The Youpla Group, also known as the Aboriginal Community Benefit Fund (ACBF) sold insurance policies to First Nations people and went into liquidation in March 2022.

To help the families of fund members affected by the collapse, the Australian Government is running a support program for those affected.

Youpla Support Program (valid from 1 July 2024)

The Youpla Support Program commenced on 1 July 2024 and will continue until 30 June 2026.

Eligible recipients will not need to apply or register, Services Australia will make contact by phone.

It may take some time for Services Australia to contact everyone. If a request is urgent, please contact Services Australia or if you think Services Australia may not have your up-to-date contact details you can contact Services Australia and update this information.

Key things to note about the Youpla Support Program:

• You may be eligible for a payment through the program if you paid for an ACBF/Youpla funeral fund on or after 1 August 2015 and have not received a previous payment.
• The program will pay 60% of the amount paid for your policy, up to the total value of the policy (whichever is lower).
• If a payment is $1000 or more, you will be able to choose between putting the payment into a funeral bond to pay for Sorry Business, or a lump sum payment into your bank account.
• Financial counselling will be available to help you make the choice.

The initiative follows the interim Youpla Group Funeral Benefits Program, which closed on 30 June 2024 and allowed the families of former members to claim a grant to cover immediate funeral expenses.

Need further assistance?

1. For more information about the Youpla Support Program, go to niaa.gov.au/Youpla or call Services Australia on 1800 136 380.
2. If this has brought up hard feelings, you can call 13YARN (13 92 76) for a private yarn with a First Nations supporter. They will take the time to listen with no shame of judgment.
3. If you have any questions about your APIA Funeral policy and you are a Youpla customer, we can assist you in discussing any options you may wish to consider and answer your questions. While we are unable to give you personal advice which considers your own individual situation or needs, we can let you know options you may wish to think about. Please contact us on youplaenquiryapia@apialifeinsurance.com.au.

Note: This information is current as at 10th October 2024 and is based on information available at that date from the relevant Government websites.