Australians urged to prepare as cyclone season begins

Australians urged to prepare as cyclone season begins

31 October 2025

With the cyclone season officially underway from 1 November, the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is urging households and businesses across Northern Australia to prepare early and strengthen their resilience against severe weather.

During last cyclone season, communities were reminded of how quickly conditions can change, with Tropical Cyclone Alfred causing widespread wind damage, heavy rainfall, coastal erosion, and power outages across South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales. While the physical and emotional toll of such events can be considerable, early preparation can make all the difference.

ARPC Chief Executive Dr Christopher Wallace said being prepared is one of the most effective ways Australians can reduce damage and recover faster.

"Now is the time to prepare yourself, your family and your property for the season ahead. Checking your roof, securing outdoor items, and reviewing your insurance cover are small steps that can make a big difference when severe weather strikes."

Larger investments in strengthening properties can also bring lasting safety benefits, along with potential premium savings. Examples of eligible improvements include:

• roof tie-downs and structural bracing
• cyclone-rated shutters or impact-resistant glazing
• strengthened garage doors and carports

"All households in Northern Australia, regardless of whether they're in a low, medium or high cyclone-prone area, can access premium discounts if they've completed approved mitigation works," Dr Wallace said.

"Every insurer should recognise the value of these improvements and offer premium discounts for homes that meet cyclone-resilient standards.

"We encourage policyholders to speak with their insurer about available discounts, or seek alternate quotes to ensure they're receiving the benefit of mitigation-linked savings."

The cyclone pool supports insurers to provide affordable cover for households, strata, and small businesses in cyclone-prone regions. A key objective of the pool is to encourage and reward mitigation activities that reduce cyclone risk and build stronger, more resilient communities.

"Whether it's trimming trees, cleaning gutters, or checking your emergency supplies, now is the time to get ready. And if you've made improvements to your property, make sure you're receiving the premium discounts you're entitled to," Dr Wallace added.

For more information on how to prepare your property and reduce cyclone risks, visit arpc.gov.au.

For media inquiries, please contact Alexander Drake, Head of Public Affairs and Communications on (02) 8223-6777 or [email protected]