Reflecting on resilience: Understanding the impact of the Lismore floods and navigating future challenges

As we mark the second anniversary of the devastating floods that swept through Lismore, New South Wales, it’s essential to pause and reflect on the profound impact this event had on the region and its people. The floodwaters, reaching an unprecedented 14.4 meters, shattering records, and left behind a trail of destruction and heartache. 

The Insurance Council of Australia reported a surge in insurance claims following the catastrophic flood, with a total of $6.15 billion worth of claims. The scale of the damage underscores the challenges faced by residents and businesses in rebuilding their lives and livelihoods.  

John Ahern, our Global Head of Property, and Nathan Cox, Head of Account Management travelled to Lismore in May 2022 to witness the aftermath firsthand and offer support to client’s located there. Their observations painted a stark picture of the devastation wrought by nature’s fury.  

“The floods in Lismore were much worse than we expected to see,” remarked John Ahern at the time. “The recent flood level could be seen on the roof—three flights of stairs up from the ground floor.” Many businesses were forced to relocate as their offices succumbed to the floodwaters, disrupting operations, and testing their resilience. 

At the time of their visit, months after the floodwaters receded, the scars remain visible. “Most of the firms were still displaced from their offices because their offices were flooded and damaged,” noted Nathan Cox. “Many people in Lismore were still without their homes, three months on from the height of the flood.”