Australia can experience multiple cyclones every year. Cyclones typically occur between November and April according to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, and can produce winds greater than 200km per hour, hail, flooding rains, lightning, and storm surge.
These events can be devastating to communities. Preparing your home as recommended by your state emergency service can reduce the damage to your property and help protect you from the financial and emotional impact of cyclones.
Information to assist
Before
- Secure your home:
- Check for loose materials and remove or secure items (such as, garden furniture, toys, trampolines, or flags) that could cause damage if blown around in high winds or swept away in flood waters.
- Clear out your gutters, downpipes and drains to prevent blockages.
- Trim trees and branches back.
- Ensure your roof, windows, and shutters are secure.
- If possible, move your vehicle(s) under cover.
- Ensure your emergency plan and emergency kit are easily accessible.
During
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- If outdoors, move indoors away from windows. Avoid areas with trees, drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.
- If you're driving, beware of any fallen trees and do not seek shelter under a tree. Seek shelter at a petrol station or other covered structure if possible. Do not continue to drive if dangerous to do so. Pull over and angle the vehicle so any hail stones or debris are hitting the reinforced front windscreen.
After
- Check your property for damage.
- If you have damaged property you'll be claiming for, take photos/videos and/or keep a record of model numbers.
- Throw away any food remaining in your refrigerator.
- Stay away from dangerous hazards, such as fallen powerlines, damaged roads, and floodwaters.
- Check your state emergency service or local broadcast for updates and additional safety recommendations.
Next steps for a home insurance claim
- Lodge your claim - once you've lodged your claim, we will organise temporary repairs to help minimise further damage.
- Record your lost items – while you clean up and we finalise requirements, if you have any damaged items you’ll be claiming for, please take photos and keep a record of model numbers if possible.
- Assess the damage - we'll work with you to assess the extent of damage to your home and prepare a list of repair work required. As repairs commence, if further work is identified, the list will be adjusted accordingly.
- Ready for repair - once the list of repairs has been agreed on, our builder will confirm a start date and we’ll keep you informed throughout the repair process.
- Return home - if you have been in temporary accommodation, you'll be able to move back into your home once repairs have been completed.
Useful links
Flood
Hail & Storm
Bushfire
