Victoria bushfire insurance claims to soar as blazes take huge toll

More than 200 bushfire insurance claims have already been launched this season in Victoria with buildings, lives and livestock lost, but the number is set to soar as the damage in East Gippsland is assessed.

Bushfire insurance claims in Victoria are set to soar as fire teams begin assessing the mounting damage in East Gippsland and dozens of fires continue to burn across the state.

More than 200 Victorian claims have already been launched this season with homes, lives, livestock and buildings lost, according to the Insurance Council of Australia.

However, with many areas decimated by the fires still too dangerous to enter the figure will no doubt climb in the coming days.

Australia-wide there have been 4299 claims since November with losses estimated at $297 million.

“That’s up 429 claims in the past day ($59 million in losses) with fresh claims lodged by householders in eastern Victoria and the NSW south coast,” said the Insurance Council’s Campbell Fuller.

“The Insurance Council expects hundreds of claims will be lodged over the next few days once communication is restored to communities and as property owners return to their homes and businesses to inspect the damage.”

Jann Gilbert visits the site of her burnt-out unit in Mallacoota. Picture: David Caird

More than half a million hectares have been burnt in the East Gippsland fires. Picture: AAP

Many areas are decimated by fires. Picture: Jason Edwards

Property damage at a Sarsfield residence in East Gippsland. Picture: AAP

Anyone from fire affected areas who need support are being urged to attend a relief or recovery centres within the local area.

For people who have lost their home, had a house directly damaged, are seriously injured or have lost an immediate family member; they are eligible for a $1000 payment for adults and $400 for children and can apply by calling 1802266.

The federal government is also offering short-term income support for small businesses in the East Gippsland and Towong local government areas.

For those suffering personal hardship there is emergency relief assistance grants for items like accommodation, food and clothing.

Eligible adults receive $560 and children $280 capped at $1960 per eligible household.

If your home has been destroyed or badly damaged you are eligible for up to $42,250 in a joint payment from the Victorian and Australian Government.

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There is also concern for the mental health of those battling fire conditions in their area for several weeks now.

Ensay local and former mental health nurse Louise Oswald-Adams said fires have stalked the region since November and some farmers were doing it tough.

“It is going to take its toll, especially after the drought. I really fear for the wellbeing of people,’’ she said.