NIBA / Special Feature
Encouraging equal opportunities
Promoting the industry as an attractive – and stable – sector to work in to younger people is essential, and there are plenty of good stories to tell. NIBA’s research shows that 23% of brokers’ highest education level is Year 12 or below, indicating a significant opportunity for young people who want to enter the workforce, rather than continue to study. Francis says, “There are so many people in very senior positions that initially came straight from school and have worked their way up in the industry, and we need to talk more about them, and use those stories for young people to be inspired by. “Across the sector, there’s such a vast array of skills that can be used in so many different areas, and again it’s something that needs to be talked about more. If you're into numbers, you can find a role as an actuary. If you’re a people person you can be in new business and distribution. If you’re technical and analytical you can be a specialist broker or underwriter. We've got roles that suit everyone, and there’s plenty of opportunities to work flexibly, too. Much like rugby union there's a role for everyone – I think we can do a better job of articulating and promoting that.”
profession, and that is strengthening both capability and perspective across the industry.” Francis believes while the figures are promising, there’s still room for improvement. “I think we’re pretty inclusive as an industry, but there’s still a way to go – we need more female leaders, but it’s starting to change and hopefully that’s coming because a more diverse workforce helps everyone.” Shanks agrees, saying inclusion is ultimately reflected not just in who enters the profession, but who thrives as an insurance professional. “There is great progress, and I believe the profession is well placed to build on that momentum. The remaining questions are about progression, influence and experience. Are women moving into senior leadership and ownership roles at the same rate? Are workplace cultures genuinely supportive across different life stages? And are we widening the conversation beyond gender to include
That flexibility is a contributing factor to other encouraging facts about the Australian broking sector. Almost 30% of people work in part time roles, while female representation is strong at 47%, too. “The strong representation of women in broking is encouraging, and it reflects some meaningful progress in how the profession has evolved,” says Shanks. “There is a greater recognition of the breadth of skills required to succeed – not just technical expertise, but communication, empathy, relationship management and commercial judgment. Many firms have also become more deliberate about flexibility, career development and inclusive workplace practices, which has made broking more accessible and sustainable as a long- term career. “Importantly, there is a clearer sense that broking offers variety, responsibility and progression, which is resonating with a broader talent pool. More women are choosing to enter and stay in the
broader diversity of background, experience and perspective?”
42 / INSURANCE ADVISER JUNE/JULY 2026
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