Tropical Cyclone Gita, Polynesia (including Samoa and Tonga), February 2018

Important travel insurance information for Fast Cover policies underwritten by Hollard.

The below information was issued on 12/02/2018 and applies to Fast Cover travel insurance policies underwritten by Hollard.

We are closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Cyclone Gita as it approaches the Polynesian islands and surrounding area. Tropical Cyclone Gita made landfall on Samoa on 11 February 2018 and is expected to make landfall on Tonga on 12 February 2018. The intensity of the tropical cyclone is expected to increase over the coming days, but it’s path through Polynesia and the Pacific isn’t yet known.

If you are in Polynesia and need emergency assistance call us on +61 2 8320 7999 or email us at emergency@fastcover-assist.com.au

Local media are providing updates as the storm progresses. There have been reports of flight cancellations from and to Samoa. Please view your flight provider’s website for their updates.

DFAT are advising travellers to avoid the area and follow local instructions. Please stay up to date with the advice issued on the Smart Traveller website.

Policy Coverage

The below information was issued on 12 February 2018 and applies to your travel insurance policy with Fast Cover, underwritten by Hollard.

For policies issued prior to 2:03pm AEDT 10 February 2018 there is provision for cover as set out below under ‘How does this affect me?’

For policies issued after 2:03pm AEDT 10 February 2018, there is no cover for any claims arising from this event.

How does this affect me?

There is provision for cover under the following benefits of the policy subject to the policy terms and conditions, limits, Benefit exclusions and General Exclusions:

• Benefit 5 - Trip Cancellation Expenses
• Benefit 6 - Trip Disruption Expenses
• Benefit 16 – Travel Delay Expenses
• Benefit 17 – Alternative Transport Expenses

Tips:

• If you are claiming additional expenses, make sure you keep a copy of all your receipts.
• If your travel was cancelled or delayed by a transport provider, you may be able to claim some of your meal and accommodation costs through them. Please check the terms and conditions of your transport provider’s ticket, and keep a copy of all their communication with you.
• The Fast Cover PDS gives you all the information you need to make a travel claim. You can find a copy of the PDS at www.fastcover.com.au/pds

Making a claim

If you don’t need emergency assistance, you can make a claim online at fastcover.com.au/claims,  or when you get back home. Contact us at claims-fch@fastcover.com.au or on 1300 409 322.

Remember:

• Take reasonable steps to minimise your claim. Contact your airline or Travel provider for assistance if you need to rearrange your travel plans.
• Keep your receipts and any other supporting documentation e.g. travel provider cancellation letters. If you are claiming for additional meal, accommodation, and travel costs, please ensure you retain copies of all of your expense receipts.

General Advice

For details about what your policy covers, please refer to your Product Disclosure Statement. Limits, conditions and exclusions may apply under your policy.

We will assess all claims in accordance with your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and your Certificate of Insurance. Your cover will depend on the type of plan you purchased and your particular circumstances.

Questions?

If you have any questions or need help with your travel insurance, please:

• Visit: Frequently Asked Questions
• Phone: 1300 409 302
• Email: info@fastcover.com.au

Useful Links for Travellers

• Australian Government 24 Hour Consular Assistance
• Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology
• World Health Organisation
• World Meteorological Organisation
• BBC World News

For regular updates, download the Smartraveller app and register your travel itinerary with Smart Traveller.

For new or existing claim or policy enquiries, please contact us on 1300 409 322 or info@fastcover.com.au between 9am and 6pm (AEST) Monday to Friday.