GenWest has launched a new resource based on insights from community contributors about what they wish they had known before the Maribyrnong River Flood.
Produced in partnership with Maribyrnong City Council, the Flood Insurance Guide: A Maribyrnong Community Initiative provides practical, plain language information and case studies for anyone impacted by future flood events.
More than 500 properties were impacted when the Maribyrnong River breached its banks in the early hours of 14 October 2022. Hundreds of residents were displaced, many of whom are still unable to return to their homes, or are grappling with ongoing challenges related to insurance and repairs.
Insurance was one of the top priorities identified by the Community Recovery Committee (CRC) – comprising representatives from the community – established in the wake of the flood to provide guidance and support to Council to help address issues and barriers that hinder recovery and advocate for positive outcomes.
The resulting Flood Insurance Guide includes clear, accessible information on how and why to take out insurance, how to make a claim and the complaint process. It is available in English and Vietnamese.
The guide features content from legal, financial and recovery experts – as well as tips for mental health and wellbeing during the aftermath of a flood.
City of Maribyrnong Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, said the Guide was a practical, thoughtful resource for residents at risk of flood events in Maribyrnong, and Australia more broadly.
“I am confident this step-by-step guide will benefit those wanting to understand how to protect their assets with easy to understand information from experts, along with valuable insights from community members who have lived experience,” he said.
The CRC has been instrumental in supporting Council with guidance on recovery needs since the 2022 flood, which led to this guide. “We are also grateful for the contributions of the broader Maribyrnong community in its development,” Mayor Tiwari added.
This project was jointly funded through the Victorian and Australian Governments through the Community Recovery Hubs program.
“GenWest facilitated safe spaces for affected communities to share their insurance experiences, and partner agencies generously contributed expert knowledge and resources. We are deeply grateful for this collaborative effort, and hope it will support people navigate the insurance process with greater ease.”
Dale Wakefield, GenWest CEO
