IAG is trialling Starlink micro-terminals that provide satellite internet connections in areas suffering outages. 

The insurer deployed the portable terminals in its fleet of NRMA Insurance vehicles and mobile claims centres to help hundreds of customers affected by Ex-Cyclone Alfred. 

It meant policyholders could access internet services and its claims specialists and assessors could arrange immediate support, including temporary accommodation and financial help. 

IAG says the technology bolstered its response and will help more communities after extreme weather events.

Having no power or internet can pose a safety risk to people who need immediate support, the insurer says.  

“The Starlink micro-terminals are a game-changer, allowing our assessors to process property damage reports in real time, stay connected and bring our mobile claims centres to locations ... where customers most need our help,” NRMA Insurance EM of property claims fulfilment Scott Lindsay said. 

IAG assessors often submit damage reports at people’s homes, so they can be actioned immediately by emergency repair and builder networks. 

“That’s only possible with reliable internet coverage for our people in the field,” Mr Lindsay said. “Any delay due to needing to drive to find phone or internet connectivity impacts the speed at which we can arrange get those emergency repairs under way.” 

The micro-terminal connectivity switches between 4G, 5G and satellite networks, allowing IAG’s teams to make calls over Wi-Fi and file reports. 

Marcus Grimes, VP of product, enterprise and business at telco Optus, said: “It’s essentially a solution that’s the size of a briefcase, so it’s easy to throw in the boot and drive around with and it’s rugged enough to withstand the elements.”