Avant Mutual has formalised a partnership with the New Zealand Medical Indemnity Insurance (NZMII).
The partnership aims to provide continuous indemnity protection for doctors in training and resident medical officers (RMOs) who undertake placements in New Zealand.
This collaboration is intended to allow these medical professionals to maintain their indemnity coverage without disruption while working across borders, subject to specific terms and conditions.
The initiative is part of Avant Mutual’s broader engagement with the medical sector.
The organisation works with a range of medical colleges, associations, and societies to strengthen its understanding of member needs and to support the wider healthcare community.
According to Avant, these partnerships are designed to foster knowledge-sharing on claims trends and to contribute to educational and advocacy efforts within the profession.
“We work closely with professional bodies to contribute to a better and safer healthcare system. In partnering with professional bodies, Avant also share knowledge on claims trends, enabling us to contribute to education programs and advocacy,” it said on its website.
The organisation also noted its involvement in over 700 events each year, including national conferences and local meetings, as well as its support for more than 30 medical bodies across Australia.
The announcement of the NZMII partnership coincides with a leadership transition at Avant Mutual.
Dr Steve Hambleton, chair of Avant Mutual, has confirmed that Adrian Urquhart will become group CEO and managing director from Oct. 1.
Urquhart, who has served as chief financial officer since September 2023, will succeed Natasha Fenech, who is stepping down to pursue a portfolio career as a non-executive director.
Hambleton commented on the appointment, saying: “On behalf of the Avant board, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Adrian Urquhart as group CEO & managing director of Avant. He is a natural leader who genuinely cares about our membership, and it is particularly pleasing to promote an internal candidate to this pivotal role.”
Urquhart previously held senior finance roles at TOGA and AMP before joining Avant.
During her five-year tenure, Fenech oversaw a period of significant expansion for Avant Mutual.
The organisation reported substantial growth in its medical indemnity business, increased revenue to nearly $700 million, and expanded its workforce more than threefold.
Avant also broadened its service offerings, launching new businesses and acquiring interests in several companies, including Cgov, Hoxton, Kooyong, and a quarter share in Team Medical.
Hambleton acknowledged Ms Fenech’s contributions.
“We will be farewelling Natasha Fenech, who has led Avant Mutual superbly during her tenure,” he said. “She has worked tirelessly for our members and leaves Avant as a vibrant, professionally managed mutual that remains focused on delivering in the best interests of its members.”
