Katrina Shanks

ANZIIF’s 38th General Insurance Breakfast returns on Tuesday 28 July, bringing together industry leaders and professionals for a timely debate on the forces reshaping general insurance.

This year’s Breakfast builds on the momentum with a stronger focus on the strategic, regulatory and commercial pressures redefining the industry. As customer expectations rise, regulatory scrutiny intensifies and market conditions continue to evolve, the event will explore a central question facing the sector:

“Brokers. Insurers. Agencies.
Who holds the influence; and who is driving meaningful progress?”

The General Insurance Breakfast remains one of the industry’s most established and influential forums for insight-led discussion, bringing together professionals across broking, underwriting, agencies, insurance services and leadership roles looking to stay ahead of change.

Held from 7:30am to 9:30am, the Breakfast will feature ANZIIF’s proven debate format, designed to challenge perspectives, encourage open discussion and unpack the trends shaping the future of general insurance.

A dedicated industry update session will also provide a timely overview of key regulatory and policy developments shaping general insurance.

ANZIIF CEO Katrina Shanks says the Breakfast continues to stand out because it creates space for the industry’s most important conversations at a time of significant change.

The Breakfast also offers valuable networking opportunities over a seated breakfast, giving attendees the opportunity to connect with peers, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships across the industry.

The General Insurance Breakfast is conducted under Chatham House Rule to encourage open discussion and the sharing of ideas and insights.

Early bird pricing is available until Friday 12 June, with individual tickets and table bookings now open.

Seats are expected to fill quickly. Reserve your place at the table and be part of the conversation.

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Scott Leney was re-appointed as ANZIIF President, with Brendan Dunne continuing as Deputy President.

The AGM also confirmed the appointment of Blazenka Skender, Head of People & HR Business Support, APAC at Everest, to the ANZIIF Board.

Leney thanked outgoing past President Ben Bessell for his leadership and contribution to the organisation since joining the Board in 2019.

“Ben has made a significant contribution to ANZIIF during a period of important transition and strategic development for the organisation,” Leney said.

“His leadership, professionalism and commitment to the industry have helped position ANZIIF strongly for the future.”

Leney said the organisation remained committed to supporting professionalism and capability uplift across the insurance and risk sector.

“Our priority is ensuring ANZIIF continues to provide trusted guidance, robust learning pathways and ethical leadership as the sector navigates rapid technological change,” he said.

“We remain committed to growing our impact, deepening our partnerships and ensuring ANZIIF continues to set the benchmark for skills elevation and professional recognition.”

The AGM also recognised the contribution of departed Board members Kimberley Jonsson, Diego Ascani, Tim Tez and Catherine Dixon, and acknowledged Claire Young following her appointment as the organisation’s Chief Operating Officer.

ANZIIF CEO Katrina Shanks congratulated the organisation’s 2025 graduates during the graduation ceremony following the AGM.

“In a fast-changing and more complex world; shaped by climate risk, rising customer expectations, emerging technologies and global uncertainty, we need more than qualified professionals,” Shanks said.

“We need true insurance professionals, people who bring together technical expertise, empathy, curiosity and a strong sense of responsibility.”

The AGM also highlighted ANZIIF’s continued investment in education, member experience and industry engagement, alongside a strong financial position and an ongoing strategy refresh examining the future of professionalism in insurance.

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Katrina Shanks

As regulatory expectations on Responsible Managers continue to increase, ANZIIF has launched a new short course, RG105 Responsible Managers, designed to support professionals responsible for maintaining organisational competence under the AFSL regime.

Under ASIC’s RG105, AFSL licensees must demonstrate organisational competence under s912A(1)(e). Responsibility sits directly with nominated Responsible Managers (RMs) across broking, underwriting, claims, compliance and operations.

Responsible Managers are under growing pressure to demonstrate capability, oversight and accountability in practice.

This course is designed specifically for current Responsible Managers and those overseeing RM obligations.

It is particularly relevant for professionals responsible for day-to-day financial services decisions, including senior brokers, claims leaders, underwriters, compliance managers and operational leaders.

Responsible Managers are required to demonstrate ongoing competence each year to maintain compliance as regulatory expectations evolve. Importantly, this course supports this annual compliance requirement and provides a practical, efficient way to evidence capability and support audit readiness.

Through practical scenarios, interactive activities and applied assessment, participants build the capability to:

• Understand and apply RG105 in day-to-day decision-making
• Demonstrate organisational competence in line with ASIC expectations
• Take a risk-based approach to oversight, escalation and governance
• Respond to current regulatory priorities including DDO, scams, technology risk and unfair contract terms.

ANZIIF CEO Katrina Shanks says the course addresses a clear industry need for practical, repeatable compliance capability.

“Responsible Managers sit at the heart of organisational competence, and expectations have never been higher,” Shanks says.

“This course provides a clear and practical way for Responsible Managers to meet their annual compliance obligations, while strengthening the quality of decision-making across their organisations.

“It’s designed to build knowledge and help professionals demonstrate competence in a way that stands up to regulatory scrutiny.”

The 1-hour online course includes scenario-based learning and knowledge checks, with an option for Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) to support experienced professionals in validating existing skills efficiently.

Completion includes a digital badge and practical resources, with content reviewed annually to reflect regulatory change and emerging risks.

This course is the first in a series of targeted compliance-focused programs ANZIIF is developing to assist insurance professionals in meeting evolving regulatory expectations with confidence.

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Katrina Shanks

ANZIIF will host its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday 21 May 2026 at Rydges North Sydney, followed by a Graduation Ceremony celebrating student achievement across the profession.

Bringing together members from across Australia, New Zealand and Asia, the event reflects ANZIIF’s role in supporting a connected and professional insurance community.

The AGM provides ANZIIF members with the opportunity to engage with the organisation’s governance and strategic direction, including consideration of reports and financial statements, and updates on board composition.

Following the formal proceedings of the AGM, the Graduation Ceremony will recognise the accomplishments of members who have completed qualifications and advanced their professional capability over the past year.

The combined event highlights ANZIIF’s ongoing commitment to raising professional standards while fostering connection and capability across the industry.

ANZIIF CEO Katrina Shanks says the event combines reflection, recognition and connection.

“This is an important moment for our members to come together, reflect on the year that was, and recognise the achievements across the profession,” she says.

“Our members are at the heart of everything we do. Their commitment to learning, professionalism and supporting one another is what continues to strengthen the industry.”

The event is open to ANZIIF members and invited guests, with the AGM component exclusive to members only.

Program:

• Annual General Meeting | 12:30 – 1:30pm | Whiteley Room
• Graduation Ceremony | 1:30 – 2:00pm | Whiteley Room
• Networking and Refreshments | 2:00 – 3:00pm | Whiteley Room

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Irene Lai

ANZIIF is marking a major milestone, with the 60th year of its Reinsurance International Study Course (RISC) continuing to deliver one of the most immersive and sought-after learning experiences.

Widely regarded as the premier reinsurance program in the southern hemisphere, RISC equips professionals with the capability and confidence required for leadership in today’s complex risk environment.

Delivered over four intensive days, the program combines expert-led sessions with hands-on syndicate work, covering areas including risk appetite, capital management, catastrophe modelling and program structuring.

For decades, RISC has helped shape leading minds across insurance and reinsurance, building technical expertise while strengthening how participants think, collaborate and lead in real-world contexts.

Irene Lai, Group Head of Underwriting Governance, Sustainability and Standards, QBE, and Chair of the RISC Organising Committee, said the program’s enduring strength lies in its ability to translate complex concepts into real-world capability.
“RISC is designed to challenge participants to think beyond theory and engage with the real decisions that shape reinsurance outcomes. The syndicate model creates an environment where people can test ideas, learn from experienced practitioners and build the confidence to apply those insights in their own roles.”

At the heart of RISC is its signature syndicate simulation, an intensive, hands-on experience where participants step into the role of decision-makers, working in teams to design a reinsurance program for a fictional insurer.

Guided by expert syndicate leaders from across the globe, participants define risk appetite, evaluate options, engage with stakeholders and present recommendations to a simulated Board.

The experience mirrors the realities of the market, building both technical capability and commercial judgement.

RISC also offers direct access to the reinsurance market, along with the opportunity to build meaningful professional connections through shared challenges and collaboration.

Participants leave with a deeper understanding of how reinsurance interacts with strategy, financial performance and regulatory requirements, along with stronger communication, teamwork and decision-making skills.

What’s included:

• An unforgettable four‑day immersive program
• Three nights’ stay at a premium 4.5‑star hotel
• Chef‑designed dining experience across all four days, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner fully catered
• Expert-led sessions and real-world case study
• Syndicate simulation with dedicated mentorship
• Networking with industry leaders and peers
• 15 ANZIIF CIP points upon completion

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Mark Silveira

ANZIIF has announced the launch of a new high-impact learning experience in partnership with global specialists Unicorn Simulations, Underwriting DNA Insurance Simulation, an innovative virtual program designed to transform how underwriting capability is built and accelerate capability uplift across the insurance industry.

Held over two half-days, the simulation places participants inside a live, competitive insurance environment making real-time underwriting decisions across multiple classes of business, enabling them to see the immediate impact on performance, profitability and risk.

Rather than learning in isolation, participants apply concepts in a realistic, data-driven simulation environment, accelerating capability through experience, not theory.

Underwriting decisions carry real consequences, but in Underwriting DNA, participants can test, refine and build confidence in a risk-free setting, developing judgement, resilience and commercial awareness earlier in their careers.

The program shifts the focus from transactional underwriting to strategic portfolio management, equipping participants to balance growth, profitability, customer outcomes and risk appetite in a complex, evolving market.

Underwriting DNA is based on real-world data and has been delivered across leading global insurance markets, enabling participants to experience six years of underwriting activity within a compressed, interactive format.

Designed for early-career underwriters (0–3 years) and professionals in other roles such as operations or claims seeking broader underwriting insights, Underwriting DNA builds portfolio decision-making skills within a wider business and strategic context.

Participants will develop the ability to:

• Make more informed underwriting decisions across pricing, limits and risk appetite
• Understand and apply reinsurance structures
• Improve financial performance through better expense and portfolio management
• Analyse KPIs including ROCE, renewal rates and market share
• Collaborate effectively in dynamic, team-based environments
• Connect underwriting decisions to broader business and customer outcomes

Mark Silveira, General Manager Industry Engagement at ANZIIF, says: “The underwriting function is evolving, and capability needs to evolve with it. The Underwriting DNA Insurance Simulation moves learning beyond theory, giving participants the opportunity to make real-time decisions in a dynamic environment and build the commercial judgement our industry increasingly demands.”
Are you ready to reimagine underwriting, build real capability, gain practical skills, a commercial mindset and the confidence to make smarter decisions?

About the facilitator

The program is facilitated by Charlotte Phillips of Unicorn Simulations, an experienced global trainer who has delivered simulation-based learning for organisations including Allianz, AXA and Zurich, working with participants from early-career professionals through to senior leaders.

Program details:

Dates: Two half-days: 7 & 14 May
Time: 9:00am–12:00pm (AEST)
Format: Virtual (Zoom)
Capacity: 30 participants

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Hosted by ANZIIF, the annual Australian Insurance Industry Awards are highly regarded as one of the sector’s most respected recognition programs. The Awards highlight innovation, professionalism and leadership while fostering a strong sense of community and connection across the profession.

The Awards recognise excellence across the full breadth of the insurance sector, including general insurance, life insurance, broking, claims, underwriting, insurtech, authorised representative networks, professional services and service providers.

Two prestigious honours also recognise outstanding individual leadership and lifetime contribution to the profession.

A new fully automated digital platform has also been introduced, making the free submission process faster and easier for busy professionals to nominate themselves or their organisation.

2026 Awards Categories:

• Authorised Representative Network of the Year
• Claims Team of the Year
• Insurtech Start-up of the Year
• Small-Medium Broking Company of the Year
• Large Broking Company of the Year
• Small-Medium General Insurance Company of the Year
• Large General Insurance Company of the Year
• Small-Medium Underwriting Agency of the Year
• Large Underwriting Agency of the Year
• Life Insurance Company of the Year
• Professional Services Firm of the Year
• Service Provider to the Insurance Industry
• Young Insurance Professional of the Year
• Insurance Leader of the Year
• ANZIIF Lifetime Achievement Award

(Please note: Submissions are not required for the Insurance Leader of the Year and ANZIIF Lifetime Achievement Award. These awards are determined through a separate industry nomination and judging process.)

Nominations for these two categories will be sought from key industry stakeholders, including regulators, the ANZIIF Board, Faculty Advisory and Member Advisory Boards and Councils, and members of the judging panel.

Last year’s ANZIIF Australian Insurance Industry Awards winners include: Warren Saunders Insurance Brokers, Aon, Community Broker Network (CBN), NTI, Adica Insurance, QBE, NobleOak Life, ClaimsGateway, Finity, EML, Swiss Re and MHIA’s Ben McInnes.

Katrina Shanks, CEO of ANZIIF, says the 22nd ANZIIF Australian Insurance Industry Awards continue to play an important role in driving progress within the value chain.

“The 22nd ANZIIF Australian Insurance Industry Awards celebrate the individuals and organisations strengthening our profession through innovation, professionalism and a deep commitment to supporting customers and communities. They recognise the achievements that build capability in our industry and inspire the next generation of insurance professionals.”

Organisations and individuals across the sector are encouraged to submit entries to acknowledge the achievements and contribution of their teams over the last financial year.

Winners will be announced at the 22nd ANZIIF Australian Insurance Industry Awards ceremony on Thursday 13 August 2026. Submissions are now open and close on Sunday 17 May 2026.

Building on last year’s success, the 2026 Awards will be hosted at Sydney’s iconic International Convention Centre for the first time. With an enhanced event experience and an even more dynamic program, this year’s celebration promises an unforgettable evening reflecting the exceptional impact of the Australian insurance industry.

Key dates

• Submissions close: Sunday, 17 May 2026
• Finalists announced: Tuesday, 30 June 2026
• Awards ceremony: Thursday, 13 August 2026

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Mei Sun Yee

ANZIIF is proud to launch the 2026 ANZIIF Business School, a new industry learning initiative designed to equip insurance professionals with the skills and insights needed to confidently navigate the rapidly evolving risk landscape.

Designed as a university-style learning experience, the program will feature four expert-led sessions delivered across a single day, combining practical expertise with peer exchange.

The inaugural event will be held on Thursday 18 June at the University of Technology Sydney, where participants will hear directly from industry leaders and gain insights that can be applied immediately in the workplace.

Participants will learn the latest developments on the following topics:

Session 1

The Future Direction of Insurance in Australia (Speaker to be announced shortly)

Session 2

Trends in Quality Assurance & Regulatory Operations

Speakers:

• Prue Monument – General Manager Code Compliance, AFCA
• Jared Orth – Senior Manager Code Compliance (General Insurance), AFCA
• Insurance Broking Presenter – AFCA (Speaker to be announced shortly)

Session 3

Cyber: Trends and Emerging Products including AI (Speaker to be announced shortly)

Session 4

The Growing Impact of Natural Catastrophes on the Insurance Industry

Speaker: Dr Mei Sun Yee – Analytics Manager Australasia, Munich Re

ANZIIF is pleased to announce that Prue Monument, General Manager Code Compliance, Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) will lead the session covering trends in quality assurance.

This timely session will examine the key challenges facing general insurers, life insurers and insurance brokers, including the navigation of emerging risks, meeting community expectations, and delivering good customer outcomes.

Joined by Jared Orth, AFCA Senior Manager Code Compliance (General Insurance), Prue will lead a panel discussion to share takeaways from her work monitoring Code compliance and explore how insurers and brokers can better meet their Code commitments.

In addition, ANZIIF welcomes Dr Mei Sun Yee, Analytics Manager Australasia, Munich Re to present The Impact of Natural Catastrophes on the Insurance Industry. Dr Yee will explore the growing impact of natural catastrophes and how insurers are redefining the way risk is assessed, priced and transferred.

This session unpacks the shift in claims patterns, the emergence of parametric insurance, and the strategic implications of a world where past data no longer reliably predicts future losses.

A flexible format will allow participants to attend individual sessions of their choice or curate their own personalised experience, complemented by a variety of dedicated networking opportunities.

Between sessions, a sponsorship marketplace will allow professionals to connect with solution providers, explore emerging services and continue important industry conversations.

Katrina Shanks, CEO of ANZIIF, says the ANZIIF Business School initiative reflects the organisation’s mission to prioritise and support professional growth, development and confidence across the industry.

“The ANZIIF Business School reflects our commitment to educating, connecting and leading the insurance profession. By bringing together industry expertise with practical learning, we are helping professionals strengthen capability, raise standards and prepare for the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of our industry,” Shanks says.

Places are limited. Members and non-members are encouraged to secure their sessions early for what promises to be a compelling and energising day of learning.

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Geraldine Hickey

ANZIIF is delighted to announce award-winning comedian Geraldine Hickey as MC for the 53rd South Australian Charity Luncheon, set to light up the Adelaide Convention Centre on 29 May.

One of Australia’s most beloved stand-up performers, Geraldine Hickey will bring her trademark observational humour, warmth and razor-sharp wit to one of South Australia’s most anticipated industry events.

Winner of Best Show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and selected for the prestigious New Faces showcase at Just For Laughs Montreal, Geraldine has built a reputation as a master storyteller; effortlessly turning low-key yarns into high-stakes comedic rollercoasters. From sold-out theatre tours to a Top 5 finish on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, she continues to win audiences nationwide.

A familiar face on Australian television, Geraldine has appeared on Have You Been Paying Attention?, The Project, Tonightly with Tom Ballard, and Hughesy, We Have a Problem, and is a long-time co-host of the revered RRR breakfast program Breakfasters. Her stand-up specials are also available on Paramount+, further cementing her status as one of the country’s most engaging comedic voices.

Now in its 53rd year, the South Australian Charity Luncheon is a cornerstone of the insurance community calendar bringing industry leaders together to connect, celebrate and raise vital funds for charity.

With Geraldine at the helm, this year’s event promises energy, heart and unforgettable moments.

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Katrina Shanks

ANZIIF is proud to announce the return of one of South Australia’s most respected industry traditions: the ANZIIF South Australian Charity Luncheon, to be held in 2026 with a refreshed format and a renewed focus on industry impact.

A cornerstone of the South Australian insurance calendar for more than five decades, the 53rd luncheon brings together professionals from across underwriting, broking, claims, risk and leadership to collaboratively deliver positive social outcomes.

In 2026, the event will support The Zahra Foundation, an Adelaide-based domestic violence prevention service providing practical support and pathways to independence for women impacted by abuse. All proceeds from the luncheon will go directly to Zahra’s frontline programs.

ANZIIF CEO Katrina Shanks says the luncheon reflects the organisation’s purpose of advancing professional excellence through meaningful membership and industry leadership.

“The South Australian Charity Luncheon is a powerful example of insurance professionals leading with purpose; to strengthen connections while making a tangible difference in the community we serve,” Shanks says.

She adds that the 2026 ANZIIF South Australian Charity Luncheon reinforces the value of industry coming together not just to connect, but to lead.

Zahra Foundation says events like the ANZIIF South Australian Charity Luncheon demonstrate the power of industry coming together to drive real social change.

“This partnership will enable Zahra Foundation to continue delivering practical support and long-term solutions for women rebuilding their lives after domestic abuse.”

Renowned as South Australia’s largest insurance industry networking event, the luncheon combines a premium three-course dining experience with curated fundraising activities, including a silent auction, creating a setting where relationships and collective impact are amplified.

The refreshed 2026 format underscores ANZIIF’s commitment to delivering high-quality, member-led events that foster connection, knowledge sharing and professional pride, while supporting causes that align with industry responsibility and trust.

Event highlights:

• Premium three-course luncheon in a professional, peer-led setting
• Networking across the South Australian insurance and finance sector
• Engaging fundraising activities, including a silent auction
• Direct support for an Adelaide-based charity delivering measurable community impact

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