NIBA Extends Support to the Grampians Community in the Aftermath of Devastating Bushfires
NIBA was part of a community forum that took place last Wednesday at Halls Gap in Victoria, in the aftermath of devastating bushfires that impacted the Grampians region in December.
The community forum was hosted by Federal Member for Mallee, Dr Anne Webster MP, and included key representatives from the insurance industry, including NIBA, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Rural Financial Counselling Service.
This was an important opportunity for the industry to come together and extend support to those who have been affected by the bushfires, as well as share valuable information and resources necessary to get back on your feet following a natural disaster.
NIBA CEO Richard Klipin expressed his support for the Grampians community, saying: “Our thoughts are with every individual, family, and business impacted by these bushfires and we wish them well.”
“The impact of natural disasters, both locally and around the world, has been front and centre this summer and the resilience of our communities in dealing with these challenges cannot be underestimated.
“Insurance brokers play a critical role in helping affected families, businesses and communities to recover following a natural disaster. An important part of this process is hearing directly from impacted communities who require support,” Klipin added.
Abbie Wilson, Director at National Insurance Brokers, representing NIBA at the forum, said: “NIBA stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Grampians community in the wake of these bushfires. Our priority as brokers is to help ensure that those impacted get access to the right resources they need to recover and rebuild.”
Liam Walter, Director of Mitigation and Extreme Weather at the ICA said: “The Grampians is unfortunately no stranger to natural disasters of this scale, with the most recent bushfires being the second time in twelve months that community members have been impacted by significant fires causing direct and indirect damage to businesses, property and community assets.”
Walter noted the key role that community forums play in making sure that insurance advice is accessible.
“These community forums offer a valuable opportunity for policyholders to connect directly with their insurer, learn about the claims process, and access resources to navigate their recovery,” Walter said.
NIBA is committed to ensuring that insurance remains affordable and accessible for all Australians. Insurance brokers are key intermediaries, acting as trusted partners for their clients, helping ensure that Australian families, businesses and communities continue to thrive.