Anyone affected by natural disasters will generally tell you that the biggest challenge in recovering from a national disaster is an emotional one – it is about deciding whether you have the emotional capacity to start again.
That decision is a difficult one for many and that is why the Australian Government and charities like the Red Cross and Salvation Army have already moved to make personal and financial counselling services available in affected areas.
Typically, this decision is made very quickly by business owners but often requires a knowledge of what assistance is available, particularly in respect of lodging insurance claims and accessing any government assistance that may be on offer from State and Federal Governments.
“For that reason, members affected by the bushfires should be aware of two very useful guides” said ACAPMA CEO Mark McKenzie
The first is an important guide on the various assistance programmes that are available to small businesses that have been affected by the fires.
“This document provides a great overview of what government assistance is being provided by all Australian Governments to assist small business owners with the recovery process”, said Mark
“If after reading this document, businesses are experiencing difficulties accessing these services, they are encouraged to contact the ACAPMA Secretariat and we will help navigate the process on their behalf”, said Mark.
The second resource is a guide to making insurance claims that has been prepared by ACAPMA’s insurance partner, Marsh McLennan.
The most important point in respect of this guide is that the vast majority of policies will cover claims preparation costs, including the services of an Independent Claims Consultant who can:
- Advise on strategy/policy response
- Quantify the financial impact
- Prepare detailed & documented submissions
- Seek to maximize the settlement outcome and reduce delays
“As such, ACAPMA’s insurance partner Marsh McLennan has indicated that they are very willing to provide insurance claims assistance and guidance to all ACAPMA members, regardless of who they are currently insured with”, said Mark.
Further information on either of these issues can be obtained by contacting the ACAPMA Secretariat on 1300 160 270.
