Yahoo Finance Cyclone Debbie: CBA provide emergency assistance package for 'catastrophe'
By Oonagh Reidy
The Commonwealth Bank has announced an emergency package for North Queensland customers affected by Cyclone Debbie, unfurling across the region today.
The bank’s pack of measures to support both personal banking and business customers in the midst of the shattering weather event, includes emergency accommodation assistance for CommInsure customers and fast tracking claims, plus taking loan requests to help cover costs in the wake of the cyclone, which made landfall between Bowen and Airlie Beach.
Thousands of claims
The unveiling of the emergency package comes as the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) declared a catastrophe for damage caused by Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie.
Insurers were anticipating thousands of claims, ICA confirmed today.
“Insurers are already taking calls from policyholders, and many have teams standing by to enter the impact zone, assess claims and deliver assistance to their customers,” ICA chief executive Rob Whelan said.
“Anyone needing to lodge a claim should let their insurer know as soon as they can. The insurer can then start processing the claim, and organise any emergency repairs, or temporary accommodation where applicable.”
CBA customers can dial 1300 720 814 and get up-to-date information on branch closures at www.commbank.com.au/info or www.commbank.com.au/emergencyassistance.
