Insurers are processing an increasing number of claims following the severe weather that caused flooding across the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions of New South Wales.
According to the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), more than 1,600 claims have been filed as of 23 May, with further claims anticipated as conditions improve and residents return home.
The ICA issued a “Significant Event” declaration on 21 May, which has activated the industry’s disaster response mechanisms. This designation enables enhanced coordination among insurers and government stakeholders to ensure a streamlined claims process.
The ICA is urging policyholders to prioritise safety during the recovery phase and has issued a checklist to assist those initiating claims:
“We acknowledge the tragic loss of life and the ongoing impact this event is having on the affected communities. We know that for some this is the second or third flood event in the last few years,” said ICA CEO Andrew Hall.
NRMA Insurance has deployed mobile support units in Taree and Kempsey to assist customers on-site.
Luke Gallagher, executive general manager claims at NRMA Insurance, said the support units have already started engaging with affected customers to ensure timely support.
“We urge everyone to make safety their priority and wherever possible, check to ensure their neighbours and any vulnerable members of their local communities are safe,” he said.
Acenda has introduced relief options such as a premium waiver of up to three months for eligible policyholders facing financial difficulty.
The insurer is also offering access to counselling services through its wellness platform, Vivo.
Michael Downey, general manager of distribution, said advisers with affected clients should initiate discussions on available support measures.
Allianz has readied its disaster response capabilities, noting that initial claim volumes are low but expected to rise.
Scott Cooper, national disaster and recovery manager, said that the insurer is offering emergency financial assistance and has deployed customer service teams in anticipation of increased activity.
“Allianz is well prepared to assist customers in the impacted regions. While claims have been modest so far, we expect numbers to increase over the coming days as the event unfolds,” he said.
Suncorp – operating brands including AAMI, GIO, and Apia – had logged over 300 claims as of 22 May and has fully activated its disaster operations centre.
The insurer is delivering emergency repairs, temporary housing, and financial aid to those severely affected.
Lisa Harrison, CEO of consumer insurance, said the field teams are on standby, and the company is guiding customers through claims lodging – even without physical policy documents.
“We anticipate claims numbers to rise as the event unfolds, but our teams are ready to respond,” she said. “Our thoughts are with the community at this difficult time, and we encourage them to listen to emergency services.”
