Insurance Australia Group Ltd. strengthened its reinsurance cover through the purchase of A$1 billion of additional catastrophe protection.

IAG already runs a program, which provides gross reinsurance protection of up to A$7 billion. Details of the additional cover include a contractual period of 19 months, starting June 1, and placement to the extent of 80%, the company said June 9.

As of June 9, US$1 was equivalent to A$1.33.