The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has activated its significant event response plan following the Victorian Earthquake being declared a significant event by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA). The significant event response plan is activated for events that can potentially result in significant numbers of related complaints coming to AFCA. It provides for early communication with relevant stakeholders and a more streamlined, expedited process for the resolution of related complaints.
Have you been affected?
If you have been affected by the Victorian Earthquake we encourage you to contact your insurance company.
For help with the claims process, or if you are unable to contact your insurance company, please call the Insurance Council of Australia disaster hotline on 1800 734 621.
How we can help you
AFCA offers free and accessible dispute resolution services to consumers and small businesses impacted by this event. If you have raised a complaint with your insurance company but you have been unable to resolve the matter, you can then come to us for assistance. Please note, we are only able to consider your complaint once you have raised the matter with your insurer.
If you encounter difficulties relating to your insurance claims which you are unable to resolve directly with your insurer, you can register your complaint with us using our online complaint form or by calling 1800 931 678. More information about the process we follow to resolve complaints is available on our website.
Financial hardship
People affected by natural disasters can experience both short-term and long-term financial difficulties. Banks and other financial services providers generally provide assistance to customers in cases of genuine hardship.
If you encounter difficulties relating to a financial hardship application, you can make a complaint to us online, or call us on 1800 931 678.
More information on natural disasters and financial hardship can be found in this factsheet.
Please make sure you notify us that you have been affected by the Victorian Earthquake when you make your complaint.
