The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) has named the finalists for its 2025 Claims Broker of the Year award, an annual recognition that highlights the expertise of insurance brokers in claims management.
The announcement comes as the association prepares for its upcoming convention, which will feature several new initiatives aimed at supporting professional development and industry engagement.
NIBA’s Claims Broker of the Year award, sponsored by Sedgwick, is designed to acknowledge brokers who have demonstrated proficiency and leadership in claims handling. This year’s shortlist includes:
The association emphasises that claims management is a central function for brokers, as outlined in the Insurance Brokers Code of Practice. Brokers are expected to work closely with both insurers and clients to navigate the claims process, ensuring fair outcomes and supporting clients through complex situations.
NIBA CEO Richard Klipin commented on the importance of the claims process in broking.
“Claims is an integral area where the value of broking comes to life for clients. These finalists have shown outstanding skill, professionalism and care in guiding clients through the claims process, and we are proud to recognise their contributions,” he said.
Sedgwick’s client director, Colin McEnery, also acknowledged the significance of the award.
“We are proud to partner with NIBA on this award, which shines a light on the impact brokers have in the claims space. The calibre of applications this year was exceptional. Congratulations to Wendy, Campbell, Linh, and Simon on being named finalists. We wish them the best of luck ahead of the winner’s announcement,” he said.
The recipient of the 2025 Claims Broker of the Year award will be announced at the NIBA Convention, scheduled for Oct. 19 to 21 at the RACV Royal Pines on the Gold Coast.
NIBA has introduced several additions to its annual convention, aiming to enhance the experience for delegates and encourage greater industry interaction.
Among the changes is the introduction of the “Fringe Stage,” a new platform in the Convention Marketplace that will host brief, focused presentations on industry trends and innovation.
The convention will also feature morning masterclasses, where industry leaders and subject matter experts will discuss pressing issues such as insurtech developments, regulatory changes, the growth of underwriting agencies, and climate-related challenges. These sessions are intended to provide practical insights and foster discussion among brokers.
For the first time, the event will span three full days, beginning with Sunday social activities including a golf tournament, tennis competition, and a creative paint-and-sip session. These activities are designed to facilitate networking and community building ahead of the formal program.
A new “Wellness Hub” will be available throughout the convention, offering delegates a space to focus on wellbeing between sessions.
Klipin noted that the enhancements reflect NIBA’s commitment to supporting the professional and personal needs of brokers.
“At its heart, the NIBA Convention is about connection, inspiration, and celebrating the role of brokers in our community. This year, we’ve worked hard to ensure delegates experience the familiar spirit of convention alongside exciting new elements that make it truly unmissable,” he said.
NIBA has reported a record level of participation in its 2025 Broker Market Survey, with more than 1,000 brokers providing feedback on general insurers and their products.
The survey, conducted by NielsenIQ, is used to inform the NIBA Insurer Awards, which recognise excellence in categories such as Large General Insurer of the Year, Specialty Insurer of the Year, and Underwriting Agency of the Year.
Klipin highlighted the significance of the increased engagement.
“These record numbers show that our community is engaged, invested, and committed to shaping the future of insurance broking. Their insights help us benchmark industry excellence and ensure that broker voices inform the recognition of insurers who are leading the way in delivering value to clients,” he said.
The results of the survey and the winners of the insurer awards will be announced at the upcoming convention on the Gold Coast.
