Arch Insurance Australia has announced the appointment of Nick Barry (pictured) as accident and health (A&H) underwriting manager for the southern region, effective immediately.
Barry’s new responsibilities include overseeing the A&H portfolio and leading the underwriting team across Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia.
He will operate from Melbourne and report to Jarrod O’Connor, the company’s A&H underwriting manager.
Barry steps into the role after serving as a senior A&H underwriter at Arch.
With close to 10 years of experience in the insurance sector, he has previously worked with ATC Insurance Solutions, Chubb, and Zurich before joining Arch in 2024.
In his new position, Barry is tasked with managing underwriting operations and supporting the company’s strategic objectives in the southern region.
O’Connor said that Barry’s promotion reflects his professional dedication to both brokers and clients in the A&H segment.
“Nick’s promotion is thoroughly deserved and a testament to his outstanding commitment to our A&H brokers and clients. He will be integral to driving our growth as we continue to strengthen our relevance in the market,” he said.
The announcement comes as new research from Money.com.au highlighted changing attitudes among Australians regarding the value of insurance products.
According to a recent national survey, health insurance – particularly extras cover – is viewed by many as offering the best financial return compared to other types of insurance.
Survey data showed that 20% of respondents believe extras policies provide the most savings, with 19% selecting hospital insurance as the next most valuable.
Chris Whitelaw, general manager of health insurance at Money.com.au, said the findings point to a trend where policyholders are increasingly focused on the tangible benefits of extras cover.
“Australians are placing increasing value on the day-to-day savings extras policies offer because you’re generally more likely to claim on dental, physio, optical, and other allied health services than you are on hospital treatments,” he said.
While health insurance extras are seen as providing frequent returns, other insurance products are valued for the security they offer in rare or high-impact situations.
When asked which insurance types deliver the most peace of mind, 88% of survey participants pointed to home and contents insurance, followed by life insurance at 80% and travel insurance at 79%.
