The Insurance Council of Australia will host a meeting in Hervey Bay to help customers recovering from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Policyholders can consult with insurers on their claims and receive personal advice.

And later in the evening, at a town hall event, insurers will provide information on claims and complaints processes, and details on the area’s recovery.  

Last week, state MP David Lee warned many business leaders in the Queensland town were “expressing profound concerns about the diminishing prospect of success regarding their insurance claims”. 

He noted that while some insurers “have been great”, others appear to “be hastily disclaiming any liability for flood damage.  

“Distraught business owners are being asked to complete hydrology reports, and they are reporting that insurance companies are either rejecting or substantially delaying their claims.”

ICA mitigation and extreme weather response director Liam Walter says the industry is continuing to engage with and support affected communities.  

“While the Insurance Council and its members had presence in Hervey Bay immediately following this weather event and provided support and advice for impacted community members, it’s important for insurers to visit the region to work through any questions, issues or concerns,” he said.

“We expect assessment activities and scope of work discussions are well under way at this point in the claim process, but hope these additional forums will provide further support for the Hervey Bay community as they continue their recovery.”  

The Insurance Council says more than 100,000 claims related to the cyclone have been made, with insured losses nearing $1 billion.  

The ICA meeting is on May 15 at Clubhouse Hervey Bay. One-on-one consultations will run from 10am-4pm, with the town hall starting at 5pm.  

Click here for registration information.