The La Nina Likelihood : Spring 2020. Planning ahead for an extreme weather event
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The BOM states there's now three times the normal likelihood of La Niña developing over spring/summer 2020, which typically means more rain and an increased chance of flooding and tropical cyclones.
Plan ahead – prepare your home and/or business so they’re protected from any potential extreme weather events.
Check your insurance policy to ensure you’re adequately covered - pay particular attention to your exposure to storm and flood events.
A La Nina ‘ALERT’ status has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for the first time since February 2018.
The outlook has recently increased to an ‘ALERT’ status from a previous ‘WATCH’ status, putting the chance of a La Nina in 2020 at 70% which is around three times its normal likelihood. This typically means we are likely to see more (and heavier) rainfall during this years’ spring and summer months, as well as an increased risk of flooding and tropical cyclones.
La Niña typically means:
Increased rainfall across much of Aus.
Cooler daytime temperatures (south)
Warmer overnight temperatures (north)
Shift in temperature extremes
Decreased frost risk
Greater tropical cyclone numbers
Earlier monsoon onset
With this increased risk in mind, homeowners and business owners across high risk regions need to place awareness and preparation as a top priority to help protect against a potential extreme weather event. See outlook maps here or below.
As the reality of climate change starts to really hit home, it’s no longer safe to make decisions on the basis that an extraordinary event is unlikely to happen.
“The BOM’s La Niña watch announcement is a great opportunity for brokers and customers to plan ahead and make sure we’re all prepared and ready if an extreme weather event does eventuate.”
Source: David Gow – QBE’s Head of Major Loss Property Claims
Below are a few preventative steps you can take to better protect your home and/or business in the case of a flood or cyclone event.
Your insurance policy:
Review your cover to make sure you have adequate insurance in place, especially your exposure to storm and flood as it may be excluded under standard wordings.
Assess your flood exposure.
Take a close look at your policy exclusions, especially flood.
Consider business interruption insurance – are you covered should you need to close your business?
Your home or business:
Get a building inspection and follow the recommendations.
Maintain roofs and guttering, and ensure your buildings are watertight. Reducing the likelihood of damage prior to inspection is important.
Place stock and electrical equipment above the recommended level to avoid water damage.
If you have a basement, install a submersible pump.
Check drainage on your property. Your council should also be keeping water channels clear.
Consult with your local council.
Physically prepare your home and business for severe weather.
Develop an evacuation plan for you, your employees and your family.
BOM Rainfall Outlook – the chance of above median rainfall for September to November 2020.
“It's about being prepared and understanding your exposure, whether that relates to a private residence, or a commercial or industrial occupancy”.
Below is a list of emergency services by state - they house information and resources to help you plan and take practical actions to protect your assets and understand the risks:
If you would like to chat with one of our specialist industry brokers for advice, to analyse your existing policy, or to gain a free assessment on the insurance coverage that is best for you, please just drop us a line.
The BOM states there's now three times the normal likelihood of La Niña developing over spring/summer 2020, which typically means more rain and an increased chance of flooding and tropical cyclones.
Plan ahead – prepare your home and/or business so they’re protected from any potential extreme weather events.
Check your insurance policy to ensure you’re adequately covered - pay particular attention to your exposure to storm and flood events.
A La Nina ‘ALERT’ status has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for the first time since February 2018.
The outlook has recently increased to an ‘ALERT’ status from a previous ‘WATCH’ status, putting the chance of a La Nina in 2020 at 70% which is around three times its normal likelihood. This typically means we are likely to see more (and heavier) rainfall during this years’ spring and summer months, as well as an increased risk of flooding and tropical cyclones.
La Niña typically means:
Increased rainfall across much of Aus.
Cooler daytime temperatures (south)
Warmer overnight temperatures (north)
Shift in temperature extremes
Decreased frost risk
Greater tropical cyclone numbers
Earlier monsoon onset
With this increased risk in mind, homeowners and business owners across high risk regions need to place awareness and preparation as a top priority to help protect against a potential extreme weather event. See outlook maps here or below.
As the reality of climate change starts to really hit home, it’s no longer safe to make decisions on the basis that an extraordinary event is unlikely to happen.
“The BOM’s La Niña watch announcement is a great opportunity for brokers and customers to plan ahead and make sure we’re all prepared and ready if an extreme weather event does eventuate.”
Source: David Gow – QBE’s Head of Major Loss Property Claims
Below are a few preventative steps you can take to better protect your home and/or business in the case of a flood or cyclone event.
Your insurance policy:
Review your cover to make sure you have adequate insurance in place, especially your exposure to storm and flood as it may be excluded under standard wordings.
Assess your flood exposure.
Take a close look at your policy exclusions, especially flood.
Consider business interruption insurance – are you covered should you need to close your business?
Your home or business:
Get a building inspection and follow the recommendations.
Maintain roofs and guttering, and ensure your buildings are watertight. Reducing the likelihood of damage prior to inspection is important.
Place stock and electrical equipment above the recommended level to avoid water damage.
If you have a basement, install a submersible pump.
Check drainage on your property. Your council should also be keeping water channels clear.
Consult with your local council.
Physically prepare your home and business for severe weather.
Develop an evacuation plan for you, your employees and your family.
BOM Rainfall Outlook – the chance of above median rainfall for September to November 2020.
“It's about being prepared and understanding your exposure, whether that relates to a private residence, or a commercial or industrial occupancy”.
Below is a list of emergency services by state - they house information and resources to help you plan and take practical actions to protect your assets and understand the risks:
If you would like to chat with one of our specialist industry brokers for advice, to analyse your existing policy, or to gain a free assessment on the insurance coverage that is best for you, please just drop us a line.
With 35 years’ experience in the insurance industry, Gary is a Senior Insurance Broker at Midland with extensive knowledge across a wide range of business sectors. He specialises in insurance for breweries, distilleries, cafés, restaurants, and manufacturing businesses, bringing a depth of practical insight to every client engagement.
Known for his thorough and considered approach, Gary takes the time to understand how each business operates before delivering clear, tailored insurance solutions. A committed professional, he has completed numerous industry qualifications and is a proud member of ANZIIF, maintaining his expertise through ongoing education and regular engagement with industry developments.
Outside of work, Gary is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys running, football, and cricket. He remains driven by a simple principle: continuous improvement and delivering the highest standard of advice to his clients.
Angus Matheson
Senior Insurance Broker
With more than 21 years’ experience in the insurance industry, Angus is a Senior Insurance Broker specialising in Road Freight Transport insurance. He is recognised for his deep understanding of the transport sector and his ability to deliver tailored risk solutions that address the operational and commercial challenges faced by transport businesses.
Angus takes an empathetic, client-first approach, investing the time to understand each business, its priorities, and its risk profile before providing advice. A committed professional, he holds accreditations with NIBA, ANZIIF, CIP, and QPIB, and remains actively engaged with industry developments through ongoing education and professional involvement. His focus is on delivering reliable protection that supports business continuity and long-term confidence.
Sarah Grose
Senior Insurance Broker
With more than 17 years’ experience in the insurance industry -including 16 years with Midland - Sarah brings deep expertise and a genuine commitment to helping clients protect what matters most. Having held a range of roles across the business, including management positions, she has a well-rounded understanding of both client needs and the broader insurance landscape.
Sarah specialises in small to medium-sized business insurance, with particular expertise in the film and television sector, self-storage, and, more recently, breweries and distilleries. Her approach is focused on making insurance clear, practical, and tailored to each client’s circumstances. Known for her approachable and solution-focused style, Sarah builds long-term relationships grounded in trust, reliability, and understanding.
She holds a Diploma of Insurance Broking and remains actively engaged in ongoing professional development to ensure her advice stays current and relevant.
Andrew Woff
Senior Insurance Broker
With close to 20 years’ experience in the insurance industry, Andrew is a Senior Insurance Broker at Midland specialising in heavy vehicle and equipment insurance, as well as cover for breweries and distilleries. He is particularly well regarded for his ability to secure tailored, cost-effective solutions for assets involving motors, wheels, or tracks, alongside his strong understanding of the risks unique to alcohol production businesses.
Andrew works with a wide range of clients, from sole traders through to large-scale operations, and is known for his clear communication, flexible approach, and commitment to personalised service. A QPIB-accredited broker and member of NIBA, he maintains high professional standards and remains focused on delivering practical, well-considered advice.
Outside the office, Andrew is a proud father of three and an active community volunteer. His interests in music, electronics, mechanics, and brewing reflect the same curiosity and hands-on mindset he brings to his professional work.
Scott McMurtrie
Senior Insurance Broker
Scott is a Senior Insurance Broker with over 12 years’ experience supporting Australian small and medium-sized businesses. He specialises in tailored insurance solutions across the Film & Entertainment, Transport, and Manufacturing sectors, delivering advice that reflects each client’s specific risks and operations.
With a strong focus on understanding how businesses work in practice, Scott provides clear, relevant cover recommendations backed by ongoing professional development and industry engagement.
Outside the office, he enjoys AFL, soccer, and music, and values building long-term client relationships founded on trust and reliability.
Beau Runnalls
Senior Insurance Broker
Beau is a senior insurance broker at Midland with seven years of industry experience supporting businesses across Australia. He works across a broad range of sectors, with particular expertise in earthmoving, heavy equipment, trades, and the winery industry.
Known for his attention to detail and measured approach, Beau focuses on delivering insurance solutions that are clear, practical, and free from unnecessary complexity. He remains actively engaged in professional development, ensuring his advice reflects current industry standards and best practice.
Beau places strong value on collaboration and long-term client relationships. Outside of work, he enjoys golf and football, reflecting his team-oriented mindset and active approach both professionally and personally.
Alex Petkovic
Senior Insurance Broker | Development & Service
With 27 years of experience in the insurance industry, Alex is a senior broker at Midland, recognised for his depth of knowledge, attention to detail, and straightforward approach. While he works across a broad range of businesses, he has a particular focus on clients in the construction and building sectors.
Committed to keeping insurance clear and practical, Alex places a strong emphasis on honesty and client-first advice. He remains actively engaged with industry developments through ongoing professional development and research, and is also a natural mentor, regularly supporting and guiding emerging brokers within the team.
Joshua Kerr
National Sales Manager
Joshua is Midland’s National Sales Manager, with more than two decades of experience in the insurance industry. His expertise spans a wide range of insurance solutions, with particular depth in the winery and brewery sectors.
Taking a considered, people-focused approach, Joshua works closely with clients to understand how their businesses operate and the risks they face, allowing him to deliver insurance solutions that are both practical and relevant. He is known for his ability to make complex insurance concepts clear and approachable.
Outside of work, Joshua has a strong connection to community, having spent several years coaching junior basketball and serving as Vice President of a children’s basketball club. Staying closely attuned to industry developments, he is committed to helping clients make informed insurance decisions that support their long-term success.
Justin Lane
Director
Justin is a Director at Midland and has been part of the business since 2003. With more than two decades of experience, he works closely with small businesses across Australia, helping them secure insurance solutions that genuinely reflect the way they operate.
Known for his practical, solution-focused approach, Justin places strong emphasis on clarity, reliability, and long-term client relationships. His depth of industry knowledge and consistent, hands-on service have seen him become a trusted adviser to many business owners over time.
Damien Lane
Director
Since 2001, Damien has been central to Midland’s evolution, bringing more than two decades of industry experience and a strong commitment to client-focused service. His expertise spans a wide range of sectors, with recognised depth in the brewery and distillery space.
Working with independent brewers across Australia, Damien helps clients navigate complex operational risks with practical, grounded advice. He is known for his industry knowledge, clear communication, and ability to build enduring client relationships.
