Commonwealth Bank offers North QLD emergency assistance for Cyclone Kirrily

In the wake of Tropical Cyclone Kirrily's impact on North Queensland, Commonwealth Bank is stepping up with a vital Emergency Assistance package for those in the affected communities.

Commonwealth Bank's Retail Banking Services Group Executive, Angus Sullivan, expressed solidarity with the affected residents and outlined the available support measures, which include (for those eligible):

• Flexible loan and credit adjustments
• Fee waivers for various banking services
• Options for temporary overdrafts, extra loans or credit limit increases (subject to approval)
• Early Term Deposit access with waived fees
• Potential emergency accommodation for eligible Hollard home insurance customers
• Assistance with Hollard home insurance claims
• Business loan restructuring options
• Support for damaged or temporary merchant EFTPOS terminals, including fee waivers

“Our thoughts are with those in Queensland who are affected by the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Kirrily, and we are here to support our customers and employees. We are offering customers a range of tailored support options and our website has the most up-to-date branch and service information,” Sullivan said.

You can learn more about what benefits are available by visiting the CommBank natural disasters support page or call their Emergency Assist hotline at 1800 314 695.

Additional resources

Commonwealth Bank isn't the only entity stepping up to provide crucial support. Here are additional resources that can be valuable for those affected by Cyclone Kirrily.

Queensland Community Recovery Hubs

Currently in Burdekin, Bluewater, Deeragun, Garbutt, Rasmussen and Townsville. Providing financial assistance and face-to-face support to those eligible. For more information and the hotline, visit Queensland Community Recovery or call 1800 173 349.

Local Food Banks and Charities

• Lighthouse Care. Providing emergency food and support. More at Lighthouse Care.     
• Goodna Street Life. Support for the homeless and vulnerable. Visit Goodna Street Life.
• ADRA community care centre. Emergency food relief and services. Details at ADRA Australia.
  

Disaster Assist

Federal portal for disaster recovery information and assistance across Australia. Access at Disaster Assist.

Insurance Council of Australia ‘Who is my insurer’ form

If you can’t access your insurance information and need help identifying your insurer, the Insurance Council of Australia has a form you can fill out, and they’ll help you locate the right place to call. You can find the form here.

Tips for claiming on your home insurance

Navigating your home insurance claim after Cyclone Kirrily can be smoother with these steps:

• Document the damage. First, record all the damages. Capture everything with photos or videos, as they'll be key when you file your claim.
• Understand your policy. Take a close look at your insurance policy. It's crucial to know what's covered, especially for cyclone-related damages.
• Contact your insurer. Reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Lost all your paperwork and don't know who to call? The ICA’s ‘Who is my insurer form’ can help you figure it out.
• Provide full details. When you file your claim, include every detail. The more information you provide, the better.
• Keep a record of conversations. Note down all your interactions with your insurance provider – it could be helpful later on.
• Save receipts for repairs. If you've had to make emergency repairs, keep all the receipts. You might be able to claim these expenses.
• Be alert to scams. Post-disaster, some may take advantage. Ensure any tradespeople you hire are reputable.
• Seek help if needed. If you're finding the process overwhelming, don't hesitate to get advice from a financial counsellor or legal advisor.

With the support available from Commonwealth Bank's emergency measures and the range of community and government resources, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Here’s to navigating the next steps with confidence.