Steadfast Group Limited has confirmed that Robert Kelly AM (pictured) will resume his duties as managing director and chief executive officer following the completion of an external investigation into a workplace complaint. The company reported that the investigation, which began in late October, has now concluded confidentially, and no further details have been released regarding the outcome.
During the investigation, Kelly temporarily stepped aside from his executive responsibilities, remaining on full pay. Tim Mathieson, CEO of Australasian Broking, was appointed as acting CEO during this period and will now return to his previous role.
In a recent statement, the company said: “The external investigation into the workplace complaint has concluded on a confidential basis. Mr Robert Kelly AM will return to his role as Steadfast’s managing director & CEO.” Steadfast’s board did not provide further comment, citing the confidential nature of the investigation and the fact that no allegations had been substantiated.
Robert Kelly co-founded Steadfast Group in 1996 and has served as managing director and chief executive officer since then. Steadfast Group operates more than 1,100 offices across Australia and New Zealand and is listed on the ASX 200. Kelly has served on the board of ACORD since 2011 and is also a director of the Steadfast Foundation and KidsXpress Limited.
The temporary change in Steadfast’s leadership in late October led to responses from insurance professionals. One broker told Insurance Business: “My reaction was surprise. I hold Robert in high esteem – as I think most of the industry does – because of what he’s achieved.” Another broker commented that he was “shocked to hear the news that Robert has stepped aside.”
Kelly has overseen Steadfast’s expansion into markets outside Australia, including the UK and the US. He has received industry accolades, such as the Insurance Business Australia’s 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Steadfast and Kelly have also faced public scrutiny. In 2024, an ABC Four Corners report questioned the company’s business practices and its influence in the strata insurance sector. Steadfast rejected all suggestions of unethical conduct.
Reflecting on Kelly’s leadership, one broker told Insurance Business: “Kelly, like many from his generation, sometimes expresses himself in ways that are not suited to the filter of today’s more woke environment. But those can’t be excuses. It doesn’t matter who you are.”
With the investigation concluded, Steadfast Group has resumed normal operations. The company operates in the insurance sector in Australia and New Zealand through its broker network and agency operations. No further statements regarding the investigation are expected, as Steadfast has indicated the matter is closed and confidential.
