Budget Direct Urges Australians to Prepare for Storm Season

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Funnily enough, it is interesting how the last syllable of the word ‘analysis’ can strike your attention like the loud ‘hiss’ of a very angry snake. As such, it is a rare gift that so few analysts possess to not have some kind of axe to grind, or score to settle via how they assess the topics they do. As the American author Aaron Allston once said, “The analysis of a thing is not the thing itself.” Or in other words, no matter how well we might analyse something, it will always merely be the product of our own interpretational capacities. When it comes to interpretational capacities, none wove that fine bridging line between something in itself, and what is objectively there to be seen than the late Clive James. Sadly, for Clive his ‘funny guy’ persona robbed him of being considered the seriously talented analyst that he was. One classic example comes from a review he wrote in 1981, “Original people do great things. Ordinary people do the world’s work. Both kinds of people are apt to lose track of what their efforts add up to.”

That the word ‘analysis’ also shares an ancient Greek origin through the combination of the words ‘ana’ and ‘luein’, that basically translates ‘to loosen’ or release, as in to loosen a ship from its moorings. Which is fitting because good analysis in a very tangible sense discovers whole new territories of thought, thought that couldn’t be otherwise seen without leaving the safe confines of the already known.

LIAM JENNINGS

Budget Direct Home

Insurance is calling on Australians to take storm preparedness seriously ahead of the upcoming summer, as a recent national survey reveals increased awareness and action among homeowners.

The survey results highlight a growing trend of Aussies taking proactive steps to safeguard their homes. More people are now clearing their gutters and securing home insurance to mitigate the risk of damage caused by natural disasters.

In 2023, only 15% of Australians reported never having cleaned their gutters, down from 21% in 2021, according to Budget Direct’s previous survey.

While gutter maintenance has improved, almost half of respondents admitted they clear their gutters just once a year. Though this fgure is below the biannual recommendation, it shows progress compared to 2021, when only 36% adhered to this practice. Interestingly, younger Australians, aged 18 to 27, emerged as the most diligent group, with many cleaning their gutters quarterly.

The survey also highlights a signifcant increase in Australians ensuring they are adequately insured.

In 2023, 53% of respondents reported having total contents cover on their home insurance, a substantial rise from 38% in 2021. Similarly, those with total rebuild costs cover rose from 35% in 2021 to 41% in 2023.

Encouragingly, more than a third of survey participants said they have an action plan in place in the event of a severe storm, with Queenslanders leading the charge. Nearly half (46%) of Queensland respondents reported having a storm emergency plan ready for their households.

As the threat of severe weather looms, Budget

Direct’s survey fndings underline the importance of early preparation, reminding Australians to stay vigilant and ensure their homes are protected.

As natural disaster season approaches, Budget Direct offers essential advice for homeowners to help safeguard their property from storm damage. Here are their top tips:

• Clear Your Gutters

Twice a Year: It may seem simple, but keeping gutters free of debris is one of the best ways to prevent storm and rainwater damage. Blocked gutters can cause rainwater to overfow into areas where it doesn’t belong, potentially seeping into your roof, ceiling, and walls. Cleaning your gutters at least twice a year can help minimize this risk.

• Inspect and Repair Your Roof Regularly: Make sure your roof is in good condition by checking it periodically. Start by inspecting the roof cavity (accessible through the manhole) to see if any sunlight is shining through. If you spot gaps, rust, or discolouration, address the damage as soon as possible. Quick repairs can prevent small issues from becoming costly problems.

• Stay Updated with Weather Warnings: The Bureau of Meteorology issues alerts before severe storms hit. Staying informed about incoming weather allows you to take precautions, such as securing loose objects in your yard, closing windows, and minimizing potential damage to your home.

For the full breakdown and further insights from the Budget Direct Australian Storm Survey visit the QR code below.