Extreme weather dominates Australian school property claims
Australian schools have faced the impact of extreme weather events over the past decade, with 78% of all property insurance claims resulting from the ‘big three’ – storm, fire and floods, according to new QBE claims data released today.
The analysis forms part of QBE’s Safeguarding Australian Schools report that delves into property claims data over the past 10 years, revealing insights into the challenges and mitigation efforts needed to safeguard Australia’s independent education sector.
Pat Priest, General Manager, Commercial, at QBE Australia Pacific, said, “A series of severe weather systems driven by record-breaking La Niña rain events coupled with dry El Niño weather patterns have impacted our schools by damaging classrooms, destroying sports grounds, and impairing key infrastructure.”
“The true extent of the severe weather isn’t realised in many instances until teachers and students head back to school after the summer break to discover leaking roofs, damaged carpets, equipment failures and maintenance issues that have been left unattended over the holidays.”
The data reveals that the year’s shortest month is also the most damaging, with February accounting for more than a quarter of all school property insurance claims. The costliest year across the report’s data was 2022, the third consecutive year in a rare ‘triple-dip’ La Niña and more than $40 million in claims were paid to schools with QBE insurance.
“We know extreme weather events are increasing in severity and frequency, so it’s important for schools to get proactive with their maintenance with many storm-related claims potentially avoided through routine upkeep, such as clearing gutters and drains,” Ms Priest said.
The report includes state-by-state comparisons, showing that Queensland has the highest average claim amounts, followed by Tasmania and the Northern Territory, while New South Wales recorded the highest number of claims overall.
At QBE, we’re more than just an insurer. We work with our customers to help them manage known and emerging risks in the education sector.
From property and liability insurance to specialised risk assessments and recovery support through our 'Makesafe' initiative, we deliver tailored insurance solutions that aim to enhance claims efficiency, build trust, and minimise potential disruption to school operations.
QBE is looking at how it can support schools with their sustainability goals through ESG frameworks and advanced risk mitigation strategies.
“We want to help schools navigate emerging risks, maintaining a safe, compliant and resilient environment for students, staff and the broader community. QBE remains a steadfast partner, dedicated to enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of Australia's educational institutions now and into the future,” added Ms Priest.
To download the report, please visit the QBE website.
For more information:
Natalie Kitchen
Group Head of External Relations
+61 432 419 533
Email: [email protected]