The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has scheduled six in-person forums in northern NSW to assist policyholders hit by the recent flooding.

Each forum will include a presentation and opportunity for policyholders to raise concerns or ask questions and there will also be break-out sessions where people can speak with company representatives.

“Many people affected in the Northern Rivers region in NSW are seeking an understanding of their insurance policy and how it responds to this severe weather event, as well as the next steps in the recovery process,” ICA CEO Andrew Hall said.

“We want to make this process as simple as possible for the policyholders impacted in this region, which is why our team will be on the ground to listen to community concerns and offer advice.”

The forums will be held in Murwillumbah on May 23, Mullumbimby on May 24, Lismore on May 25, Grafton on May 31, Casino on June 1 and Lennox Heads on June 2.

ICA is also hosting a “virtual townhall” on Thursday to help east coast flood victims understand the claims process and complaints avenues.

The event will include presentations by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority and Legal Aid, followed by an opportunity for questions.

The catastrophe that hit Queensland and NSW in February and March is Australia’s worst flood event on record, with almost 200,000 claims so far worth more than $3.34 billion.

Bookings for the in-person forums and the online event are essential and can be made here.