Australian universities are facing more frequent and damaging hail events, with growing impacts on buildings, research facilities and solar infrastructure. To help the sector respond with evidence rather than assumptions, Unimutual has launched a hail resilience testing research program focused on how building materials actually perform under severe hail conditions.
The research sits within Unimutual’s Resilience by Design initiative and addresses a long‑standing gap in sector guidance. While wind and flood risks are well documented, there is limited independently verified data on the hail impact resistance of commonly used roofing materials, façades and photovoltaic panels.
The project will generate empirical data on damage thresholds across a range of materials and hail sizes. This evidence will be used to inform design decisions, material selection and replacement thresholds, helping universities reduce avoidable losses and disruption before damage occurs.
Testing will be conducted in partnership with the Cyclone Testing Station at James Cook University, a nationally recognised facility whose research underpins engineering practice and standards development across Australia. The project is also being delivered in collaboration with TEFMA, the peak body for tertiary education facilities management, ensuring the outcomes are practical and aligned with campus asset management needs.
Hail damage has been a persistent and costly issue for universities, causing not only repair costs but also interruptions to teaching, research and specialist facilities such as glasshouses. Climate projections indicate that severe hail events are likely to increase in both frequency and intensity, making preventative design choices more important than ever.
Geoff Henderson, Chief Executive Officer of Unimutual, said the research is about strengthening resilience across the whole sector.
“Hail losses are a real and growing issue for universities, but transferring more risk isn’t a long‑term solution. What the sector needs is credible, independent evidence that supports better decisions before the damage happens. By working with James Cook University and TEFMA, we’re turning hard data into practical guidance that facilities teams can actually use, helping protect campuses and keep protection affordable for members.”
Unimutual expects to share findings from the hail resilience testing later in the year, alongside practical guidance for universities.