The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) has announced the recipients of its 2025 state broker awards for Western Australia and New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory.
The awards highlight the achievements of both established and emerging professionals in the insurance broking sector.
In Western Australia, Charles Elders (pictured centre) of Avoca Insurance & Risk was named the 2025 WA Broker of the Year.
The award, sponsored by CGU Insurance, acknowledges senior brokers who demonstrate high standards of professionalism and contribute to the broader insurance community.
CGU executive manager for workers compensation, Dustin Bartley, commented on the selection, noting that Elders’s approach to client service and industry engagement aligns with the values CGU seeks to recognise through its partnership with NIBA.
“CGU congratulates Charles as this year’s WA Broker of the Year state winner. The commitment of Charles to go above and beyond for his clients is why CGU is proud to partner with NIBA for the Broker of the Year award,” he said.
In the category for emerging professionals, Tom Wheeler of Lockton was recognised as the 2025 WA Young Broker of the Year.
This award, supported by Vero, highlights the contributions of early-career brokers who demonstrate commitment to their clients and the profession.
The award was presented by Andrew Nadeau, underwriting manager for Vero’s Western Region.
Vero’s state distribution manager for WA, Shane Butcher, said the company remains committed to supporting the next generation of brokers.
“Tom stood out in this year’s competitive field, showcasing remarkable commitment to clients, colleagues, and the broking profession. Vero is a firm believer in nurturing the next generation of broking leaders, which is why we will continue to support young professionals like Tom,” he said.
At a regional Gala Lunch in Sydney on July 9, NIBA presented the 2025 NSW/ACT Broker of the Year award to Caleb Richards of Gallagher.
The event, held at The Fullerton Hotel, attracted more than 500 insurance professionals and served as the opening event for NIBA’s 2025 Gala Lunch Series.
Michael Frazer, executive manager – underwritten lines at CGU, congratulated Richards and said the award recognises senior brokers who demonstrate expertise and integrity in their roles.
“On behalf of CGU, Iʼd like to congratulate Caleb as this yearʼs NSW/ACT Broker of the Year state winner. His expertise and integrity as a standout senior broker are why CGU is proud to champion broker ambition,” he said.
The 2025 NSW/ACT Young Broker of the Year award was presented to Derek Turner of Aon.
Vero’s state distribution manager for NSW/ACT, Yusuf Alexander, said Turner’s commitment to professional development and client service was evident during the selection process.
“Derek’s passion for the industry and dedication to his clients were evident throughout the selection process. His involvement in professional development is a strong indicator of leadership qualities. We are proud to support brokers like Derek who exemplify the very best of the profession,” he said.
This year, NIBA has introduced partnerships with local charities in each host city as part of the Gala Lunch Series. The initiative is designed to integrate industry recognition with community involvement.
NIBA CEO Richard Klipin said the new approach reflects the association’s commitment to supporting local communities and extending the values of the broking profession beyond the workplace.
“This is a unique opportunity to give back to the communities that support us. Aligning the NIBA Gala Lunches with a local charity extends broking values of care and service to the broader community,” he said.
The 2025 Gala Lunch Series will continue in Perth (July 11), Melbourne (July 18), Brisbane (July 23), and Adelaide (July 25).
