Suncorp hosts emergency services disaster preparedness discussion

Suncorp hosts emergency services disaster preparedness discussion | Insurance Business Australia

Environmental

Suncorp hosts emergency services disaster preparedness discussion

Group also showcased its technology

Environmental

By
Roxanne Libatique

Suncorp has hosted a discussion on disaster management and community preparedness.

Held at Suncorp’s Brisbane headquarters, experts from the Queensland, New South Wales (NSW), and Victorian State Emergency Services – along with the Queensland Police and the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (responsible for the state’s resilience building initiative, Get Ready Queensland) – joined Suncorp insurance leaders for an in-depth discussion on boosting Australia’s disaster resilience from disaster technology to disaster readiness and communications.

Brian Cox, assistant commissioner for Queensland SES, said having a discussion was vital to preparing for, and responding to, weather events.

“When we engage and collaborate with one another, we effectively improve our communities’ preparation for these potential disasters, as well as igniting a more effective response,” Cox said.

Alli Smith, EGM home claims at Suncorp, said hearing Suncorp partners’ insights enable the group to better prepare for future weather events and test its technology and response.

“Our Disaster Management Team drive our preparedness through three core annual activities: post season review, disaster management plan, and simulation,” Smith said.

Suncorp technology

During the discussion, Suncorp showcased its geospatial technology, which uses aerial imagery to provide early insights into community impacts off the back of major weather events.

“The data gained from this technology allows Suncorp to observe potential community and customer impacts faster, and with more accuracy than before,” Smith said. “We’re able to provide proactive customer support, virtually and in-person on the ground following a weather event.”

The group also showcased its AI Damage Detection technology used to identify customers in need of support following a weather event, sometimes even before they have contacted their insurer to make a claim.

“These technologies are crucial in enabling Suncorp to deliver on our purpose: to build futures and protect what matters,” Smith said. “Our role in supporting customers is now elevated; we’re able to reach out in advance and provide the support our customers need in times of vulnerability.”