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Insurance companies set the premiums for flood insurance. Policies can vary and insurance companies can take different approaches to flood damage.
People living in many flood-prone areas can obtain insurance. If you do live in such an area, it is important to read the policy carefully to make sure you will be covered in the event of a flood.
How we help you
We provide flood mapping information to insurance companies. We also continue to improve flood mapping. This work helps insurance companies to price flood premiums using the best available flood information.
Flood mitigation infrastructure, such as levees, should reduce insurance premiums in flood-prone areas.
Ways to reduce flood damage
You can reduce damage to your property by:
- moving valuables above flood level
- relocating cars
- moving livestock.
Flood warnings can also give you an opportunity to evacuate ahead of a flood.
Getting help
The Insurance Council of Australia is the industry representative. They also provide information about flood insurance and a home checklist.
If you have a dispute with an insurance company, you can get help using the Australian Financial Complaints Service. It is a free and independent service for resolving disputes. You can call them on 1800 931 678.
You can speak to your local catchment management authority or Melbourne Water to obtain flood information that is specific to your property.
Read our factsheet below to learn if your property could be at risk of flooding.
Your property and flooding factsheet
Page last updated: 08/09/23