Youi has warned bushfire-prone homeowners to prepare after its research found only half of survey respondents were concerned about the risk.  

The insurer surveyed more than 1000 Australians living in bushfire areas, and 26% of respondents admitted they were unprepared.  

Some 32% were unaware their property was in a bushfire-prone area, with older Australians showing less awareness than younger counterparts.  

Residents in NSW, Queensland and Tasmania had the least risk awareness, while 21% of those previously impacted by fires – including 13% who had to evacuate – believed they were no longer at risk.  

Young Australians are concerned about being unprepared for a fire event, with Gen Z and Millennials also reporting higher emotional strain from such an event.  

However, the insurer says there were positive findings, with 52% of owners showing a “strong level of awareness”. 

The insurer says it has launched a new bushfire preparedness hub to help provide customers with tools and information.   

“We’ve received over 1000 bushfire-related claims in the past 10 years and know how devastating it can be,” Youi head of marketing Dave Annesley said. “Simple steps can go a long way, and we want Aussies to get on top of them.”  

 The bushfire preparedness hub is available here.