Suncorp Group has pledged a $500,000 community recovery package to support areas impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, directing funds toward both immediate relief and long-term rebuilding initiatives.
The insurer will contribute $200,000 to the Australian Red Cross Cyclone Alfred Appeal to assist with urgent needs such as food, shelter, and essential supplies.
An additional $300,000 will go to the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) to fund projects designed to help affected communities recover and build resilience against future disasters.
Suncorp group CEO Steve Johnston said the company’s support reflects its focus on both short-term assistance and sustainable recovery.
“We are proud to support two organisations working directly with impacted communities to aid in both recovery and rebuilding efforts, as well as immediate support for essential supplies and services,” he said.
Suncorp’s response also includes deploying claims assessors and building specialists across the 33 local government areas affected by the cyclone. The insurer has also set up customer support teams at community recovery centres and Mobile Disaster Response Hubs at Milton Suncorp Stadium and South Tweed Heads.
“We understand the urgency of getting people back in their homes as quickly and smoothly as possible,” Johnston said.
More than 20,700 claims have been submitted to Suncorp as of March 17, with approximately 19,000 related to residential properties. Among these, over 6,000 food spoilage claims have been finalised, with payments issued to customers.
Suncorp is also continuing its recovery efforts in North and Far North Queensland following severe flooding in February.
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has reported a total of 63,600 claims related to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, with an additional 10,000 lodged over the weekend. Most claims involve food spoilage, wind damage, and water ingress.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has also received multiple travel insurance claims from Australian customers affected by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, reflecting widespread travel disruptions. As of March 13, 37 claims had been submitted, with more than $12,000 already paid out.
ICA deputy CEO Kylie Macfarlane said the increase in claims over the weekend reflects the ongoing recovery process.
“The rise in claims count over the weekend is a reassuring sign that clean-up and recovery is well underway across many parts of southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales,” she said.
To accelerate rebuilding efforts, the ICA has launched an Expression of Interest (EOI) initiative inviting tradespeople from other states to assist with repairs. Applications can be submitted via the ICA website.
SCTI CEO Jo McCauley commented that extreme weather events are increasingly affecting travel plans both domestically and internationally.
“Extreme weather events caused by climate change are increasing and, as a result, travellers are facing higher rates of disruption both internationally and domestically,” she said.
SCTI research indicated that while most Australians prioritise insurance for overseas travel, only 41% view domestic travel insurance as essential.
McCauley advised travellers to purchase insurance early and ensure they are covered for unexpected events.
“When people think of travel insurance, they often think of medical costs first, but while these can be costly, other issues such as changes to your journey, e.g., rebooking airfares or cancelling accommodation, can incur costs which can quickly add up,” she said.
SCTI provided guidance for travellers dealing with disruptions, including:
Travellers are also encouraged to check Australia’s Smartraveller website for the latest travel and safety information.
