Post-Cyclone Alfred: 10 Key Essentials to Remember

1. Your safety is the top prority. Material things can be replaced, but you can't. Stay indoors until you have been given the clear by authorities.

2. If you've experienced damage and are insured, file your claim as soon as possible. Let the insurers assess the situation — this applies to cars, homes, businesses, farms, and personal property.  

3. An assessor will visit your property to assess the damage once your claim is lodged.

4. Take photos of the damage prior to clean up. 

5. You can start cleaning up immediately after you’ve photographed the damage. You don’t need to wait for the assessor.

6. When the assessor arrives, provide as much information as possible. This could include photos, social media posts, or videos of the event.

7. Whether insured or not, check your eligibility for any grants. These are often available after major events like this.

8. If you're struggling financially, reach out to your lenders (mortgage, car loan, credit cards, etc.) and ask about hardship assistance options.

9. Replacing lost or destroyed documentation. Document replacement services may be free to people who live in a declared disaster area. More information is available on the Queensland Government website.

10. If you are unhappy with the result of your claim even after disputing with your insurer’s Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR) department, and you wish to take it further: You may wish to make a complaint to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). If you need to go to court, use our Find a Solicitor search tool to source a commercial litigation solicitor in your area.

We recommend reading this Legal Aid Guide designed to help Queenslanders with their insurance claims after a storm, cyclone or flood and details everything you need to know.