Farmers and small business owners facing legal problems related to the catastrophic 2019-20 bushfires can access free, confidential legal help from specialised insurance, credit and debt lawyers and financial counsellors.
Financial Rights Legal Centre Chief Executive Officer Karen Cox said while our thoughts today turn to people who have suffered loss amidst the devastation of the NSW floods, there are many people still reeling from the impact of the catastrophic 2019-20 bushfires.
"Many Australians have faced added stresses following the devastation of losing their properties because of difficulties and significant delays with their insurance claims," Ms Cox said.
"Hundreds of individuals and families have found themselves under-insured or uninsured leaving them unable to replace their homes or other property including vehicles, outbuildings, livestock and fencing. For some, they are now facing storm and flood damage as well. "
More than 3000 homes were destroyed and 17 million hectares burned across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, ACT, Western Australia and South Australia.
Financial Rights Legal Centre is a community legal centre that can provide free legal advice and financial counselling to help for consumers, farmers, primary producers and small businesses affected by the bushfires.
The Financial Rights Insurance Law Service is a key repository of insurance law expertise with extensive resources and experience in dealing with insurance issues.
Ms Cox said Financial Rights had specialised lawyers and financial counsellors who understood problems people face when their properties are damaged or destroyed by natural disasters including bushfires, COVID-19, hail, storm and drought.
"We are assisting many people who face significant ongoing delays with repairs with some left without safe accommodation because insurers generally only cover rental costs up to 12 months.
"Others are continuing to battle through disputes with insurers over repair valuations, insufficient cash settlements, unfair policy terms and conditions and confusing exclusions.
"People in these circumstances do not have to struggle alone, there is a wealth of free, confidential expertise available at Financial Rights."
