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Hobart storm claims hit $100 million

Insured losses from devastating storms and floods in parts of Hobart and the southern suburb of Kingston three months ago have reached almost $100 million, and the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) says more than half the household claims have already been closed.

Almost 8800 household and commercial claims have been filed after the May 11 event, totalling $99.72 million.

ICA GM Communications Campbell Fuller says insurers sent staff, specialists and equipment from the mainland to speed the recovery effort.

“As of today, almost 90% of motor vehicle claims have been closed, as well as about 55% of home building claims and almost 45% of contents claims,” he said.

“The insurance industry promised immediately following the floods that it would act swiftly and with compassion to help affected households and businesses.

“It continues to deliver to customers despite many challenges, including shortages of equipment and replacement goods in Tasmania.”

The Hobart storms are the largest natural disaster to strike Australia this year.

Insured losses from the NSW and Victorian bushfires in March, mostly affecting the coastal town of Tathra, stand at $82.5 million from 1039 claims. Tropical Cyclone Marcus, which struck the NT on March 17, resulted in 6218 claims with insured losses of almost $62 million.

Floods in north and central Queensland in early March, mainly causing damage in Ingham, Innisfail and Cordelia, led to insurance losses of almost $17 million from 525 claims.