Travel insurers have expanded support services for Australians caught up in the Middle East conflict, with round-the-clock assistance now available to customers in affected areas.
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) said insurers are providing dedicated 24/7 access to help coordinate medical treatment and prioritise assistance for policyholders in impacted countries. Travellers requiring help are being urged to contact their insurer directly.
Insurers have confirmed that coverage periods will be extended for customers whose travel plans have been disrupted by airport and airspace closures. Those who have experienced financial loss are encouraged to submit a claim, even if they are uncertain whether their policy applies.
While exclusions relating to war and conflict are standard across most insurance products worldwide, insurers said they remain committed to assisting customers wherever possible. Losses unrelated to acts of war, including medical expenses, continue to be covered, with claims assessed individually on their merits.
To strengthen coordination across the sector, the ICA has declared the Middle East conflict a Significant Event. The declaration enables the industry and government to better assess and respond to the impact on Australian travellers.
Under the Significant Event framework, an industry-wide taskforce has been established and claims data collection and analysis has commenced. ICA representatives are also working with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to ensure a coordinated response for Australians affected overseas.
Australians in the region are being advised to follow official guidance from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and to monitor updates on the Smartraveller website.
ICA chief executive Andrew Hall said the conflict would continue to disrupt international travel but stressed that customer safety remains paramount.
“The conflict in the Middle East will continue to cause disruption to the world’s travel network, but insurers’ number one priority for their customers is their safety and security,” he said.
He encouraged travellers currently overseas or planning to travel to speak with their insurer if they believe they have suffered a loss.
“Each claim is assessed on its own merit and insurers are equipped with the information needed to support those impacted,” Mr Hall said.
He added that Smartraveller remains the authoritative source of travel advice and urged travellers to remain in contact with their airline or travel agent regarding transport arrangements, as well as their insurer should they require assistance.
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