As of 12:30pm today, RACQ had received 183 insurance claims, including 146 home and contents and 37 motor vehicle claims, since the cyclone first hit the region, with numbers expected to increase in the coming days as the floodwaters recede.

Group Chief Executive Officer David Carter said RACQ’s teams have been in the region to support members since Tropical Cyclone Jasper crossed the coast last week and are committed to supporting members and the local community over the coming weeks.  

“People’s safety is paramount and I urge the community to stay safe over the coming days and follow the advice of emergency services,” Mr Carter said.

“If you need urgent help, call your local SES on 132 500 and if you see an electrical risk call Energex on 13 19 62. 

“RACQ is experienced at managing large weather events and we are mobilising our resources to assist members as best we can given the current situation.

“Over the past week, we have been communicating with affected members directly by SMS and email to provide support and claims advice.”

Mr Carter assured members that RACQ’s home and contents policies cover claims arising from cyclone, storm and storm surge events.

“When it’s safe and people can assess the damage, we encourage members to lodge a claim as quickly as possible,” Mr Carter said.

“Once a claim is lodged we can arrange emergency make-safe work, organise temporary accommodation if your home has been severely damaged and provide cash payments for emergencies. 

“For a quick and easy process, members have the option to lodge their claim online and upload photos of damage via the online portal.

“Alternatively, they can call us on 13 72 02,” he said.

RACQ Bank is also offering support to members experiencing financial hardship as a result of this weather event.

“We know many of our members will be doing it tough in the days and weeks ahead. I would encourage those experiencing financial vulnerability to let us know as soon as possible, so we can work with them to identify how we can best provide support,” Mr Carter said.

“Members can contact RACQ Bank on 13 19 05 or fill out an application online at racq.com/hardship”. 

Preparing your claim:

• If you are able to safely return to your home:
• Making notes and taking photos of your belongings will make it easier to submit any claims
• It’s OK to throw away all spoiled food in your refrigerator- you don’t need to wait for an assessor to visit your home. Take a picture
• Keep a record of model numbers or serial numbers of items you are throwing away to help us replace them
• It’s OK to remove material and fabrics such as carpets if they are wet to avoid mould growing. Take a photo to help with replacement
• Make a list of essentials you will need to replace, such as bedding, clothing and food. Keep all receipts from these purchases
• Remember safety is the number one priority

What to do during a flood:

• After a cyclone has passed, serious safety threats can remain.
• Only use a generator in well-ventilated areas
• Watch out for dangerous wildlife, such as spiders and snakes, which may have entered your property
• Check all power and gas supplies have been turned off if the building has sustained any damage
• Stay well-hydrated and wear a sunscreen and a hat if working outdoors
• Avoid contact with floodwater if possible