Consumer advocacy group Choice.com.au has warned of a growing number of scams exploiting individuals affected by recent severe weather events in Australia.
The Insurance Council of Australia has classified the current weather situation across parts of New South Wales as a “Significant Event,” activating early-stage claims tracking and data collection protocols.
As emergency responses continue, insurance professionals are being urged to help clients recognise and avoid fraudulent activity that typically follows in the wake of natural disasters.
Communities across New South Wales – including areas such as Taree, Coffs Harbour, and the Hunter – are currently facing increased risk from unverified tradespeople offering unsolicited repair services.
Described as “disaster chasers,” these individuals often seek immediate payment for services without providing credentials or confirming insurer authorisation. If work is performed, insurers have noted it is frequently below standard, raising concerns about coverage eligibility for future claims.
Insurers recommended that clients avoid making decisions based on unannounced visits, verify licenses through official state registries, and confirm all contractor affiliations with their insurer before proceeding with repairs.
Scams involving impersonated bank representatives have also been reported, especially as financial institutions announce assistance measures like payment deferrals or account access relief.
Fraudsters may attempt to contact disaster-affected individuals via text, phone, or email, requesting confidential information or directing fund transfers.
Banks reiterated that they do not ask customers for login credentials, PINs, or verification codes through unsolicited messages. Clients are encouraged to initiate contact with their bank using official communication channels if suspicious activity arises.
Impersonation attempts have extended to government entities as well. Scammers posing as representatives from myGov or the Australian Tax Office have reportedly used similar tactics, often requesting repayment of fabricated debts or personal information.
Authorities confirmed that such agencies do not demand sensitive data via direct contact and advise individuals to cross-check any request through government-verified websites or service numbers.
In the aftermath of recent storms, several fraudulent fundraising campaigns have emerged.
Choice.com.au noted that authorities in Western Australia recently discovered impersonators posing as a well-known charity on social media, soliciting gift card donations from previous supporters.
To combat this, insurance professionals are being encouraged to direct policyholders and the public to confirm the legitimacy of donation requests.
The Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC) maintains a searchable register of authorised organisations.
Additionally, official disaster support sites often list endorsed donation channels.
The NSW flooding forms part of a broader series of high-loss weather events in 2025. ICA reports indicated that more than 126,000 insurance claims have been lodged so far this year, with insured losses nearing $1.5 billion.
