Commercial Property Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurers Under Scrutiny for Response to Alfred Flood Claims

Insurers Under Scrutiny for Response to Alfred Flood Claims

Insurers Under Scrutiny for Response to Alfred Flood Claims?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In a recent development, Queensland MP David Lee has raised concerns about how insurance companies are addressing claims following the devastating floods caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Businesses in Hervey Bay, a region heavily impacted by the floods, report facing significant hurdles in having their damage claims recognized.

Speaking before an upcoming Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) meeting set to address policyholder issues, Mr. Lee highlighted widespread dissatisfaction among flood-affected businesses regarding their insurance claims. According to him, while some insurers have been proactive, others are rapidly dismissing any responsibility for flood-induced damage.

Mr. Lee shared insights based on data from the state's business disaster recovery initiative. He noted a growing trend where business owners are struggling with insurance complications as they strive to recover from the calamity that hit in March. He criticized certain insurers for demanding exhaustive hydrology reports from already distressed clients and called for more efficient resolutions to these pressing claims.

Emphasizing his point, he recounted the ordeal of a local butcher whose shop faced significant damage estimated at more than $300,000. Despite having paid insurance premiums for nearly two decades, the business owner now finds himself in dire financial straits, having to cover employee wages from his depleting savings, without any incoming revenue.

According to the ICA, insurers have processed over 100,000 claims amounting to nearly $1 billion due to Alfred's impact. Hervey Bay, particularly, suffered severe consequences, leading the ICA to label the incident a catastrophe. They plan to hold a meeting in Hervey Bay on May 15 to address ongoing concerns.

Liam Walter, ICA's director of mitigation and extreme weather response, emphasized the importance of direct engagement in Hervey Bay. The council aims to ensure comprehensive support and resolution for those affected, with expectations that assessments and discussions around rebuilding are well underway by now.

Published:Monday, 5th May 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

NRMA's Departure from Farm Insurance: What It Means for Australian Farmers
NRMA's Departure from Farm Insurance: What It Means for Australian Farmers
12 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant shift within the Australian insurance landscape, NRMA has announced its withdrawal from the farm insurance market, ceasing the sale of new policies as of July 1, 2025. This decision affects both hobby and commercial farm insurance policies, leaving many farmers in search of alternative coverage options. - read more
Achmea and Protected Cropping Australia Join Forces to Support Greenhouse Farmers
Achmea and Protected Cropping Australia Join Forces to Support Greenhouse Farmers
12 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
Achmea Farm Insurance and Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at bolstering risk mitigation and resilience within Australia's protected cropping sector. This collaboration seeks to empower greenhouse and glasshouse growers by providing tailored insurance solutions and fostering knowledge exchange on best practices. - read more
Allstate Underwriting and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Collaborate to Strengthen Farm Insurance in Australia
Allstate Underwriting and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Collaborate to Strengthen Farm Insurance in Australia
12 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
Allstate Underwriting Agencies Pty Ltd and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co., Ltd have announced a multi-year capacity agreement, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at bolstering farm insurance offerings in Australia. This collaboration focuses on providing additional capacity to the medium, small, and hobby farm sector, addressing the unique needs of these operations. - read more
Federal Budget 2026: Key Takeaways for the Insurance Industry
Federal Budget 2026: Key Takeaways for the Insurance Industry
12 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The 2026-27 Federal Budget, presented by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on May 12, introduces several measures with direct implications for Australia's insurance sector. Key areas of focus include property insurance costs and the issue of underinsurance. - read more
ASIC's 2026 Risk Outlook: Implications for the Insurance Industry
ASIC's 2026 Risk Outlook: Implications for the Insurance Industry
12 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has released its Key Issues Outlook for 2026, identifying several risks that insurers and financial markets need to address. The primary areas of concern include conduct, resilience, and exposure to complex products. - read more


Commercial Property Insurance Articles

Understanding Commercial Property Insurance for Multiple Locations: What Landlords Need to Know
Understanding Commercial Property Insurance for Multiple Locations: What Landlords Need to Know
When it comes to owning commercial properties in Australia, understanding the ins and outs of insurance is crucial. Commercial property insurance serves as a safety net, protecting your valuable assets against unforeseen events. It's designed to cover the buildings themselves, as well as any equipment, inventory, and even loss of income due to disruptions. - read more
What does Commercial Property Insurance cover?
What does Commercial Property Insurance cover?
Commercial property insurance is vital for anyone who owns or operates a business that involves a physical location. This type of insurance protects your business premises, equipment, and any inventory within the space. Whether you're a landlord, a small business owner, or a property investor, having a solid understanding of commercial property insurance is essential. It not only safeguards your physical assets but also provides peace of mind for your financial investment. - read more
What Factors Affect Commercial Property Insurance Premiums?
What Factors Affect Commercial Property Insurance Premiums?
Commercial property insurance is designed to protect businesses and landlords against losses to their buildings and other related assets. This type of insurance covers various incidents, such as fire, theft, and damage from natural disasters. It's essential for safeguarding not just the physical property but also the livelihood associated with the business operations conducted within that space. - read more
How Deductibles Impact Your Commercial Property Insurance Premiums
How Deductibles Impact Your Commercial Property Insurance Premiums
When it comes to commercial property insurance, a deductible is the amount of money a policyholder agrees to pay out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. This can be a fixed dollar amount or a percentage of the total insured value. Understanding how deductibles work is crucial for any landlord or business owner seeking to protect their assets effectively. - read more
Beyond the Basics: Essential Add-Ons for Comprehensive Commercial Property Insurance
Beyond the Basics: Essential Add-Ons for Comprehensive Commercial Property Insurance
Commercial property insurance is a vital safeguard for businesses and landlords, protecting physical assets from a variety of risks. This type of insurance covers a range of properties, from office buildings to retail spaces, ensuring that in the event of damage or loss, you have financial support to recover your investment. - read more

Knowledgebase
No-Fault Insurance:
A type of car insurance where your insurer pays for your damages regardless of who is at fault in an accident.