Liability Insurance Australia :: 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:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

NTI Updates Transport Pack to Support Transport Industry Amid Challenges
NTI Updates Transport Pack to Support Transport Industry Amid Challenges
17 May 2026: Paige Estritori
National Transport Insurance (NTI), Australia's leading truck insurer, has recently refreshed its Transport Pack to better support the transport industry during a period marked by significant challenges. With nearly five decades of industry experience, NTI is leveraging its extensive data to offer solutions tailored to the current needs of transport operators. - read more
Australian Motor Fleets Embrace Telematics to Boost Safety and Control Costs
Australian Motor Fleets Embrace Telematics to Boost Safety and Control Costs
17 May 2026: Paige Estritori
In response to escalating insurance premiums and stringent safety regulations, Australian motor fleet operators are increasingly turning to telematics technology. This shift is particularly evident in sectors with high operational risks and compliance requirements, such as the resources industry. - read more
IAG's Strategic Response to Softening Commercial Insurance Market
IAG's Strategic Response to Softening Commercial Insurance Market
17 May 2026: Paige Estritori
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) is proactively addressing the challenges posed by the current soft commercial insurance market through its Intermediated Insurance Australia (IIA) division. CEO Jarrod Hill has expressed confidence in the division's ability to navigate these conditions, citing a well-balanced business portfolio and strategic operational adjustments. - read more
Tasmania's Collaborative Strategy to Enhance Insurance Affordability
Tasmania's Collaborative Strategy to Enhance Insurance Affordability
17 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The Tasmanian Government has announced a significant shift in its strategy to address insurance affordability and availability within the state. Premier Jeremy Rockliff revealed plans to collaborate with insurers, brokers, and reinsurers to develop solutions that effectively tackle these issues. - read more
Federal Budget 2026: Initiatives to Enhance Insurance Affordability
Federal Budget 2026: Initiatives to Enhance Insurance Affordability
17 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Government's 2026 federal budget has earmarked $3.4 million over four years to develop measures aimed at reducing property insurance costs and addressing the issue of unintentional underinsurance. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the financial pressures faced by homeowners and businesses due to escalating insurance premiums. - read more


Business Insurance Articles

The Importance of Public Liability Insurance in the Australian Labour Hire Industry
The Importance of Public Liability Insurance in the Australian Labour Hire Industry
The Australian labour hire industry has seen a significant rise in recent years, and with this growth, comes new and unique risks that companies in this industry must be prepared to navigate. One such risk is the potential for accidents or damages to occur in the workplace, which is where public liability insurance comes in. This article will explore the definition of public liability insurance and why it is so important for labour hire companies in Australia. - read more
Insurance Essentials: Protecting Your Small Business with Public Liability Coverage
Insurance Essentials: Protecting Your Small Business with Public Liability Coverage
Running a small business in Australia comes with its own set of challenges and risks. One crucial aspect that should never be overlooked is insurance, particularly public liability insurance. The reason is simple: it offers essential protection against claims of property damage or personal injury caused by your business operations. - read more
Q&A: Common Questions Australian Business Owners Have About Public Liability Insurance
Q&A: Common Questions Australian Business Owners Have About Public Liability Insurance
Public liability insurance is a crucial aspect of managing risk for businesses in Australia. This type of insurance covers costs associated with claims made against a business for property damage or personal injury caused during business operations. - read more
Public Liability Insurance for Events: What Organizers Need to Consider
Public Liability Insurance for Events: What Organizers Need to Consider
Public liability insurance is a type of coverage designed to protect businesses and individuals from the financial fallout associated with claims for injury or damage caused to third parties. It is particularly crucial for event organizers, who are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of attendees, vendors, and participants. - read more
Public Liability Insurance Claims: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Public Liability Insurance Claims: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Public liability insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for businesses and individuals against claims made by third parties for injuries or damages sustained while on their property or as a result of their activities. - read more


Start Here !

Start here!

Cover Amount:
Postcode:
All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.

Knowledgebase
Coverage:
The amount of risk or liability covered for an individual or entity by way of insurance services.