Ausure has formalised a strategic partnership with Zurich, naming the insurer as its first key partner for 2025.
The agreement builds on several years of cooperation between the two organisations and signals deeper collaboration in the broker channel.
Under the new arrangement, Zurich will engage more closely with Ausure’s authorised representative network, contributing across areas such as product distribution, broker education, and business development support.
Zurich operates exclusively through intermediated channels in Australia, a model that aligns with Ausure’s broker-first approach.
Ausure general manager for operations and underwriting Mick O’Bree said the partnership is a natural progression of existing efforts.
“I am very pleased that Ausure now has Zurich on board as a strategic partner. Zurich brings a unique approach by being dedicated only to brokers, and as such they are ready to work closely with us across a number of new initiatives. Zurich has been very open in listening to what we want for our network, and I’m excited to see what we can do together,” he said.
Giles Crowley, head of commercial market for Zurich in Australia and New Zealand, noted that the collaboration aims to deliver value beyond standard policy offerings.
“Beyond traditional insurance products – spanning property, SME, motor, financial lines, liability, and marine – the agreement will also see Zurich and Ausure share key data insights, thought leadership, training, and events. We look forward to working closely alongside Ausure to provide value to its strong customer base,” he said.
The announcement follows Ausure’s late-2024 acquisition of Queensland-based CPR Insurance Services, expanding its footprint in the region.
These developments were front and centre at the 2025 Ausure National Conference, held in February at The Star Gold Coast.
The conference drew more than 300 attendees, including brokers, underwriting partners, and Ausure staff, with a program focused on market trends, regulatory considerations, and strategic growth.
Chubb supported the event as gold sponsor, and Ausure managing director Troy Brown opened proceedings with acknowledgments and condolences for the late Kurt Nilsen, managing director of Lion Underwriting. Chubb’s national relationship manager Danny Byrnes reaffirmed the insurer’s ongoing collaboration with Ausure’s network.
On the opening day, Ausure’s head office delivered updates on education, compliance, and digital operations. CEO Scott McCarthy urged delegates to review their business models in light of shifting industry conditions.
Motivational keynote speaker Dean Boxall addressed parallels between athletic performance and professional resilience. Feedback from attendees highlighted his session as a standout, alongside industry-specific panels and networking opportunities.
Nicolle Edwards, CEO of domestic violence support organisation RizeUp Australia, presented on the group’s advocacy work. Zurich’s charitable arm, the Z Zurich Foundation, pledged to match donations from conference attendees up to $10,000.
The conference concluded with an awards gala recognising achievements across Ausure’s broker network.
