What are we doing?

MetLife Australia has been closely monitoring the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 situation around the world.

We have robust Business Continuity Plans and a Pandemic Policy in place, and accordingly have implemented a number of actions to protect our people, our partners and our customers.

What business continuity plans does MetLife Australia have in place should its office be closed, or multiple staff quarantined?

MetLife Australia has robust plans in place to ensure business continuity for multiple scenarios. These plans are regularly reviewed to ensure that we are able to continue to serve our customers and partners.

How is MetLife Australia meeting the needs of customers during this time?

MetLife Australia is committed to supporting existing policy-holders and new applicants. Our existing Life, Total and Permanent Disability (TPD), Income Protection and Trauma policies provide cover for COVID-19, in accordance with the policy terms. 

What is MetLife Australia doing for its people and customers?

The health and well-being of our people and customers is a top priority. We are taking several proactive steps to protect the well-being of our people, including:

• Commenced remote workingUtilising technology to hold virtual meetings rather than in person meetings
• Cancelled gatherings of more than 50 people
• Restricted international and domestic travel
• 14-day self-isolation of staff returning from international travel that could not be cancelled
• Encouraging flexible working
• Providing health information
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program
  

Where can I find out information about the virus and its impact on the public and services?

It is recommended you consult reliable sources of information to find out more about the virus. For information on coronavirus (COVID-19), call the 24-hour Coronavirus Health Information Line on: 1800 020 080.

The Federal Government’s Health Department also has a dedicated coronavirus page on its website and you can also visit the World Health Organisation website.

If you are concerned about travel, guidance for Australians travelling and living overseas can be found on the Smartraveller website.

Next steps

MetLife Australia continues to monitor the situation regarding the spread of the coronavirus. We take our responsibility to our customers and our people very seriously; and are committed to ensuring we continue to serve our customers.

What is Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)?

World Health Organisation ‘WHO’¹ reports: “Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans.  In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.

Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.”

Summary

• MetLife Australia has robust business continuity plans in place.
• You are covered for COVID-19 under your existing Life, Total and Permanent Disability (TPD), Income Protection and Trauma policies.
• Information about the coronavirus can be found on the FGHD and WHO websites.
• MetLife Australia will continue to closely monitor the situation.