Summer weather outlook: how to help prepare your farm clients

Farmers are again, facing an acute bushfire season with higher fuel loads and predictions of hotter than average temperatures over the next few months in certain areas of Australia. The Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire and emergency services (AFAC) Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring 2024 shows increased risk of fire for large areas in the Northern Territory and Queensland, as well as far west and southwestern Victoria, and the southeast corner of South Australia.

Given the challenging forecast, it’s more important than ever to ensure your farm clients have the appropriate insurance cover in place and are taking necessary steps to protect their properties in the lead-up to summer, says ARGIS Farm Underwriting Manager Peter Morsley.

What the forecast says

Climate models suggest there is an equal chance of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) remaining neutral or La Niña developing during the remainder of 2024, and there is very little chance of an El Niño developing.

A wetter summer may produce more vegetation that, coupled with hotter temperatures over the next few months, would result in an increased risk of bushfires. The situation for rural and regional Australia, and locations on the urban fringe, is particularly acute this year following multiple years of La Nina conditions, which have increased the fuel load significantly, Peter warns.

How farmers can prepare

Peter says farmers should have a comprehensive bushfire plan in place.
“Farm insurance can assist in replacing assets but not lives,” he says. “Being prepared and safeguarding your family takes precedence. For farmers to safely protect their property during a fire, a well-thought-out plan is essential.”

Peter says regular maintenance is critical for property and land readiness. Preparing can involve mowing or slashing grass to reduce fuel load.

“Clearing areas around homes and farm buildings creates defensible spaces. Additionally, your clients should prune trees and branches near power lines and store flammable materials away from structures containing high-value assets.”

Farmers are also advised to keep their fire suppression equipment, such as fire extinguishers, in optimal condition.

Peter says properly maintaining farm machinery is crucial to avoid sparking incidents.

He adds that operating machinery on hot or windy days, even if a fire ban has not been declared, is not a decision to be taken lightly.

Another vital aspect of preparation involves planning for the safety of livestock.

“Farmers should have a strategy to move animals to secure locations if fire is threatening their property. This may involve relocating animals to different properties or areas with lower fire risks,” Peter says.

He adds that farmers should follow the advice of local authorities and use online resources specific to their region.

“While the right insurance is essential, prevention is better than cure. Being proactive can improve your client’s chances of safeguarding lives, property, and livelihoods in the face of bushfires.”

Here to help

For more information about early fire preparations or for general enquiries about farm insurance, you can contact the ARGIS team or call 1300 794 364.

The cover is subject to terms and conditions, limits and exclusions of the policy. Any information provided above is general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your client's objectives, financial situation or needs. SGUAS Pty Ltd t/as ARGIS Insurance acts for the insurer, Pacific International Insurance Pty Limited (Pacific). Consider the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination, available by contacting Pacific on 1300 794 364 or visiting www.argis.com.au before deciding if it is right for you.