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Flood victims receive $6 million in compensation from insurance companies following complaints

Flood victims receive $6 million in compensation from insurance companies following complaints

Flood victims receive $6 million in compensation from insurance companies following complaints?w=400

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The recent flood disasters in Victoria and New South Wales have resulted in nearly $6 million in compensation to policyholders affected by the floods, according to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).
Data from the AFCA revealed that 1,064 flood-related complaints were recorded as of December 31, with the majority of complaints related to home building insurance (74%) and home contents insurance (9%).

The AFCA's lead ombudsman for insurance, Emma Curtis, acknowledged that the scale of natural disasters in Australia, combined with shortages of labor and materials, have caused delays in insurers assessing claims and completing repair work. She emphasized the importance of insurers promptly assessing claims, informing customers about expected time frames, and clearly communicating about claims options.

Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh also commented on the issue, noting that there has been a substantial increase in insurance policy premiums for postcodes threatened by floods since the 2022-23 Victorian and New South Wales flood crisis. He highlighted the need for healthy competition among insurance companies to keep prices reasonable in flood-prone areas.

In response, a spokesperson for the Victorian government stated that they are working with the Commonwealth government and the Insurance Council of Australia to explore ways to make insurance more affordable and accessible to residents of Victoria.

Published:Friday, 27th Jan 2023
Source: Paige Estritori

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