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What’s the biggest challenge you think the profession needs to be ready for in the near future? One of the biggest challenges I’m seeing is the reduction in insurer capacity, particularly on more complex risks, which often requires sourcing support from multiple insurers. This adds another layer of complexity and makes it even more important for brokers to take a proactive approach to the market. Ensuring underwriters have a clear and comprehensive understanding of the risk is critical — including undertaking independent surveys where appropriate and making sure any risk recommendations are addressed prior to renewal. Being well-prepared allows us to present the risk in the best possible light and achieve more favourable outcomes for our clients. The industry is also experiencing a shift in skills and experience as many long-standing professionals retire. It is essential we invest in the next generation through mentoring, training opportunities and clear career pathways to ensure the future strength of the profession. What does being a trusted adviser mean to you beyond the transaction, and how does that expertise show up when things get difficult for a client? Being a trusted adviser goes well beyond placing a policy or completing a transaction. For me, it’s about building genuine relationships and truly understanding a client’s business so I can support them through all stages — not just at renewal. It means being accessible, proactive and honest — especially when conversations are difficult, as we experienced during the COVID pandemic. When things go wrong, whether it’s a claim or a challenging renewal, that’s when our value truly shows. Advocating for the client is at the top of my list of qualities, and I hold that standard firmly. Ultimately, being a trusted adviser is about consistency, adding value and being someone clients can rely on when it matters most. What does becoming a finalist of the 2026 Broker of the Year mean to you? Being named a finalist is incredibly rewarding and something I am genuinely proud of. It reflects the relationships I have built with my clients, the trust they place in me and the consistency I bring to my role every day. For me, it’s not about individual recognition — it represents the collective support of colleagues, mentors and the wider network that has helped shape my career over the years. This industry is built on relationships, and this acknowledgement reinforces the value of putting clients first and always
“It’s not about individual recognition — it represents the collective support of colleagues, mentors and the wider network that has helped shape my career.” striving to deliver meaningful outcomes. I’m also grateful to organisations like NIBA and CGU who continue to recognise and celebrate excellence across the profession.
be worried about AI taking over jobs. We are in a period where new roles will be created and existing ones will be supported. With the right education, guidance and support, AI tools will generate faster and more accurate outcomes — allowing the insurance community to spend more quality time with clients, key partners and stakeholders, and freeing up space to be more creative and shift focus away from mundane tasks. Firms that don’t get on board will be left behind. What does being a trusted adviser mean to you beyond the transaction, and how does that expertise show up when things get difficult for a client? We are responsible for taking ownership and accountability — building a trusted partnership with clients that goes well beyond the once-a-year renewal. A wise person in the industry once told me: “You must invest in your clients, love your clients, marry your clients.” Figuratively speaking, a relationship only flourishes when you water it. That means going above and beyond the transaction even when challenges get in the way. Take a deep breath, stay organised and push on. For me, being responsive and reliable is what builds trust. When things go wrong, the client won’t hesitate to call — because the leg-work has been done 365 days a year, not just at renewal. What does becoming a finalist of the 2026 Broker of the Year mean to you? I am incredibly honoured to be named a finalist for SA/NT. It is a privilege to be recognised alongside so many outstanding professionals who continue to raise the bar for our industry. This means more to me than recognition alone — it represents growth, resilience and a genuine passion for the industry and the people within it. Giving back to the broking community is a priority for me, given my long-term involvement with NIBA. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities, challenges and relationships that have shaped my journey, including some outstanding mentors who have had a significant impact on my career both in Australia and the UK. I am very proud to represent South Australia. “A wise person in the industry once told me: ‘You must invest in your clients, love your clients, marry your clients.’ A relationship only flourishes when you water it.”
Daniela Zaccone, Knightcorp Insurance Brokers SA/NT State Finalist
How did you get started in the insurance broking profession?
When I left school I wanted to be a hairdresser — and quickly worked out that I prefer to have my hair done rather than do it for someone else. After that, I went looking for an office-based role while I figured out my next step, and ended up securing a receptionist position at a local family-owned insurance broking firm. I didn’t even know what insurance was at that point. As I entered my second year at the firm, I was given the opportunity to shadow one of the senior brokers. I didn’t do much beyond listen and take notes — but meeting by meeting, I observed how you can make a real impact by helping clients protect their assets and livelihoods. I wanted to be part of that. That’s where the seed was planted. What’s the biggest challenge you think the profession needs to be ready for in the near future? The obvious answer is AI — and it’s the right one. The digital world is evolving rapidly, and some firms are already exploring and implementing basic digital tools to create efficiency. The broking community shouldn’t
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