McLardy McShane has expanded into Tasmania through a new joint venture based in Hobart, marking the first time the insurance group has a direct presence in every Australian state and territory.
The new entity, McLardy McShane Tasmania, will be led by local broker Tom Allwright, who joins the business with experience in the Tasmanian market.
The partnership is the latest in a series of joint venture arrangements used by the company to extend its national footprint.
According to Nick McLardy, chief growth officer, the addition of Tasmania addresses the last gap in the company's national coverage.
“Tasmania has been a clear void in our network for some time now, so it’s very exciting to be announcing this new expansion,” he said.
He noted that Allwright’s experience and alignment with the company’s operating principles made the decision straightforward.
“Since our first meeting with him, our team has been very confident Tom will be the ideal associate, with his great character and local knowledge,” McLardy said.
Allwright, speaking on the new venture, said McLardy McShane’s community-oriented model was a key factor in the partnership.
“What stood out to me straight away was how genuine the McLardy McShane team is about looking after their clients and giving back to the communities they’re part of,” he said. “That’s always been important to me, and it’s what made this such an easy decision.”
The Tasmania expansion follows a series of similar moves by the company across multiple states.
In early 2025, McLardy McShane announced a joint venture in Queensland following the acquisition of Dixon Insurance Services. The Brisbane-based business had been operating as a corporate authorised representative since 2022.
Founder Ken Dixon remains involved in the business, which continues to trade under its original name.
The Brisbane operation also brought in Taylor Burstow, who joined the firm in September 2024. Burstow has over 16 years of experience and was named National NIBA Young Broker of the Year in 2023.
In Victoria, the company broadened its presence in February 2025 through a new branch in the Yarra Valley. The branch is led by Matthew Kohler and Rhian Greaves, who each bring over three decades of industry experience.
The move follows McLardy McShane’s acquisition of Peak Insurance, formerly run by Kohler as an authorised representative.
In May 2025, McLardy McShane formalised a long-term partnership with Stewart Insurance Group, converting its relationship from an authorised representative model to a full joint venture.
The business, now operating as McLardy McShane Stewart, is led by Michael Stewart from its Brighton office.
Stewart, who began his career in 1999 and has worked under the McLardy McShane name for several years, said the transition reflects both continuity and future planning.
“The company’s focus on personal service is something my team of 18+ staff, and I strive for every day – and we’re always looking to improve,” he said.
