Insurance catastrophe declared for Mildura storm damage
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has declared a catastrophe for damage caused by
a severe hail storm that struck the Mildura region of north-west Victoria, and nearby parts of
New South Wales and South Australia, last Friday.
$20 million in losses so far
Insurers have received about 9000 claims, with estimated insured losses of more than $20
million. More claims are expected over the next few weeks.
ICA CEO Rob Whelan said the industry had escalated its response to help policyholders
affected by the storm.
“In addition to the building and vehicle damage these storms typically bring, the storm has
caused significant agricultural losses. The timing could barely be worse for many producers,
coming so close to harvest time. Fortunately, a substantial proportion of the damaged crops,
trees and vines will be covered by insurance,” Mr Whelan said.
Under the catastrophe declaration the ICA has:
- Established an industry taskforce to address and identify any issues that arise
- Activated its disaster hotline – 1800 734 621 – helping policyholders if they are
uncertain which insurer they are with, or have general inquiries about the claims
process - Mobilised ICA staff to work directly with local services and affected policyholders in
the region
The ICA and its members are also liaising with state governments, local councils, emergency
services and other agencies.
Mr Whelan said affected policyholders should contact their insurer or insurance broker as
soon as possible so the claims process could commence.
“Representatives of several insurance companies have already arrived in the area to assist
their policyholders,” he said.
“Insurers recognise how serious this situation is for a region so dependent on agriculture,
and are responding with appropriate urgency.”
Source: ICA
