Sydney played host to the 21st annual Australian Insurance Industry Awards, organised by the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF), where more than 850 professionals from across the sector assembled to acknowledge significant contributions and milestones within the industry.
The event, held at The Star Event Centre, featured a program that included performances from aerialist Leo Pentland and Gamilaraay artist Mitch Tambo.
The gathering was designed to foster a sense of unity and highlight the ongoing evolution of the insurance sector.
Two prominent figures in the Australian insurance community received the Lifetime Achiever Award, the highest individual honour of the evening.
Robert Kelly AM, who co-founded Steadfast and serves as its CEO, was recognised for his leadership and influence on the broking sector.
Ian Carr, founder of Insurance Advisernet, was also honoured for his efforts in developing a successful broker network and his long-term impact on the profession.
Both Kelly and Carr were acknowledged for their sustained contributions to the industry, with their work cited as influential in shaping the current insurance landscape in Australia.
The ceremony recognised a broad spectrum of achievements across the insurance value chain, from broking and underwriting to claims management, life insurance, and insurtech.
The following organisations and individuals were named as 2025 award recipients:
In her opening remarks, ANZIIF CEO Katrina Shanks addressed the assembled guests, stating: “Our industry stands as a pillar of trust and resilience – always ready to support customers through times of uncertainty and change.”
Shanks also acknowledged the contributions of sponsors, supporters, and judges, emphasising their role in maintaining high standards and supporting the ongoing development of the profession.
In a recent release, ANZIIF reported that the 2025 Australian Insurance Industry Awards gala reached capacity, prompting the release of an additional 50 tickets in response to demand.
“This unprecedented response highlights the continued prestige of the ANZIIF Australian Insurance Awards and the industry’s appetite to connect, recognise achievements, and honour outstanding contributions,” Shanks said.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the 13th New Zealand Insurance Industry Awards, with entries open until Sept. 1 and the ceremony scheduled for late November in Auckland.
Categories for the New Zealand awards include insurtech, broking, and underwriting, among others.
Shanks commented on the New Zealand event, saying: “The NZ Awards shine a spotlight on the passion, professionalism, and progress that define our industry. It’s about celebrating the people and organisations driving positive change for New Zealanders. I can’t wait to celebrate the success of our industry’s standout performers on the night.”
