The insurance industry has come under fire from governments and consumers over flooding, but the latest edition of Insurance News (the magazine), examines the considerable work the industry is putting into improving flood cover, and its proposals for change. 

The August/September issue, being mailed out this week, focuses on issues around the summer floods. It examines the latest technology available in understanding flood dynamics and pinpoints the most flood-prone areas of the country, including a former agricultural area that is now rapidly developing for new communities on the fringes of Sydney.

As the anniversary of the first Christchurch earthquake approaches, this edition also looks at some the precedents set by the series of tremors and what they will mean for the insurance industry.

Earthquakes, tsunamis and tornadoes cost billions of dollars in the first half, and have put catastrophe modelling under the microscope as the modellers’ assumptions and cost forecasts impact on risk tolerance and the cost of cover.

Insurance News (the magazine) provides an opportunity to speak to industry leaders about their views and strategies and this month industry veteran Bill Berkley discusses innovative ways to maintain returns to investors.

We also examine technology strategies as many in the profession ponder the relevance to their business of social media like Facebook and Twitter.

Broker Joe Vella also unveils his “labour of love” – the restoration of an old Cairns movie theatre into his award-winning head office.

Insurance News (the magazine) provides an opportunity to follow industry people in the news. With more than 7200 subscribers across Australia, it’s the largest-circulation magazine tailored exclusively for the general insurance industry.