Insurers should help storm-hit: govt

Insurance companies should fulfil their responsibilities to storm-hit residents in the nation's eastern states, the federal government says.

The federal government expects insurers to fulfil their obligations to storm-hit east coast residents.

The insurance bill for property damage caused by the monster storm in recent days totals $56 million already, amid concerns homes may not be insured for "actions of the sea".

"The government would expect the insurance companies will fulfil their obligation to people," Justice Minister Michael Keenan told ABC radio on Wednesday.