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
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Allianz Partners Highlights Risks of Travelling Uninsured
Allianz Partners Highlights Risks of Travelling Uninsured
23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travellers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance. This statistic has prompted Allianz Partners to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before travelling abroad. - read more
Surge in Medical Claims Among Australian Travellers Highlights Importance of Comprehensive Insurance
Surge in Medical Claims Among Australian Travellers Highlights Importance of Comprehensive Insurance
23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In 2024, medical incidents emerged as the leading cause of travel insurance claims among Australian travellers, accounting for more than 40% of all claims handled by nib Travel. This trend underscores the critical importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance to mitigate the financial risks associated with medical emergencies abroad. - read more
Qantas Travel Insurance Honoured with Mozo Experts Choice Award 2024
Qantas Travel Insurance Honoured with Mozo Experts Choice Award 2024
23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Qantas Travel Insurance has been recognised in the 2024 Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Travel Insurance, showcasing its exceptional value for their Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance policy. - read more
Australian Insurers Falling Behind in Cybersecurity Readiness
Australian Insurers Falling Behind in Cybersecurity Readiness
23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are lagging behind their global counterparts in preparedness for emerging risks, particularly in the realms of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). This survey, encompassing insights from 698 insurance executives across 42 territories, highlights a concerning trend for the Australian insurance sector. - read more
Climate Change Drives Up Home Insurance Premiums in Australia
Climate Change Drives Up Home Insurance Premiums in Australia
23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has recently highlighted the escalating impact of climate change on home insurance premiums across the nation. The insurer's latest report indicates that the increasing frequency and severity of weather events are contributing to higher costs for homeowners seeking coverage. - read more


Commercial Property Insurance Articles

The Essential Checklist for Property Investors: Filing a Claim with Confidence
The Essential Checklist for Property Investors: Filing a Claim with Confidence
As a property investor, having the right commercial property insurance is vital. It protects your investment against unexpected events, ensuring that your assets are safeguarded. Commercial property insurance covers a range of risks that can lead to significant financial losses, from natural disasters to theft. Understanding the nuances of this insurance is essential for making informed decisions that impact your bottom line. - read more
Is Commercial Property Insurance mandatory?
Is Commercial Property Insurance mandatory?
Commercial property insurance is a type of coverage that protects businesses and their assets from various risks. This insurance safeguards physical properties, including buildings, equipment, inventory, and other essential assets. By having commercial property insurance, businesses can mitigate losses that may occur due to unexpected events. - 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
Is Commercial Property Insurance Mandatory? What Every Landlord Should Know
Is Commercial Property Insurance Mandatory? What Every Landlord Should Know
Commercial property insurance is a type of coverage designed to protect property landlords and investors from various risks. It typically encompasses buildings, equipment, and other assets associated with commercial spaces. Understanding this insurance is crucial for anyone involved in property leasing or investment, as it can safeguard against significant financial loss. - read more
Natural Disasters and Your Commercial Property: Is Your Insurance Adequate?
Natural Disasters and Your Commercial Property: Is Your Insurance Adequate?
Australia is known for its diverse landscapes, but one of the harsher realities it faces is the increasing frequency of natural disasters. From bushfires in the outback to devastating floods in urban areas, these events can have severe implications for commercial properties. Business owners must navigate the challenges of not only protecting their assets but also ensuring the continuity of their operations. - read more


Your free insurance quote comparison starts here!
First Name:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Waiting Period:
The time period that must pass after filing a claim before the insurance coverage becomes effective or benefits are paid.