A new smartphone app from Suncorp and James Cook University will show Queenslanders how to cyclone-proof their homes.

Daniel Smith, a wind engineer and research fellow at the university’s Cyclone Testing Station, is leading the project after receiving a $180,000 state government grant, which was subsequently matched by Suncorp.

“There are some simple, low-cost mitigation actions that can pay for themselves after just one cyclone,” he said. “With others, the cost-benefit calculation is more complex. This app will guide people through those decisions.”

The tool will use an engineering analysis of housing in various cyclone-prone locations, plus a behavioural study on what motivates people to mitigate their risks.

“Understanding why some people undertake damage mitigation and why others don’t will help us tailor incentive programs and target our communication more effectively,” Dr Smith said.

Suncorp Insurance will contribute claims data and expertise towards the project.

CEO Anthony Day says the app is another important step towards better protecting northern Australian families against cyclones.

“This research is an extension of our long-term partnership with the Cyclone Testing Station, and another example of our commitment to mitigation,” he said.

“Through our cyclone resilience benefit, we are already rewarding homeowners who have strengthened their homes against cyclones with premium reductions.”