The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has offered to make disaster experts available to advise Tasmania’s Huon Valley Council on flood protection.

The area is experiencing its worst flooding in 20 years, prompting Mayor Peter Coad to call for mitigation measures to safeguard homes and businesses.

ICA CEO Rob Whelan says the industry body can provide technical expertise and guidance on the potential implications of measures such as flood levees.

“Flood mapping held by ICA shows more than 50 land parcels in Huonville are exposed to some degree of flood risk,” he said.

“Across the whole of Tasmania the number rises to more than 77,000.

“ICA has helped local governments across Australia with their mitigation planning endeavours, and would gladly provide similar assistance to Huon Valley Council.”

This week the council will hold two forums for Tasmanian policyholders affected by storms and flooding during last month’s east coast low storms.

Mr Whelan says the meetings will cover key aspects of the recovery process, including claims management, rebuilding and dispute resolution.

“Policyholders will be able to sit down with a representative from their insurer or a relevant expert to discuss any concerns or issues they may have about their claim,” he said.

“The forums are open only to householders and businesses who have lodged claims, which preserves their privacy and allows insurers to focus their resources on those who need the most assistance.”

Representatives from ICA, insurance companies, legal aid and the Financial Ombudsman Service will attend.

Registration is required for the events in Latrobe on Wednesday and Burnie on Thursday from 6.30pm-8pm.

People interested in attending must call 1800 734 621, with registrations closing at noon on the day of each forum.

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