Compare Life Insurance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurers Under Scrutiny for Response to Alfred Flood Claims

Insurers Under Scrutiny for Response to Alfred Flood Claims

Insurers Under Scrutiny for Response to Alfred Flood Claims?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In a recent development, Queensland MP David Lee has raised concerns about how insurance companies are addressing claims following the devastating floods caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Businesses in Hervey Bay, a region heavily impacted by the floods, report facing significant hurdles in having their damage claims recognized.

Speaking before an upcoming Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) meeting set to address policyholder issues, Mr. Lee highlighted widespread dissatisfaction among flood-affected businesses regarding their insurance claims. According to him, while some insurers have been proactive, others are rapidly dismissing any responsibility for flood-induced damage.

Mr. Lee shared insights based on data from the state's business disaster recovery initiative. He noted a growing trend where business owners are struggling with insurance complications as they strive to recover from the calamity that hit in March. He criticized certain insurers for demanding exhaustive hydrology reports from already distressed clients and called for more efficient resolutions to these pressing claims.

Emphasizing his point, he recounted the ordeal of a local butcher whose shop faced significant damage estimated at more than $300,000. Despite having paid insurance premiums for nearly two decades, the business owner now finds himself in dire financial straits, having to cover employee wages from his depleting savings, without any incoming revenue.

According to the ICA, insurers have processed over 100,000 claims amounting to nearly $1 billion due to Alfred's impact. Hervey Bay, particularly, suffered severe consequences, leading the ICA to label the incident a catastrophe. They plan to hold a meeting in Hervey Bay on May 15 to address ongoing concerns.

Liam Walter, ICA's director of mitigation and extreme weather response, emphasized the importance of direct engagement in Hervey Bay. The council aims to ensure comprehensive support and resolution for those affected, with expectations that assessments and discussions around rebuilding are well underway by now.

Published:Monday, 5th May 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Navigating the Rise in Strata Insurance Premiums: Causes and Solutions
Navigating the Rise in Strata Insurance Premiums: Causes and Solutions
30 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In recent years, many Australian strata property owners have faced significant increases in insurance premiums, with some experiencing hikes of 40-80% since 2022. Understanding the underlying causes of these increases is crucial for developing effective strategies to manage and mitigate costs. - read more
Consumer Advocates Call for Ban on Conflicted Strata Broker Payments
Consumer Advocates Call for Ban on Conflicted Strata Broker Payments
30 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Consumer advocacy groups are urging the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) to explicitly prohibit conflicted remuneration arrangements in strata insurance. This call comes amid concerns that such financial practices may compromise the interests of strata property owners. - read more
Potential Crisis Looms Over Strata Industry Amid Proposed Insurance Commission Reforms
Potential Crisis Looms Over Strata Industry Amid Proposed Insurance Commission Reforms
30 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The strata management sector in Australia is at a crossroads, with proposed reforms to eliminate insurance commissions sparking concerns about the industry's future viability. Bobby Lehane, CEO of PICA Group, has issued a stark warning that removing these commissions could lead to a decline similar to that experienced by the aged care industry. - read more
Significant Decline in Australian Commercial Insurance Rates in Early 2026
Significant Decline in Australian Commercial Insurance Rates in Early 2026
30 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In the first quarter of 2026, Australia's commercial insurance market experienced a notable decline in rates, with an average decrease of 12%, as reported by Marsh's latest Global Insurance Market Index. This trend marks a continuation of the previous quarter's downward trajectory, offering potential relief to businesses grappling with insurance costs. - read more


Life Insurance Articles



Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:


All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Double Indemnity:
A clause or provision in a life insurance policy that doubles the payout in cases of accidental death.