Local businesses and homeowners in the Macleay Valley are no strangers to soaring insurance premiums—but thanks to the work of Gary Scott and the Macleay Valley Business Chamber, the issue is finally gaining traction at the state level.
Gary, a long-serving advocate for the region and member-elected representative on the NSW Business Chamber State Council, has been working tirelessly to bring awareness to the crippling costs of insurance in flood-prone areas like the Macleay.
In August, Gary secured an opportunity to address the NSW Business Chamber on the matter of flood insurance. “I got 100% support,” he reported following the meeting. “ I got in the ear of Mark Speakman, Opposition Leader, so now the work begins.”
Gary’s intervention was not only welcomed but has also set in motion further investigation into how insurance policies are determined and priced.
Gary is also investigating how the expense of affording flood cover—or the lack of it, or even the option to opt out—is impacting the purchase and sale of real estate within the valley, particularly for those who must rely on finance.
“The reality is, very few people understand how this system works,” Gary said. “But the impact on businesses and families is enormous—many simply can’t afford the premiums being asked.”
Beyond the formal chambers, Gary used his attendance at the Sydney Chamber Awards to speak directly with key politicians, ensuring the Macleay’s concerns were heard at the highest levels.
For the Macleay Valley Business Chamber, Gary’s efforts highlight the unseen but critical work being done behind the scenes to represent the region. While many members may only interact with the Chamber through networking events or local initiatives, advocacy on issues like insurance is central to its mission.
The investigation into flood insurance pricing is still in its early stages, but with momentum building at the state level, the Macleay’s voice is being heard louder than ever.
