A new mentor program has been rolled out to connect experienced insurance professionals with younger mentees with fewer than five years’ experience.

The program, launched by the Australian Insurance Law Association (AILA), is starting in Victoria with Thomson Geer as sponsor; and has the potential to expand interstate after its initial year is evaluated.

The program will provide younger mentees with the opportunity to benefit from the experience of mentors from all areas of the insurance industry; while mentors will get the chance to “give something back to the industry.”

“It’s not a lifetime relationship, but a six-month commitment for mentors to assist mentees with career development and sharing general advice,” said Cameron Roberts, AILA national board member and a partner with Thomson Geer.

AILA said there will be an annual mentor of the year award.

The program's success would be determined based by the “raw numbers willing to participate” and feedback from participants, Roberts said.

Victorian-based applicants for mentors and mentees can register online until April 23. Mentors and mentees will be matched by AILA and then be invited to attend an information session. After the event, mentors and mentees can set their regular meetings on their own.