McLardy McShane has announced the formation of a new joint venture, McLardy McShane Stewart, in partnership with Stewart Insurance Group.
The agreement deepens the companies’ nearly decade-long affiliation and expands McLardy McShane’s footprint across Melbourne’s Bayside and Peninsula markets.
Michael Stewart, who established Stewart Insurance Group and has worked under the McLardy McShane banner as a corporate authorised representative, will continue to oversee the business from its Brighton base.
The transition to a joint venture structure marks a shift from a representative model to a more integrated partnership.
“We love entering a new partnership with people that we have had long-term business relationships with and this is a great example of that,” said Nick McLardy, chief growth officer at McLardy McShane. “Michael has built an incredible business with a strong presence across the Bayside and Peninsula regions, and he has a great group of staff working with him as well.”
Stewart, who began his insurance career in 1999 at Stewart Haig Insurance Brokers before joining Kenyon Insurance Brokers, said the move represents both continuity and growth for his team.
“The company’s focus on personal service is something my team of 18+ staff, and I strive for every day – and we’re always looking to improve. We’re excited to move forward under the McLardy McShane Stewart name and to build a reputation as the ‘go-to’ broker,” he said. “With a growing focus on the Mornington Peninsula, we aim to be a company that truly understands and supports the local community. I’d like to sincerely thank Don, Mike, Meg, Nick , and the wider McLardy McShane team for their ongoing support.”
The Stewart partnership is the third such venture McLardy McShane has initiated in 2025.
In January, the group entered the Queensland market with the acquisition of Dixon Insurance Services. Based in Brisbane, the firm has been affiliated with McLardy McShane since 2022. It continues under its existing brand, with founder Ken Dixon remaining actively involved.
The Queensland venture has also added Taylor Burstow to its leadership team. Burstow joined the firm in September 2024 and brings over 16 years of industry experience. He was recognised as NIBA’s National Young Broker of the Year in 2023.
In Victoria, McLardy McShane also formalised its relationship with Peak Insurance by launching McLardy McShane Yarra Valley. The business is being led by Matthew Kohler, formerly the owner of Peak Insurance, along with Rhian Greaves. Both have more than three decades of industry experience and have longstanding connections to the region.
