The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien says he is concerned about ongoing delays to repairs and recovery of homes in Mirboo North after the February 13 storm event.
Mr O’Brien said he has heard from multiple residents in Mirboo North this week who are still waiting for insurance claims and building repairs to be finalised nearly five months after the storm hit.
“I’ve been alarmed as I drive around the community at how many homes are still showing visible signs of damage or only have temporary repairs in place.
“Feedback received directly to me during a visit on Wednesday and via contact to my office indicates that while some residents are very happy with their insurance companies, a majority are still struggling to get action and waiting for repairs to be finalised.
“It is a very big concern to me that it’s taking so long to repair rooves, walls and other damage that occurred during the freak storm event.
“I spoke to one family this week who can’t keep their home warm as winter bites because of broken windows and temporary repairs that are not weatherproof.
“I’ve heard from multiple other residents who are frustrated at slow responses from insurance companies or builders who have not completed the work they promised to do.
“I’ve now written to the Insurance Council of Australia highlighting these concerns in the hope that insurance companies will improve their performance for future events.”
Mr O’Brien said he was pleased to see good progress on community facilities like the clean-up of the golf course and thanked Emergency Recovery Victoria and Disaster Recovery Australia workers for volunteering in the community.