Medibank delivers big for drought-affected farmers

Insurance giant extends offer to drought stricken farmers

Medibank are extending their drought relief support to farmers until the end of the year. Picture: Marian Faa

INSURANCE giants Medibank and Ahm have announced plans to provide up to $6 million in financial relief to its customers in drought-affected farming communities.

Thousands of farmers are expected to benefit from the financial relief, which will be available until December 31, 2018 and will allow eligible customers to receive up to six months premium relief from the day of application.

Eligible customers can also choose to suspend their policy for up to two years.

Medibank released a media statement saying eligible customers are already taking up the offer with Medibank chief customer officer David Koczkar, saying the financial support is allowing farmers to focus on their farms.

Mr Koczkar said the drought was shaping up to be one of the worst cases in Queensland and New South Wales' history.

"The drought is taking an emotional and physical toll on our farmers, and that's why it is critical they get support for their health and wellbeing, and maintain their health cover.”

Medibank has launched a free and confidential telephone counselling service to help support customers who might be dealing with mental health issues.　

Customers can call the Medibank and Ahm drought support line on 1800 696 876.

Medibank and Ahm customers who have hospital cover, are receiving the Farm Household Allowance and are in a drought-affected area are eligible for the premium relief under Medibank's ex-gratia scheme.

To find out more about the financial relief measures available, Medibank customers can contact 134 190 and Ahm customers can contact 1300 214 416.

Originally published as Medibank delivers big for drought-affected farmers