The Insurance Council of Australia and the NSW Reconstruction Authority have formed a partnership to strengthen co-ordination before, during and after disasters.

The partnership establishes clearer arrangements for sharing information, undertaking joint planning and collaborating earlier to support disaster-hit communities.

A new memorandum of understanding will recognise insurers’ participation in recovery operations, including at recovery centres and through community outreach, helping people and businesses access information and support throughout their recovery.

“After a disaster, communities need government, insurers and other recovery partners working together and sharing information so people can get the support they need as quickly as possible,” NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Kate Fitzgerald said.

“This agreement gives us a clearer mechanism to do that, from sharing information that helps us understand what is happening on the ground to co-ordinating support through recovery centres and community outreach.

“Importantly, it also strengthens the work we can do before disasters occur, bringing government and the insurance sector together to identify challenges, improve preparedness and plan for recovery.

ICA CEO Andrew Hall said: “Since 2022, insurers have received more than $4.79 billion worth of claims in NSW alone as a result of extreme weather.

“By working more closely together, we can improve information sharing, identify emerging community needs earlier, and help affected residents and businesses navigate what is often a challenging recovery journey.”