At 12:47PM AEST on 17 December 2024, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Port Vila and surrounding areas. Since this time, there have been multiple aftershocks. There is widespread infrastructure damage, including to roads and buildings. and some areas have also reported landslides. Essential services, including telecommunications, have been disrupted. Transport services, including flights, have been impacted.
What you should do
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Follow local government and media advice.
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Contact your airline, cruise company, travel agent, booking provider etc as they should be able to provide immediate help with rescheduling or providing you with your options.
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Check Smartraveller website and Facebook.
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Do you need to submit a claim for this event?
5. Question or enquiries?
- Visit: Frequently Asked Questions
- Phone: 1300 409 302 (9am and 5pm (AEST) Monday to Friday excluding Public Holidays)
- Email: info@fastcover.com.au
6. If you are overseas and need emergency medical help, contact our Emergency Assistance team.
- Phone: +61 2 8320 7999
- E-mail: emergency@fastcover.com.au
7. 24-hour Australian Government Consular Assistance for travellers overseas:
- Phone: +61 2 6261 3305
- SMS: +61 421 269 080
Am I covered for this event?
If you purchased your policy prior to 4PM on 17 December 2024 there is potential coverage under your policy for this event, check your Certificate of Insurance for your level of cover and the PDS for policy terms and conditions. You can download your Certificate and PDS by logging into your policy.
If you purchased your policy after 4PM on 17 December 2024, there is potentially no coverage under your policy for this event. However, you can submit a claim for assessment and we will assess the claim based on the policy terms and conditions.
How do I make a claim?
Contact your airline, cruise company, tour company, travel agent or travel provider for help rescheduling or alternative travel arrangements if you are currently travelling.
Before you submit a claim, contact your airline, cruise company, tour company, travel agent or travel provider and request a refund, credit or compensation.
Request and keep your receipts and any other supporting documentation e.g. travel provider cancellation emails/letters. If you are claiming for additional meal, accommodation, and travel costs, please ensure you retain copies of all of your expense receipts.
Take measures to act in a responsible way to protect yourself and do everything you can to reasonably reduce your loss as much as possible.
General Advice
For details about what your policy covers, please refer to your PDS. Policy terms, conditions, limits, sub limits and exclusions may apply under your policy.
We will assess all claims in accordance with your PDS and your Certificate of Insurance. Your cover will depend on the type of plan you purchased and your particular circumstances.