Suncorp assisting following east coast storms

Suncorp Group’s Executive General Manager of Home Claims Customers, Alli Smith said from 23 – 27 December more than 3,000 home and motor claims were lodged across Queensland, New South Wales, ACT and Victoria.

“These storms have been destructive with cyclone level winds, large hail and heavy rainfall causing a lot of damage to some parts of the east coast,” Mrs Smith said.

“The most impacted suburbs have been Rutherford in the Newcastle region, Runaway Bay and Coomera on the Gold Coast, Orange in the Central Tablelands of New South Wales, and Gatton in the Darling Downs of Queensland.”

Mrs Smith said the quickest and easiest way for people to lodge a claim was online for any of the Group’s insurance brands including Suncorp Insurance, AAMI, GIO, Apia and Shannons.

“You don’t need to be at home or have a copy of your policy to lodge a claim – we will have your details. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start the recovery process,” Mrs Smith said.

She also warned of further storms predicted and to make sure people were well prepared.

“The most important thing is for people to be safe, and follow the warnings,” she said.

“Clear your gutters and downpipes, and make sure any fallen debris is cleared in your backyard.

“Make sure your roof has no damaged or loose tiles, or raised corners of corrugated sheets.

“As the storm approaches, secure any outdoor items, such as furniture and pot plants, or take them inside if possible.”

Mrs Smith said Suncorp teams were also continuing to assist in the Far North following ex-TC Jasper.

“Nearly 1500 claims have so far been lodged with more than a thousand of those for damage to homes,” she said.

“Our Community Support Teams are assisting on the ground at recovery centres, including:

• Holloway Beach Football Club
• Wonga Beach
• Mossman Neighbourhood Centre
• Daintree (to be set up)
• Cooktown Community Centre
• Cassowary Coast, Innisfail Library

“I want to thank all our teams who have been kept very busy over the past couple of weeks. I want to reassure our customers that Suncorp will continue to process claims and help people rebuild and recover as quick as possible.”