In the wake of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s severe impact on Queensland and New South Wales, nib Travel has swiftly extended crucial insurance coverage to aid stranded travellers. This decision underscores the company’s commitment to providing practical support during unpredictable natural disasters, marking an essential reassurance for those affected.
Over the weekend, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred ravaged coastal regions, unleashing torrential rains and powerful winds that disrupted travel, triggered extensive flooding, closed major roads, and resulted in widespread flight cancellations. The severe weather conditions left numerous travellers facing considerable uncertainty and distress, particularly those on smaller, more isolated Australian islands.
Acknowledging these travellers’ unique challenges, nib Travel’s General Manager of International & Partnerships, Dylan Wilkinson, has announced a timely and empathetic extension to existing insurance policies. Travellers who held a nib Travel insurance policy purchased before 11 a.m. on Sunday, 2 March 2025, and found themselves impacted by disruptions to public transport will benefit from an automatic five-day extension of their coverage.
“We recognise that travellers caught up in severe weather events require additional support,” stated Wilkinson. “Typically, our policies include a standard 48-hour extension period for disruptions. However, given the scale and ongoing impact of Cyclone Alfred, we’ve proactively extended this coverage to five days, ensuring people have ample time to safely return home.”
This extended coverage is particularly critical for travellers stranded on remote islands, such as Lord Howe Island, where limited flight availability has compounded travel disruptions. Wilkinson specifically highlighted the plight of these travellers, emphasising nib Travel’s readiness to help.
“Lord Howe Island has experienced particularly severe disruptions,” he explained. “Flights to and from such islands are infrequent at the best of times, and the current storm conditions have made timely returns nearly impossible. Extending our insurance cover provides essential peace of mind and practical assistance to travellers affected.”
Policyholders whose coverage was scheduled to expire after 2 March 2025 will automatically have their policy terms adjusted. Wilkinson encourages these travellers to review their Product Disclosure Statements (PDS) to understand fully the provisions available under their extended coverage.
In addition to these extensions, nib Travel advises impacted travellers to utilise its straightforward and efficient online claims process. This user-friendly system ensures rapid assistance and can be accessed directly at www.nibtravelinsurance.com.au/claims.
Nib Travel’s swift action demonstrates a strong commitment to its customers and highlights the vital role of comprehensive travel insurance, particularly during unforeseen natural disasters. By proactively addressing the challenges posed by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, nib Travel continues to set a high standard in travel insurance responsiveness and customer care.
As recovery efforts continue in affected areas, nib Travel remains dedicated to supporting its customers, ensuring that stranded travellers can return home safely and securely.
Written by: Anne Keam