Australian insurers are managing a significant influx of claims after severe thunderstorms and hailstorms swept through Southeast Queensland and parts of Victoria in late October.
The storms, which brought large hail, strong winds, and heavy rainfall, led to extensive losses across residential, commercial, and motor portfolios.
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has classified the Brisbane hailstorm on Oct. 26 as a Significant Event, initiating its preliminary catastrophe protocols.
By Oct. 28, insurers had received around 11,000 claims from affected policyholders. These claims cover a range of losses, including damaged vehicles, property, food spoilage due to power outages, and structural impacts from fallen trees and debris.
“Sunday’s hailstorm brought intense rainfall [and] hail and was widespread across parts of the Brisbane and Ipswich region," said Andrew Hall, CEO of the ICA. "Insurers understand the impact these extreme weather events have and will be moving quickly to ensure communities receive the assistance they need.”
He added that the ICA is working with government agencies to assess the situation and may escalate the event to a catastrophe if the volume or complexity of claims increases further.
IAG, which operates brands such as NRMA Insurance, CGU, WFI, ROLLiN’, and RACQ Insurance, reported more than 4,500 claims as of Oct. 30.
The company has dispatched property assessors, builders, and specialist hail repair teams to affected areas.
“Our team of property assessors and partner builders are on the ground conducting Make-Safe repairs and assisting customers with recovery," Luke Gallagher, IAG executive general manager claims. "Likewise, our specialist hail repairers are contacting customers to begin repairs for hail-damaged vehicles.”
Gallagher emphasised the importance of safety during clean-up and encouraged customers to contact their insurer promptly if they suspect damage or require assistance.
Suncorp Group has also experienced a high volume of claims, with over 5,500 lodged by Oct. 30 – approximately 5,000 from Queensland and 500 from Victoria.
The insurer estimates the event’s net cost to fall between $220 million and $260 million, with final figures to be confirmed in its upcoming financial results.
CEO Steve Johnston noted that Suncorp’s disaster management resources are fully engaged, including mobile hubs and rapid deployment of inspection teams to secure properties and prevent further loss.
Insurers are urging policyholders to begin the claims process as soon as possible, even if all damage has not yet been fully assessed.
Customers are advised to document losses thoroughly, retain receipts, and make a detailed inventory of affected items.
Safety remains a priority during clean-up, with recommendations to wear protective clothing and consult local authorities regarding disposal of hazardous or water-damaged materials.
The ICA has also warned residents about “disaster chasers” – contractors or businesses that approach homeowners with offers to manage repairs, sometimes suggesting that all costs will be covered by insurance.
The council advises policyholders to consult their insurer before signing any agreements, as unapproved work may not be reimbursed.
