Focus shifts from recovery to resilience and funding
Insurer executives are linking Alfred’s anniversary to discussions about land use, building standards, and long‑term risk reduction. Suncorp CEO Steve Johnston has argued that repeated rebuilds under similar exposure conditions are not sustainable over time, citing the need to balance housing supply targets with design requirements for a changing hazard profile. Within Suncorp’s consumer portfolio, Harrison points to household‑level measures such as shutters, guards, anchored sheds, ridge caps, and roof sarking as options that can reduce potential cyclone damage and claim costs. “While the work continues, it’s important that we use this anniversary to highlight the need for us to shift focus from recovery to resilience – working collaboratively with governments, communities, and homeowners. We can’t continue to rebuild in the same way in the same places, so it’s vital we work together to invest upfront in stronger homes, smarter planning, and more resilient infrastructure,” Harrison said.