's largest general insurers and offers comprehensive car insurance with agreed value options that can suit classic vehicle owners. Part of the Suncorp Group, AAMI provides broad coverage and strong claims support.
Allianz offers comprehensive car insurance with agreed value that may suit classic vehicles. As a global insurer with a strong Australian presence, Allianz provides broad underwriting capacity for higher-value and unusual vehicles.
QBE provides comprehensive car insurance with agreed value cover suitable for classic and collector vehicles. Available directly and through brokers, QBE can accommodate higher-value vehicles through its broad underwriting appetite.
The right cover depends on how you use your classic, its value and how it is stored.
Providers offering specialist classic and vintage vehicle cover in Australia.
| Provider | Cover Types | Online Quotes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shannons | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | Enthusiast specialist |
| Grundy | Comp, TPFT | ✓ | Collector vehicles |
| AAMI | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | All-rounder |
| Allianz | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | High-value vehicles |
| QBE | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | Broker and direct |
Disclaimer: Not all providers offer dedicated classic car policies. Some cover classics through standard motor vehicle policies with an agreed value option. Always verify specialist classic car cover availability directly with the provider. If you have noticed something incorrect, please let us know.
Coverage features specific to classic and collector vehicle policies compared with standard car insurance.
| Feature | Standard Car Insurance | Classic Car Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Valuation method | Market value (depreciating) | Agreed value (fixed or appreciating) |
| Parts sourcing | Standard or aftermarket parts | Original, reproduction or custom fabricated |
| Repairer choice | Insurer's approved network | Often allows specialist repairers |
| Show and event cover | Not typically addressed | Usually included (non-competitive) |
| Spare parts cover | Not typically included | Often available as an add-on |
| Restoration cover | Not available | Some policies offer in-progress cover |
| Limited mileage discount | Rarely offered | Common and reduces premiums |
| Club membership discount | Not typically offered | 5 to 15 percent discount common |
What classic car insurance typically does not cover.
Most policies exclude competitive racing, hillclimbs and timed events. Non-competitive rallies, club runs and show attendance are usually covered. Separate motorsport cover is available for circuit use.
Any modifications not declared to the insurer can void your cover entirely. This includes engine swaps, suspension changes, body modifications and non-original paint. Always disclose every change to your vehicle.
If your policy has an annual mileage cap and you exceed it, your insurer may decline a claim. Keep a record of your odometer readings and contact your insurer if you expect to go over.
Some policies require the vehicle to be stored in a locked, enclosed garage when not in use. Leaving it parked on the street or in an unsecured area may breach your policy conditions.
Classic car insurance does not cover mechanical failures, wear and tear or electrical faults. These are inherent risks with older vehicles and require separate mechanical warranty cover or self-funding.
Claims will be declined if the vehicle is being driven by someone without a valid licence or outside their licence conditions. Ensure all nominated drivers hold appropriate licences.
Key factors Australian insurers consider when pricing classic and collector vehicle policies.
Rarer vehicles with limited surviving examples may cost more to insure because of parts scarcity and the specialist skills needed for repairs.
Higher agreed values lead to higher premiums. Make sure the agreed value accurately reflects the car's current worth to avoid paying more than necessary.
Vehicles stored in a locked garage with an alarm and immobiliser attract lower premiums. Climate-controlled storage may qualify for further discounts with some insurers.
Limited-use vehicles driven under 5,000 km per year attract significantly lower premiums than those used regularly. Some policies offer tiered pricing based on kilometres.
Membership of a club affiliated with the Federation of Historic Motoring Clubs Australia may earn you a discount of 5 to 15 percent.
Heavily modified vehicles or non-original restorations may attract higher premiums. Period-correct restorations in original condition are generally cheaper to insure.
Indicative annual comprehensive premiums by vehicle era and value for an experienced Australian owner with limited use.
Disclaimer: These figures are indicative estimates only and are not quotes. Actual premiums depend on the specific vehicle, its condition, agreed value, usage pattern and storage. Always request a quote directly from the insurer for accurate pricing.
Practical ways to reduce your classic car insurance premium in Australia.
Membership of a club affiliated with the AHMF can unlock 5 to 15 percent discounts and gives you access to valuations, parts networks and club plate schemes.
Several Australian states offer concessional club plate registration schemes that restrict use to club events, maintenance runs and specific personal use. Insuring a vehicle on club plates can significantly reduce premiums.
A locked garage, alarm system and immobiliser can all lower your premium. Some insurers offer additional discounts for climate-controlled storage.
Neither over-insure nor under-insure. A professional valuation ensures you pay the appropriate premium and receive the correct payout if something goes wrong.
If you own several classics, a multi-vehicle policy can deliver meaningful savings compared to insuring each vehicle on its own.
Monthly instalments typically include fees and interest that add 5 to 10 percent to the total annual cost. Paying upfront avoids these charges.
What to check at renewal time for classic car insurance in Australia.
Classic car values can move considerably from one year to the next. Confirm your agreed value still reflects the vehicle's current worth and arrange an updated valuation if the market has changed.
Obtain estimates from both specialist and mainstream providers. A specialist may offer better features and claims support even if the headline premium is slightly higher.
Ensure all modifications are declared, storage requirements are met and mileage limits match your expected usage on the new policy.
Start the new policy on the same day the old one ends. Even a single day without cover leaves a valuable classic vehicle exposed.
Steps to follow if your classic vehicle is damaged, stolen or involved in an incident in Australia.
Secure the scene and call 000 for emergencies. Move the vehicle only if it is safe to do so.
Photograph all damage thoroughly from multiple angles. For classic cars, detailed images are critical for accurate repair assessments.
Lodge your claim as soon as possible. Have your agreed value documentation and any valuation reports ready.
Request a specialist assessor if your insurer does not automatically appoint one. Standard assessors may not understand classic vehicle repair requirements.
Repairs are arranged with your chosen specialist, or you receive the agreed value payout minus your excess. If you are unhappy with the outcome, you can escalate through AFCA.
Australia has a thriving classic car community with unique characteristics.
What to look for in your classic car insurance Product Disclosure Statement.
Check how the agreed value is determined, how often it must be reviewed and whether a professional valuation is required. Some policies automatically adjust the agreed value at renewal.
Look for clauses about specialist repairers, parts sourcing and whether the insurer can mandate standard parts. Classic car policies should allow for original or reproduction parts.
Check mileage limits, event coverage and whether the vehicle can be used for driving experiences or wedding hire. Some policies restrict usage to personal, non-commercial purposes only.
Many classic car policies require enclosed, locked storage. Check whether temporary outdoor parking at shows, cafes or other venues is permitted and for how long.
Common questions about classic car insurance in Australia.