TravelCard forced pause

AUSSIE insurance provider TravelCard has announced its operations have been placed in hibernation, as the company reels from the shutdown of international travel.

The decision to pause its business, underwritten by Hollard Insurance, will see the cessation of new travel insurance policies issued effective immediately, with the renewal of existing policies also ending by 01 Dec.

“This has not been an easy decision for TravelCard and we have spent the last eight months making a way forward, but until significant international travel returns the business will be put into hibernation and operations paused,” said CEO Peter Klemt.

All active policies will remain valid and serviceable, the company said, with all claims to be processed, subject to policy terms and conditions.

Commissions will also be honoured for existing policies TravelCard confirmed, with a skeleton staff to remain on deck for 15 months to manage outstanding claims and manage partner support.

“Our staff have remained dedicated and professional through a challenging time and our partners have provided us with support and belief in our aspirations,” Klemt said.

Hollard Insurance Head of Agency Partner Management and Development Orion Riggs said his company supported the decision and remained confident TravelCard would bounce back following the travel crisis.

“We look forward to TravelCard’s speedy return to the market when conditions improve,” he said.

Popular travel personality Catriona Rowntree had previously acted as a brand ambassador for the insurance company.