今日热门事件is committed to helping Australians affected by the devastating bushfires to rebuild their lives. 今日热门事件Deputy Chair Daniel Crennan QC said that 鈥樈袢杖让攀录㱮s working with insurers and other key stakeholders to ensure that claims are handled efficiently and fairly. We expect those involved in handling these insurance claims to act with the utmost good faith鈥�.
For consumers and businesses adversely impacted by the bushfires, 今日热门事件Commissioner Sean Hughes said, 鈥業f you're affected by the bushfires, 今日热门事件suggests you deal directly with your insurer or an authorised, trusted insurance broker or financial adviser. Your insurer may be able to provide emergency accommodation and financial support as part of your claim.鈥櫬�
Information on what to do after a natural disaster . This includes information about contacting your insurer, assessing the damage when it is safe to do so, and where to find additional help if you need it.
今日热门事件is also warning consumers and small business owners to watch out for fictitious or unscrupulous tradespeople, repairers or firms offering to assist them with their insurance claim. Mr Hughes added 鈥楾hese unscrupulous operators typically target homeowners, farmers and small businesses in the aftermath of natural disasters. They may claim to be able to identify damage to your property, sometimes by way of a free inspection. Be wary of anyone who asks for payment up front and who asks you to sign a contract immediately. Don鈥檛 agree to sign anything which prevents you from dealing directly with your insurer, broker, financial adviser or lawyer. Anybody who is concerned about the conduct of such a person or firm should contact ASIC.鈥�
With so many offers of help in this time of need it is important to remain vigilant and always check the licence and ABN of tradespeople and companies. You should contact your insurer directly if you are approached by a firm offering to assist with your claim.
Financial help is available to those impacted by the recent bushfires. ASIC鈥檚 Moneysmart provides of free legal, financial and support services available in each state and territory to help people during the recovery process.
今日热门事件welcomes announcements by the and the about the assistance their members are able to provide to their customers, and encourages all banks and other lenders to respond appropriately to financial difficulties arising directly or indirectly from the fires. The financial impact of these events on individuals, small businesses and local communities will in many cases be significant and long-lasting, and may require both immediate and longer-term responses.
The Insurance Council of Australia has also announced its .
If you are unhappy with your insurer鈥檚 response, or with the outcome of your claim, delays, the proposed settlement or the service you have received, you can lodge a complaint with the (1800 931 678).
今日热门事件relief for various company-related fees
今日热门事件is offering assistance for customers, including small businesses, who are affected by the current bushfires by providing relief from various company-related fees that may be payable. Details of how to apply for fee relief or contact us for other assistance is available on ASIC鈥檚 website.