Steadfast Group has established a program aimed at supporting the next generation of brokers through engagement with senior industry figures and peer networking opportunities.
The Steadfast Young Insurance Professionals Group serves as a professional development initiative for brokers aged 35 and under within the Steadfast network. Events held during 2025 in Sydney and Melbourne have brought together younger brokers for discussions on current industry matters. The program has covered topics relevant to insurance operations. Participants examined methods for building professional connections across the sector, considered approaches to underwriting and claims handling, and explored how digital tools – including insurtech solutions, artificial intelligence, and data analytics – might affect client experience.
Kasun Jayaratne, general manager – AU network, broker, risk & insurer service at Steadfast Group, stated the program’s main purpose. “Our goal for the Steadfast Young Insurance Professionals Group is to foster continuous growth, collaboration, and a strong sense of community across the Steadfast network,” Jayaratne said.
Jayaratne emphasised the contribution that younger members make to industry progress. “Our young members bring a different perspective, they grew up in the age of digital for example, and their experience and insights are crucial for how both Steadfast and the wider insurance industry continue to innovate to meet the changing needs of brokers and their clients,” he said.
The structure of the program combines mentorship with peer-based learning opportunities. “We have been able to give our young brokers the opportunity to hear from some of our leaders at these events, but they’ve also been designed to encourage discussion and debate on the opportunities and challenges our young talent have identified,” Jayaratne said.
Steadfast intends to broaden program participation. “It’s been really exciting to hear from our members who attended the Young Insurance Professionals Group at our first events in Sydney and Melbourne, and we’re looking forward to expanding the initiative and supporting the networking and development opportunities for our young professionals nationwide,” Jayaratne said.
Addressing a different segment of recruitment, Steadfast has reopened its 2026 Graduate Program, with recruitment completed earlier this year. The 12-month scheme begins in February 2026, offering full-time roles on a hybrid basis from the Sydney office and representing another route into the insurance sector.
The program accepts applications from individuals holding qualifications in actuarial studies, business, commerce, data science and analytics, finance, human resources, information technology, and marketing. Compensation is offered between $70,000 and $80,000 per year.
The graduate scheme operates through four consecutive three-month placements within key functional areas: underwriting, broking support, operations, and digital transformation. This arrangement enables graduates to gain practical knowledge across multiple departments.
