Celebrating 30 Years: Ausure Conference 2026
From February 22nd to 24th 2026, the Ausure network gathered in Sydney to mark 30 years of partnership, loyalty and growth. 290 attendees joined us across the three days, bringing together representatives, industry partners and Ausure head office staff from across the country. Set against the backdrop of the Sydney Harbour, the Conference provided an opportunity to reflect on our history, recognise the strength of our network today and look ahead to the future.
Welcome Dinner - Sponsored by Chubb & QBE Qnect
Celebrations officially commenced at Pumphouse Restaurant and Bar in Darling Square for the Ausure Welcome Dinner, proudly sponsored by Chubb and QBE Qnect. The evening provided the perfect opportunity for Authorised Representatives and insurer partners to reconnect, meet new faces and gain a sense of what Ausure had in store for the rest of the Conference.
Returning for the third consecutive year as MC, John Mills, Ausure’s Broking Placement Manager, welcomed delegates and sponsors before handing over to Troy Brown, Managing Director of Ausure, who officially opened this milestone event. Danny Byrnes (Chubb) and Steve Talbot (QBE Qnect) also took to the stage as official sponsors of the event, to share a few words, setting the tone for a Conference centered on partnership and collaboration.
Conference Day One
Day One of Ausure Conference commenced with keynote speaker Nick Abrahams, an AI pioneer and successful entrepreneur. As the creator of the world’s first AI enabled legal chatbot, Parker, and founder of Lawpath, Nick shared insights from his extensive research into how artificial intelligence can enhance business performance. Drawing on his experience as an Adjunct Professor at Bond University, he challenged delegates to think differently about innovation and opportunity in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Ausure’s own leadership team then took to the stage, with Troy Brown, Scott McCarthy and Graeme Lilley reflecting on Ausure’s 30 year journey. From its early beginnings inspired by founder Wayne Brown to the strong national network it is today, the presentation explored the pivotal decisions and defining moments that have shaped the business.
The audience then heard from Sarah Joines of Allianz Insurance, who highlighted how strong relationships, effective use of technology and a customer first culture are essential in setting clients up for long term success.
Jay Hani from NTI Limited shared research into the real drivers behind placement decisions in today’s market, examining how service experience and operational efficiency influence insurance broker choice.
Representing Zurich Insurance, AFLW All Australian Ellie Blackburn and Tackle Your Feelings Program Manager Adam Baldwin explored high performance and mental health. Ellie offered practical insights into leadership and teamwork, reinforcing the importance of supporting people to perform at their best.
Bernie Van Altena from Arteva Funding concluded the formal sessions by examining key economic indicators impacting Australians and why funding solutions matter now more than ever.
Market Stall Networking
Delegates then moved into the highly anticipated Market Stall session, enjoying lunch across four hours of networking with 45 sponsors and exhibitors. With a mix of Gold, Silver and Bronze partners represented, the space created a vibrant environment for meaningful discussion and collaboration. Two coffee carts, sponsored by Gold Sponsors QBE and Chubb, ensured conversations continued over a well earned cup of coffee.
A special thank you to QBE, who managed to combine a worthy cause with a bit of fun by inviting delegates to ‘shoot for a cause’ – with every successful netball thrown into the hoop contributing to Ausure’s charity of choice, RizeUp Australia, and raising a total of $3,000 during the Market Stall.
Awards Gala Dinner – Pearls and Diamonds - Sponsored by NTI
The highlight of the Conference was the Awards Gala Dinner, proudly sponsored by NTI. Inspired by pearls and diamonds, the evening began with pre dinner drinks in the Pearl Ballroom Foyer before guests enjoyed a three course meal, the awards ceremony and live entertainment.
During the evening, John Mills announced an update on funds raised for RizeUp Australia, in partnership with the Z Zurich Foundation, which continued its commitment from last years conference to match donations up to $10,000 raised.
Jay Hani, representing NTI as Gala sponsor, welcomed guests and expressed appreciation for the strong partnership between NTI and Ausure.
2026 Award Winners
Wayne Brown Award
The evening commenced with the introduction of a brand new accolade, the Wayne Brown Award. Presented by Graeme Lilley, General Manager of Distribution, the award recognises an individual who consistently gives it a fair go and demonstrates genuine passion for what they do.
Ausure Founder Wayne Brown was invited to the stage to share a few words and present the inaugural award, a fitting tribute to his legacy and the values on which Ausure was built.
The introduction of this award was a powerful reminder of the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to define the network, with the 2026 inaugural winner being Gaye Legudi.
Congratulations to our finalists:
Tim Dale – Ausure Insurance & Finance Echuca
Ben Price – Bridgewise Insurance Brokers
Fastest Growing Branch Award - Sponsored by Lion Underwriting
Presented by Mick O’Bree, General Manager of Operations and Underwriting, this award celebrates outstanding business growth, recognising a branch that has demonstrated strategic focus, resilience and sustained performance over the past year.
The 2026 winner was Bridgewise Insurance Brokers, and was accepted by Managing Director, Ben Price on behalf of the Bridgewise team.
Congratulations to our finalists:
Insurebiz – Sinan Sarah
Dunbar Insurance – Alex Dunbar
Young Achiever Award - Sponsored by QBE Qnect
Presented by Adam Sloan, General Manager – Development, alongside Steve Talbot, this award acknowledges a young professional who demonstrates exceptional professionalism, integrity and leadership potential. The winner receives an invitation to attend the ANZIIF business school, further investing in the development of emerging talent within the network.
The 2026 winner of the Young Achiever Award was Will Bird from Insure 247 Australia.
“I’d like to extend a massive thank you to Ausure for another outstanding conference celebrating its 30th year, and to QBE for sponsoring the award. I’m truly honoured to receive this award among so many talented brokers within our industry. I am incredibly grateful to the Ausure Group and management team for their continued investment in my professional and personal growth. To my Insure 24/7 team, thank you for always backing me. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and can’t wait to see what’s next in 2026 and beyond.”
Congratulations to our finalists:
Jim Pichaloff – Lambourne Partners Insurance
Marc Desio – Ausure Insurance Brokers Gippsland
Mike Dunn Insurer of the Year
Presented by Scott McCarthy, this award honours the insurer partner that has demonstrated exceptional service and outstanding support to Ausure and its Authorised Representatives.
For the second consecutive year, the award was presented to Allianz Insurance, a testament to the strength of the relationship and the consistent service provided to the network. Faaizah Banu, National Relationship Manager, accepted the award on behalf of Allianz and her team.
Congratulations to our finalists:
Chubb Insurance
Zurich Insurance
Underwriting Agency of the Year
Mick O’Bree returned to the stage to present the Underwriting Agency of the Year Award, recognising an underwriting partner that has delivered exceptional service and support to Ausure’s Authorised Representatives.
The 2026 winner was Market Lane Insurance Group, accepted by Matthew Porteous, Director and Group Head of Partnerships and Engagement.
Congratulations to our finalists:
NTI Limited
SafetyCulture Care
Jim McIlveen Award of Excellence
For the final award of the evening, Troy Brown, Managing Director of Ausure was welcomed to the stage to present the Jim Mcllveen Award of Excellence.
The Jim McIlveen Award of Excellence is named after and honours insurance veteran Jim Mcilveen, the man who inspired Ausure Founder Wayne Brown to “Have a Go”. Jim’s influence was instrumental in shaping Ausure as a business grounded in family values and long term relationships.
The 2026 winner was Ausure Burleigh Heads, accepted by Belinda and Rafael Sosa.
Congratulations to our finalists:
Tebbutt Broking House
John Webb & Associates
As the evening concluded, it was evident that the Awards Gala Dinner was more than a celebration of achievement. It was a reflection of the dedication, passion and partnership that have defined Ausure for 30 years, and that will continue to guide the network into its next chapter.
Afterparty at CIRQ Rooftop Bar
Following the Awards Gala Dinner, attendees continued the celebrations at Cirq Rooftop Bar. With phenomenal views over Sydney’s city skyline, the rooftop setting provided the perfect way to end the evening, allowing guests to relax, network, and celebrate with the Award winners.
Conference Day Two
Day Two kicked off with guest speaker Dr Jodie Lowinger, presented by QBE Qnect. A Harvard trained clinical psychologist, bestselling author and TEDx speaker, Jodie delivered a powerful session on mental health, resilience and high performance, equipping delegates with practical tools to thrive in today’s environment.
The remaining agenda included:
- Chubb – Danny Byrnes, National Relationship Manager, Ausure & Chubb: Celebrating 30 Years of Partnership
- Attvest – Nick Cunningham, Chief Commercial Officer: How Personal Branding Can Be Used to Drive New Business
- DUAL – Eleanor Bunting and Georgina Dalley: Claims That Escalate: What Triggers Client Frustration and How to Prevent It Faster
- Elantis – Paul Schofield: Built for Growth – Expanding Your Portfolio in a Softening Market
- Steadfast – Kasun Jayaratne: Current Industry Dynamics and Emerging Trends
- Market Lane – Matthew Porteous: Communication Do’s and Don’ts
- IQumulate – Chris Caruso and Melinda Salemi: Building Long Lasting Partnerships Through a Culture of Trust
- CGU – Karen Spear: Customer Experience – The Growth Advantage Hiding in Plain Sight
- SafetyCulture Care – Dan Cummins: Preventing the Preventable: How Technology Deepens Risk Conversations
Sunset Cocktail Cruise
To conclude the celebrations, attendees boarded Starship Sydney for the Sunset Cocktail Cruise, sponsored by Allianz and Zurich. Cruising through Darling Harbour, the evening provided spectacular views and the perfect setting to reflect on an exceptional Conference.
Between DJ sets, Conference MC, John Mills, alongside Faaizah Banu on behalf of Allianz and Mel Starfield on behalf of Zurich, thanked attendees for their ongoing support and partnership.
As Ausure marks 30 years of success, the 2026 Conference was a meaningful reflection on the relationships, integrity, and shared commitment that have shaped our network since Wayne founded it in 1996. We are excited for the next chapter – continuing to work alongside our Authorised Representatives and supporting their journey as they grow, evolve, and thrive.
Thank you to our valued sponsors, without you this event would not be possible and we are grateful for your support.
