The number of NSW flood claims lodged has climbed to 8726, the Insurance Council of Australia said this afternoon. 

The total is up from 7383 on Friday, which included 5780 home, 1240 motor and 363 commercial claims from the Mid North Coast, Hunter and Greater Sydney regions. 

Insurance hubs set up to help customers in Taree and Port Macquarie remained open over the weekend, while improved weather and reopened roads allowed more damage assessments and companies have scaled up resources. 

“We know the clean-up process and road to recovery will be a long one for many,” CEO Andrew Hall said.

“Insurers have already fast-tracked some claims, issuing emergency payments and funds for temporary accommodation.” 

NSW Premier Chris Minns has said he will be “putting the heat” on insurers to respond rapidly after the slow resolution of some claims following 2021 floods in the region. 

“Everyone is going to have to do their part here and that means insurance companies will have to step up and pay out claims quickly,” he told ABC Radio National Breakfast last week. 

Commonwealth and state disaster recovery funding has been activated, and NSW has named former police deputy commissioner Dave Owens as recovery co-ordinator. 

ICA has reiterated calls for increased spending on mitigation and resilience, and for planning rule changes to prevent future catastrophes. 

“Right now, our focus is on helping those affected, but as we progress through the immediate recovery we will remain committed to long-term solutions that lessen the impact of extreme weather,” Mr Hall said. 

“This means investment in resilience: stronger homes, better flood defences and smarter planning to keep people out of harm’s way.” 

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