The experiences of storm and flood-hit residents across the Central West, largely left high and dry by their insurers, will be front and centre at the upcoming parliamentary inquiry into insurers’ handling of the 2022 floods.
Following representations by Independent Member for Calare Andrew Gee, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones confirmed, in response to a question raised by Mr Gee in Question Time, that the scope of the inquiry would now include the affordability and availability of insurance for customers in disaster-zones.
“The stories of our disaster-hit residents, who faced horrific torrents of water only to be hung out to dry by their insurance companies, must be heard,” said Mr Gee.
“The cruelty of insurance companies, in denying claim after claim in our devastated communities, must be brought to light. Change needs to come from this.
“Minister Jones confirmed that it was through listening to our stories, like those shared by Sarah Bone from 17 Shades Hair Salon in Molong, Kaylene Philpott from the Molong Post Office and Newsagency, and Brian and Lesley Smith from Eugowra, that made him see that a broader scope for the inquiry into insurance was needed,” Mr Gee said.
“The insurance policies that people take out is to protect themselves against the impacts of these tragedies, are there to smooth financial impacts, and they should not be adding to the anxiety of the disaster because of the mismanagement of the claims process,” Minister Jones said