January 2026 – As devastating bushfires continue to impact communities across Victoria, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has officially declared a Significant Event.

For homeowners and businesses, this isn’t just a headline—it is a formal trigger that changes how your insurance claim is handled. If you are in the path of these fires or have already suffered a loss, here is what you need to know about the current situation and how to navigate the road to recovery.

What the “Significant Event” Declaration Changes

When a catastrophe of this scale occurs, the ICA coordinates an industry-wide response. For policyholders, this means:

• Triage Prioritisation: Claims from fire-impacted Victorian postcodes are moved to the top of the queue.
• Emergency Funds: Insurers often fast-track “make safe” payments or emergency accommodation funds without waiting for a full assessment.
• On-the-Ground Support: Insurers and loss adjusters are deployed to disaster recovery centers as soon as it is safe to enter.

Why You Should Contact Your Broker Immediately

While you can always call your insurance company directly, this is the exact moment where having an Insurance Broker becomes your greatest asset.

Navigating a claim during a bushfire can be emotionally and logistically overwhelming. Talking to your broker is highly recommended because:

• They Advocate for You: Your broker works for you, not the insurance company. They can push for a fairer or faster settlement if the process stalls.
• They Decode the Fine Print: In the chaos of a “Significant Event,” it’s easy to miss out on benefits like “removal of debris” costs or “temporary housing” limits. Your broker ensures you claim every cent you are entitled to.
• Single Point of Contact: Instead of waiting on hold with a call center for hours, your broker manages the communication with the insurer, allowing you to focus on your family or business.

Note: If you are unsure who your broker is or how to reach them, check your last policy renewal notice or search the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) website.

Immediate Steps to Take

1. Safety First: Do not return to your property until the CFA or Victorian Police give the “All Clear.”
2. Notify Your Broker: Even if you don’t have your policy number, call them. They have your records and can initiate the claim on your behalf immediately.
3. Document via Smartphone: If it is safe to do so, take photos and videos of the damage. Do not throw away any damaged items until an assessor has seen them, unless they pose a health risk.
4. Keep Every Receipt: From the bottle of water bought at a relief center to the hotel room for your family—keep every receipt for potential reimbursement.

The Outlook for 2026

Insurers are currently bracing for worsening conditions throughout the remainder of January. By engaging with your broker now, you ensure you are at the front of the queue before the volume of claims increases further.