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Summer is one of our most celebrated seasons in Australia. Between holidays, road trips, beach swims, and BBQs with with loved ones, there’s a lot to be excited about. Like every season, it can come with its own risks and we’re here to help you prepare.

Our seasonal reports are shared twice a year to give you the most recent information on common risks at home and on the road. We combine our survey results of 1,007 Australians, claims data, and expert guidance to help you reduce or avoid preventable losses.

From the impact of El Niño to handy maintenance tips, our 2026 summer risk report has some key insights on how you can enjoy your summer.

"With the latest long-range forecasts pointing to a warmer summer than usual for much of Australia and an increased likelihood of severe weather, now is a good time to start thinking about ways to protect our homes and cars. Our research and data show that while Aussies are becoming more aware of seasonal risks, common and easy-to-fix maintenance issues are still going unresolved, which can cause significant disruption and inconvenience."

– Shez Ford, Chief General Manager – Consumer, Allianz

56%
of people are more concerned about extreme weather than they were five years ago1
75%
of people don’t have a severe weather or bushfire plan2
44%
of people ask someone to check on their property while they’re away3
$224.28m
total costs of home and contents claims last summer4

Preparing for summer at home

Prepare outdoor areas before entertaining

  • Inspect decks, pathways, and outdoor entertaining areas for hazards.
  • Secure loose pavers, fencing, and outdoor structures, including pool fences.
  • Check outdoor lighting is functioning correctly.

Get BBQ ready

  • Clean grease trays regularly.
  • Inspect gas connections for signs of wear and leakage.
  • Place BBQs in well-ventilated areas, away from combustible materials, and near a working fire extinguisher.

Reduce severe weather risks

  • Clean gutters and downpipes.
  • Remove dead vegetation and trim overhanging tree branches.
  • Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.

Check fire and electrical safety

  • Test smoke alarms.
  • Check fire extinguishers and fire blankets.
  • Inspect outdoor electrical equipment for damage.

Holiday-proof your home

  • Lock all doors, windows, and gates.
  • Ask someone you trust to keep an eye on your home.
  • Store or secure outdoor furniture and loose items.

Find more ways to check and maintain your home

56%

of people don’t do basic vehicle safety checks before long summer journeys5

25%

of people admit they’re easily distracted by phones or screens on long drives6

64%

of people don’t check severe weather forecasts before setting off7

$161.04m

total cost of car insurance claims last summer8

Preparing for summer on the road

Carry out a vehicle safety check

  • Check tyre pressure and tread before departing.
  • Check oil, coolant, and other fluid levels.
  • Address any known maintenance issues before travelling.

Plan around weather conditions

  • Review forecasts before leaving and during longer journeys.
  • Reduce speed and increase following distances during severe weather.
  • Delay travel where conditions are unsafe.

Prepare for the unexpected

  • Carry water, a first-aid kit, phone charger, and emergency supplies.
  • Ensure roadside assistance details are accessible.
  • Let friends or family know your route if travelling long distances.

Manage fatigue

  • Take regular breaks at least every two hours.
  • Share driving responsibilities where possible.
  • Avoid driving when tired and stop if you begin to feel fatigued.

Learn more about regular car servicing and maintenance

Preparing for extreme weather

“Australia is influenced by multiple climate drivers. While a strong El Niño has developed in the Pacific and is typically associated with hotter and drier conditions across parts of the country, some regions can still experience periods of heavy rain, severe storms and other significant weather events.”

– Craig McIntosh, Meteorologist, Allianz

75% of surveyed Australians don't have a severe weather or bushfire plan in place.2 Here’s some helpful information on what to do before, during, and after an extreme weather event.

Get prepared
Remember to check your home or car insurance sum insured to make sure you have the right level of cover for your needs.
Manage your home or car policy

Explore the full research

Get more insights and advice to help you prepare for summer.

Past reports

Look back at our research into home safety and seasonal risks.

Allianz Winter Risk Report 2026

We share common risks to Australian homes and drivers this winter. Explore our tips on how you can look after what matters during the colder months.

Read the report (PDF, 3.62 MB)

Allianz Summer Risk Report 2025

We take a look at Australia’s summer weather forecast and its impact. Learn how you can prepare and prevent potential damage to your home.

Read the report (PDF, 1.57 MB)

Allianz Home Care Report

We reveal that two in five homeowners in Australia take a “set and forget” approach to home maintenance. This puts their homes at risk of preventable damage and claims.

Read the report (PDF, 1.9 MB)

Allianz Prevention Hub

Helping you prepare today to look after tomorrow. For expert home and car care resources, check out the hub.

Visit the Allianz Prevention Hub
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Conditions

  1. 56% of surveyed Australians agree they are more concerned about extreme weather than they were five years ago.
  2. 25% of surveyed Australians have a plan for what to do if severe weather or a bushfire occurs.
  3. 44% of surveyed Australians ask someone to check on their property if leaving their home unattended for more than two weeks.
  4. According to Allianz Home & Contents and Landlords insurance claims lodged between 1 December 2025 and 28 February 2026 and finalised as of 20 August 2026.
  5. 44% of surveyed Australians carry out basic checks on their car ahead of a long road trip.
  6. 25% of surveyed Australians agree they are easily distracted (by phones or screens) on longer road trips in summer.
  7. 36% of surveyed Australians say they check weather forecasts for severe weather before a long road trip.
  8. According to primary Allianz Motor insurance claims lodged between 1 December 2025 and 28 February 2026 and finalised as of 20 August 2026.
Allianz acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work across Australia. We pay our respect to First Nations Elders past and present.

Any advice here does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions apply. Before making a decision about this insurance, consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)/Policy Wording and Supplementary PDS (if applicable). Where applicable, the PDS/Policy Wording, Supplementary PDS and Target Market Determination (TMD) for this insurance are available on this website. We do not provide any form of advice if you call us to enquire about or purchase a product.

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