About 20 per cent of Seroja insurance claims yet to be completed due to resource shortages, high demand

About 20 per cent of insurance claims stemming from cyclone Seroja have yet to be completed, with market pressures and resource shortages cited as contributors to the delay. Monday marked 12 months since Seroja wreaked havoc on 16 local government areas in the Mid West, Gascoyne and Wheatbelt, with construction yet to begin on many repair and rebuild projects. State Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson said he had heard “devastating” stories from locals who have been unable to proceed with works because of insurance delays. “I’ve recently visited a number of the impacted communities who, while appreciating the support they have received, have also very clearly expressed their distress and frustrations over their dealings with certain insurance companies and the insurance process,” he said. “A number of insurance companies have played their role, however, the feedback from community members has been a number of these companies are not supporting their customers as they should.” An Insurance Council of Australia spokesperson said chief executive Andrew Hall met with Mr Dawson earlier this month to discuss the rebuild process and concerns over insurance delays. “Both agreed to work together to expedite the closure of outstanding claims while acknowledging the impact supply chain and skill shortages have had on the recovery of Seroja impacted communities,” they said. “As of March 23, 2022, there has been 9319 claims lodged for damage from Seroja, with 99.44 per cent accepted and 85.45 per cent of 6405 personal claims closed. The current estimated loss value is $351.4 million. “Claims continue to be lodged one year on, with a further 46 claims lodged in March.” The spokesperson said the 20 per cent of claims yet to be completed could indicate repair or rebuild work is not finished, or it could be due to paperwork not being finalised.