Bushfires in New South Wales and South Australia

Following reports of the wildfires that have affected the regions of New South Wales and South Australia, we at tifgroup would like to extend our sympathies to those affected and also clarify what cover may be available.

We always advise all travellers to check the FCO’s advice for their chosen destination and the current advice on this matter can be found here – https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/australia

For residents of Ireland please follow the advice of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as follows https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/australia/

Cancellation

This type of event is unfortunately not covered across the travel insurance industry for claims relating to cancellation. This is because most policies have the following exclusion relating to cancellation “any claim where the fire, flood, earthquake, storm, lightning, explosion, hurricane or infectious disease had already happened before you left home”. However, we would always suggest that you always check your specific policy wording for more information on this and to find out whether you have cover or not.

Additional travel and accommodation costs

Should your travel and accommodation arrangements have been affected by the fire your policy may cover reasonable additional costs within a certain radius to provide you with alternative options. However, we would always suggest that you always check your specific policy wording for more information on this and to find out whether you have cover or not. To find out more please contact your claims team.

Returning home early

If you are not able to amend your trip details and have a medical justification for doing so, we are happy to discuss your situation on a case-by case basis.

In the event that you have specific questions not answered by this directive, please contact your insurance company directly either by email or over the phone.