The number of claims lodged after Ex-Cyclone Alfred has reached 53,182, and the Insurance Council of Australia is encouraging tradespeople from other states to join the recovery effort.

The cyclone was rapidly downgraded as it made landfall last weekend, but some communities in southeast Queensland and northern NSW were hit by significant flooding, and an insurance catastrophe was declared. Most of the claims so far (49,226) are from Queensland.

ICA says it today released an expression of interest form to encourage tradespeople from interstate or New Zealand to connect with insurers and their builders to assist with rebuilding. After catastrophes, shortages of trades can often lead to delays.

Electricians, builders, plasterers and roofers are encouraged to provide details of their expertise and availability, and this information will be passed to insurers.

ICA is also engaging with Queensland authorities on automatic mutual recognition of qualifications, to ensure rapid onboarding of workers.

“While insurers are progressing claims made following Ex-TC Alfred and have stood up their own resources, this trial EOI initiative can provide insurers with additional resources should they be required,” ICA CEO Andrew Hall said.

“It allows interstate tradespeople with the right expertise and availability to not only secure work but contribute towards the community’s ongoing recovery. 

“Importantly, trialling this initiative now provides the industry with a template for future, larger events when interstate surge workforces may be required. 

“We encourage all qualified builders and tradespeople to express their interest to help communities recover as quickly as possible.”

Click here to express interest in the scheme.