Help with insurance and legal issues for storm recovery is on its way

Published on 11 May 2017

Experts in the areas of finance, law and dispute resolution will be on hand in Sunraysia next week to help individuals, businesses and farmers in their recovery from the 11 November storms.

With many in the community still battling insurance, repair and assessment issues, Mildura Rural City Council has identified the need for further assistance and support specifically around financial, legal and mediation matters.

It is estimated that it will take the local agriculture sector two to three years to return to full production after the storms. At present, unresolved insurance and legal issues are most impacting locals.

Two separate sessions will take place on Monday, 15 May, with a lunchtime session in Merbein and an early evening session in Red Cliffs in a bid to address these issues.

The four professionals speaking at the sessions will also be available on Tuesday, 16 May for one-on-one appointments to discuss specific matters with individuals.

Mildura Rural City Councillor for Community Safety Simon Clemence urged residents to take advantage of this opportunity.

“Despite the Remembrance Day storm hitting the district six month ago, many residents and farmers are still feeling its impacts severely, particularly in the Merbein, Red Cliffs and Cardross areas,” Cr Clemence said.

“This is a unique opportunity to hear from, and speak face-to-face with experts who can provide help and guidance in a whole range of areas relating to the recovery process following the storms.”

Tom Cobban from Berrill & Watson, who specialises in insurance law and regularly works with people in regional areas, will be one of the guest experts. He will speak on general insurance claims principles, including who has the onus of proving loss, as well as and tips for disputing insurer decisions.

Personal and corporate insolvency will be discussed by Justin Howlett from Sellers Muldoon Benton. Justin specialises in assisting regional business advisors and their clients with situations involving distressed business and/or personal solvency concerns, and has an acute awareness of regional issues.

Dispute resolution advice will be provided by Peter Fisher of the Financial Ombudsman Service Australia, with financial and small business issues to be discussed by Judy O’Connell from the Victorian Small Business Commissioner.

The aim of the assistance sessions is to connect the community to professional advice and assistance to address the issues most needed by those impacted by the 11 November storms.

Event details:
Monday, 15 May 2017
12-2pm, Merbein Community Hub, Main Avenue, Merbein
Sausage sizzle provided. Child minding provided.

5.30-7.30pm, Scozzie Shindigz 61 Indi Ave, Red Cliffs
Finger food provided.