IAG, the insurance giant with prominent brands like NRMA Insurance, CGU, and WFI, continues to assist customers affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper in Far North Queensland (FNQ).
It is also supporting those grappling with the aftermath of severe storms and floods in Southeast Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
In a recent statement, NRMA executive general manager Luke Gallagher confirmed that its teams are deployed on the ground in the most severely affected areas, supplemented by remote assistance over the phone and online channels.
“Our Major Event Response, Assessing, and Claims teams and our partner repairers are on-the-ground in Cairns and the Gold Coast region, supporting customers with their claims and providing immediate help such as emergency financial assistance and temporary accommodation,” he said.
Additionally, a fleet of partner repairers is assessing property damage in the Gold Coast region, undertaking make-safe repairs to facilitate the return of customers to their homes where suitable. In Cairns, a team of claims consultants is stationed at the Recovery Centre to offer face-to-face support to those impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
While property damage claims dominate, IAG acknowledged the significant number of customers with storm-damaged vehicles.
“We're undertaking mobile assessments for damaged vehicles in Southeast Queensland and have set up sites in Central West New South Wales where our specialist hail repairers are triaging vehicle repairs,” Gallagher said.
IAG's natural perils team is monitoring heavy rainfall in parts of Victoria, issuing “watch and act” warnings for flash flooding in Goulburn, Campaspe, King Rivers, and Fifteen Mile Creek.
“Where possible, we will engage and use local trades to support impacted communities. This ability to scale at pace ensures our customers can receive immediate help and support when they need it most,” Gallagher said.
IAG encourages affected residents to prioritise safety, follow emergency authorities' directions, and refrain from entering floodwaters. For streamlined claim submissions, customers are urged to utilise online channels through their insurer's website, with assurance of prompt communication and immediate assistance.
As of Jan. 8, IAG had received 11,077 claims resulting from the extreme weather conditions across Australia's east coast.
In other news, the Australian Securities & Investments Commission released practical guidance for FNQ communities affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
