The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) has acknowledged the appointment of Dr Daniel Mulino MP (pictured centre) as assistant treasurer and minister for financial services, signalling a focus on policy engagement in areas critical to brokers, insurers, and financial service providers.
NIBA CEO Richard Klipin (pictured left) said the association anticipates working closely with Mulino on regulatory and market reforms affecting the general insurance broking profession.
He emphasised that brokers are a key component of the insurance claims process, particularly during large-scale events such as the 2022 floods.
“Insurance brokers play a critical role in ensuring that clients have access to quality advice and appropriate cover,” Klipin said. “Dr Mulino brings a strong policy background to a portfolio that is vital to Australiaʼs economic resilience and consumer protection framework.”
Klipin said NIBA will continue to advocate for disaster preparedness initiatives, insurance tax reform, and strategies to maintain a competitive, customer-focused insurance market.
“Brokers are deeply involved in supporting clients throughout the claims process, and their perspective is essential to improving outcomes and rebuilding trust in the insurance system,” he said.
The association also extended its congratulations to returning and newly elected members of Parliament following the recent federal election.
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) echoed support for the new ministerial appointments and outlined its ongoing work with government to mitigate the financial and physical impacts of extreme weather events.
ICA CEO Andrew Hall said the industry will maintain its emphasis on long-term risk reduction and resilience funding.
“Under this new government, insurers look forward to a continued focus on identifying high-risk catchments and investment in resilience and mitigation to reduce those risks,” he said. “In particular, the appointment of Dr Daniel Mulino as assistant treasurer and minister for financial services signals that the prime minister and his government takes seriously the important contribution financial services make to the economy and to the lives of millions of Australians.”
The ICA reiterated its call for the establishment of a $30 billion flood protection program, aimed at building national infrastructure that could lower exposure to weather-related risks and reduce costs for policyholders. Hall said Mulino’s experience chairing the flood inquiry provides a valuable foundation for understanding the industry’s challenges.
The council also noted the appointments of Kristy McBain as minister for emergency management and Chris Bowen as minister for climate change and confirmed it would continue discussions on climate resilience, land-use planning, and housing policy.
In the life insurance space, the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) welcomed Mulino’s new role, noting his involvement in financial system reform.
“We welcome his appointment, and look forward to working with the government to progress
its pre-election commitment to implement the remaining reforms in the Delivering Better
Financial Outcomes package,” said Chris Cupitt, CEO of CALI.
