The rain event in the Townsville region has been referred to as “catastrophic” and is on record as the wettest event in Australian History. The monsoon event dumped a massive 2000mm+ of rain in 9 days in Paluma and Townsville itself passed its yearly rain fall average in 7 days, copping 1130mm of rain.

Many residents have suffered damage to either their homes, businesses or both and the effects of this natural disaster will be felt across all of Queensland. When it comes to resilience, Queenslanders know from experience that it takes a lot to bring down a cane toad.

To help with the clean-up, Nu-Tank is offering dry hire of its firefighting trailer range to businesses, authorities and residents of the Townsville region. Nu-Tank is mobilising its stock to Townsville and is slashing 30% off the hire price.

TO BOOK – PLEASE CALL US ON 1300 36 11 10

TO BOOK – PLEASE CALL US ON 1300 36 11 10

We’ve also put together some useful information about cleaning up and how to reach out for government assistance.

THE CLEAN-UP

Thoroughly cleaning buildings after a flood ensures that mould and disease cannot thrive. There are important steps to take when confirming initial post-flood safety, electrical safety and during the strip out and clean process.

ALWAYS TAKE PHOTOS BEFORE YOU START THE CLEAN-UP

Thanks to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission for putting together the following clean-up checklists.

Health & Safety Checklist

Flood Cleaning Checklist

INSURANCE

If your home or belongings have been damaged during a disaster you should contact your insurance broker or company to assess your claim as soon as you can.

It is recommended that you:

• contact your insurer before authorising major repairs
• take photographs of damaged goods, particularly those that you need to dispose of for health reasons, for insurance assessment purposes
• dispose of any water and mud damaged possessions that pose an immediate health hazard
• keep a detailed list of any items and photographs that have been disposed or removed that you want to make an insurance claim for.

No insurance

If you are not insured, underinsured or have no specific insurance coverage, you may be eligible for a grant.

• Essential Household Content Grant
• Structural Assistance Grant
• Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grant.

Source: Queensland Government (https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/recovery-after-disaster/insurance)

Insurance complaints

The first important step is to make sure your insurance company knows you have an issue.

If you’re unhappy with the outcome of your complaint you can lodge a dispute with the Financial Ombudsman Service.

There are also private companies that can help you with your insurance claims. Check out Solve My Claim

GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE

Queensland Government

Emergency assistance payments provided jointly by Federal and State Governments, and administered by the Department of Communities is also available.

Call 1800 173 349

www.communityrecovery.qld.gov.au

Commonwealth Government

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has activated the Australian Government’s Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) which provides $1000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children. AGDRP provides a one-off, non-means tested payment for those who have been adversely affected by the floods. This will be available for people in a number of areas and in changing circumstances it is best to contact the relevant services to check your eligibility.

Those seeking the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment should call 180 22 66  (open 8am – 5pm)

TO BOOK – PLEASE CALL US ON 1300 36 11 10