Wollongong flood recovery efforts spotlight insurance gaps

Wollongong flood recovery efforts spotlight insurance gaps | Insurance Business Australia

Catastrophe & Flood

Wollongong flood recovery efforts spotlight insurance gaps

Other flood impacts outlined

Catastrophe & Flood

By
Roxanne Libatique

In the coastal city of Wollongong, specifically within the Thirroul neighbourhood, families are beginning the daunting task of cleanup following devastating floods that have left many without insurance coverage facing an uncertain recovery path.

According to ABC’s report, among those affected is the MacDonald family, who had barely settled into their Thirroul home when they were forced to flee from rising floodwaters that swiftly invaded their residence.

Flood insurance in Wollongong

The flooding has brought to light the critical issue of flood insurance. For residents like the MacDonalds, who found themselves without flood coverage, the financial repercussions of the disaster are particularly stark.

“We don’t have flood insurance; my partner has just been made redundant,” Jemima MacDonald told ABC. “What are we going to do, how are we going to survive this?”

The Wollongong Council has been proactive in its response, with officials assessing the damage and engaging with the community on recovery efforts.

“[Officials] have a social responsibility as well in terms of the impact that their behaviour has on other residents in terms of [the] possibility [of] causing blockages as well,” said Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery.

Impacts of flood on Wollongong

The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) has reported extensive damage to properties, with a significant number assessed as uninhabitable. In response to the crisis, disaster relief funds have been activated by state and federal governments, targeting a broad range of impacted areas within and around Wollongong.