Hurricane Irma, Florida and the Caribbean

We are closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Irma as it approaches the Caribbean and southern Florida. Hurricane Irma was expected to make landfall across the Caribbean on Wednesday 6 September 2017, and may reach Florida on Saturday 9 September 2017.

Australian government advice

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is advising travellers to Exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America, including Alaska and the Hawaiian Islands. Avoid the area and follow the instructions of local authorities and keep an eye on local media for updates. Please visit www.smartraveller.gov.au to stay up to date with the latest advice issued by DFAT.

Do you need emergency help?

If you need emergency help, contact our Worldwide Emergency Assistance team. The Australian Government also offers 24-Hour Consular Assistance for travellers overseas:

• Phone: +61 2 6261 3305

• SMS: +61 421 269 080

I'm already overseas

Safety is your first priority so if you are in any vulnerable areas, please follow advice from local authorities and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). If you require emergency assistance, please contact us as soon as you can on 1866 844 4085 or speak to your local operator and ask to be put through reverse charge to +61 7 3305 7499.

If your transport is delayed or cancelled or your accommodation is affected due to the adverse weather, please contact your travel agent or travel provider directly regarding your options. Under your policy coverage you may be able to claim for additional travel, accommodation and meal expenses where pre-paid accommodation is no longer inhabitable or available, or scheduled transport is no longer operating.

I have not yet departed

If your travel arrangements have been affected, please contact your travel agent or travel provider regarding the best option in altering your trip. Some travel providers may offer penalty free options to amend travel arrangements. Depending on your policy terms and conditions, you may be able to claim for cancellation or rearrangement of your journey if your pre-booked travel arrangements are cancelled, delayed or rescheduled as a result of Hurricane Irma.

How do I make a claim?

Keep all receipts for any additional transport, food or accommodation expenses. If you are claiming cancellation or additional expenses you will need to submit documents showing what your original planned pre-paid arrangements were, along with any receipts and documents showing your new arrangements, and advice from the travel provider indicating the non-refundable portion of the journey. Please note that any compensation and/or refunds you receive from a third party for transport, food or accommodation will be deducted if your claim is accepted.

• Online: Make your claim online at www.fastcover.com/claims

• Phone: 1300 725 154

• Email: travelclaims@allianz-assistance.com.au

Questions?

• Visit: Frequently Asked Questions

• Phone: 1300 409 302

• Email: info@fastcover.com.au

Useful links for travellers

• Australian Government 24 Hour Consular Assistance

• BBC World News