The industry’s claims handling after natural catastrophes will be examined at the Australian Insurance Law Association national conference in September.

A panel featuring Insurance Council of Australia COO Kylie Macfarlane, BMS Group account director Ben McKinnie and Sedgwick EGM home claims and building services Daniel Sirone will discuss the topic.

“Panellists will suggest there needs to be better education about risk because climate change means natural catastrophes now occur more frequently,” AILA said. “They also agree homeowners need to optimise outcomes from their insurance purchases by ensuring properties are well maintained and therefore less vulnerable when disasters occur.”

Mr Sirone says practical initiatives such as flood barriers could mitigate against big claims.

He says maintaining clarity after a natural disaster is important.

“Many people see insurance as a grudge purchase, but the industry responds and pays claims when events occur,” he said. “Thousands of colleagues in the industry display great skill, knowledge and experience to help people and businesses in their time of need.”

The conference is from September 11-13 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.