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The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has declared the recent inundation and storm damage in Hobart a catastrophe, which means claims from affected policyholders will be prioritised by insurers.
CEO Rob Whelan said that more than 1,000 claims have already been lodged by Friday afternoon, and that “it’s too early to estimate the insured damage bill” for the heavy rainfall and flashflood that hit the Tasmanian city from May 10 to 11.
“The catastrophe declaration is intended to help reduce the emotional and financial stress experienced by households and business owners affected by the inundation and storm damage,” Whelan said.
Under the declaration, a disaster hotline – 1800 734 621 – has been set up to assist policyholders with their insurance concerns. Claims will also be triaged to direct urgent assistance to the worst-affected property owners.
An ICA representative as well as an industry taskforce have also been mobilised to work with local agencies, services, and policyholders to identify and address issues that arise.
Whelan urged impacted policyholders to get in touch with their insurer “as soon as possible” to receive guidance and assistance regarding the claims process.
