Spike in Weather-Related Insurance Claims During Summer Revealed

2

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.

Evidently, the summer became a difficult season for many Australians, with nearly half witnessing extreme climatic conditions. Record-breaking heatwaves, powerful storms, and persistent cyclones made their mark. Homes were significantly affected, with 13,817 insurance claims made, of which the majority were connected to harsh weather phenomena stemming from heated, moist air masses leading to torrential rains and catastrophic hail.

As the seasons transition, NRMA Insurance anticipates the incidence of intense thunderstorms equipped with considerable hail, torrential downpours, and fierce gales targeting the east coast. Metereologist Zac Segger from NRMA Insurance notes the heightened susceptibility of areas in southeast Queensland, eastern New South Wales, and eastern Victoria to these formidable weather patterns.

Segger highlighted the sudden and sometimes catastrophic emergence of wild weather, emphasizing the substantial damage it can impart in a remarkably short span of time. High-impact summer events included the likes of Cyclone Jasper and various subsequent storms and heatwaves, alongside bushfires primarily in Western Australia, marking Perth’s third hottest recorded summer season.

Natalie Major, EM Claims from NRMA Insurance, points to a study encompassing 3500 Australians, revealing that a mere 40% took preemptive actions to secure their homes against extreme weather episodes in the previous year. She stresses the importance of proactive measures such as clearing debris, cleaning gutters, pruning trees, and executing vital repairs to enhance resilience against severe climate events.

The wild summer weather instigated a sharp rise in claims within New South Wales for NRMA Insurance, soaring from spring's 3200 to 11,213, with 59% linked to severe weather impacts. The Hunter Valley, Central West, Baulkham Hills, Sydney, and Hawkesbury were among the predominantly affected zones.

Queensland too bore its share of adverse weather, reflected by a substantial hike in claims to 5110 from the preceding 383 in spring, with the Gold Coast facing the brunt, accompanied by Logan-Beaudesert and Wide Bay regions.

In the Australian Capital Territory, the numbers were equally telling, with claims amounting to 1954 related to home and motor issues caused by harsh weather, a dramatic upturn from the prior spring's 188.

Both individuals and communities are impelled to remain vigilant and prepared as these climate trends and patterns evolve, reinforcing the necessary precautions to mitigate damage and ensure safety.

Published:Wednesday, 27th Mar 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Australian Insurers Brace for Profitability Decline After Record Highs

17 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian insurance industry is preparing for a downturn in profitability after achieving a decade-high return on equity (ROE) of 19% in the 2024-25 financial year. This peak performance was driven by robust underwriting results, substantial investment returns, and a period of relatively low natural disaster claims. However, industry analysts predict a six-point decline in ROE to 13% for the current financial year, bringing it back within the typical target range of 10% to 15%. - read more

Australian Insurtech Startups Experience Growth and Market Expansion

17 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian insurtech sector is demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability, with many startups reporting significant growth and successful market expansion. A recent survey of Insurtech Australia members reveals that companies generating annual revenues between $1 million and $10 million have experienced a 30% increase in revenue. Additionally, there has been a 10% rise in investment from private backers, indicating strong confidence in the sector's potential. - read more

Australian SMEs Advocate for National Reforms to Combat Rising Insurance Costs

17 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia are facing mounting challenges due to escalating insurance premiums. A recent report by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Insurance Council of Australia, highlights the urgent need for coordinated national reforms to address this pressing issue. - read more

WFI Insurance Joins Forces with Farmsafe Australia to Boost Farm Safety Standards

16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to enhance safety within the Australian agricultural sector, WFI Insurance has announced a partnership with Farmsafe Australia. This collaboration is designed to raise awareness about farming hazards and advocate for the adoption of safer work practices among farmers. - read more

Argis Underwriting Partners with Pacific International to Expand Farm Insurance Offerings

16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Argis Underwriting has announced a new partnership with Newcastle-based Pacific International Insurance, enabling the company to resume offering farm insurance coverage across Australia. This development comes after Argis ceased providing new business and renewal terms on its Farm Extra Insurance in April, following the conclusion of a five-year arrangement with HDI Global Specialty. - read more

Click for more Insurance News