ADVERTORIAL
By Jenny Bax, Chief Executive Officer Underwriting Agencies Council
Education and training are critical to the ongoing success of underwriting agencies. UAC delivered training and educational events to more than 2,500 participants, addressing topics like regulatory updates, climate change, compliance, recruitment, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and product-specific developments.
Education and training are critical to the ongoing success of underwriting agencies. UAC delivered training and educational events to more than 2,500 participants, addressing topics like regulatory updates, climate change, compliance, recruitment, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and product-specific developments.
In 2025, this focus on education will continue to deepen as we expand programs to meet the changing needs of our members. Central to our 2025 strategy is the Class of 26, UAC’s flagship education program designed to nurture the next generation of talent within the underwriting industry.
This initiative responds to one of the insurance sector’s most pressing challenges, attracting, developing, and retaining skilled young professionals.
Exposure: Participants will gain valuable insights into a variety of organisations within the industry and build connections with experienced professionals.
Experience: The program will deepen participants’ technical knowledge in key areas of underwriting and insurance.
Leadership and Mentorship: Future leaders will have the opportunity to develop essential business and leadership skills by working alongside industry veterans.
This aim of this initiative is to evolve into a diploma course. By combining technical expertise with broader leadership training, the Class of 26 will prepare participants to navigate the complexities of the industry’s future.
Beyond this program, UAC remains steadfast in its commitment to providing practical, high-value education for all members. In 2025, we’ll expand professional development offerings with new training modules and seminars tailored to emerging industry trends.
UAC’s strength lies in its ability to deliver genuine value to members – whether through education, advocacy, or networking. UAC continues to invest in the future of underwriting agencies. Education and training will remain central to equipping our members with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed and thrive
UAC member profile: Liz Peach, CEO — About Underwriting
Liz Peach has over 40 years of experience in broking and underwriting—eight of those years as the leader of her own agency, About Underwriting.
In 2016, About Underwriting was a small, independent agency initially staffed by an all-female team. At that time, Liz was the second woman to own and run an underwriting agency in Australia. Today, she remains just one of three. “Starting my own underwriting agency was the biggest gamble of my career, but it was also a deeply rewarding experience,” says Liz.
Liz recognised the importance of industry connections and joined the Underwriting Agencies Council (UAC). “We joined UAC eight years ago as the first association after starting the business,”
The association has played a key role in helping About Underwriting establish itself in states where it initially lacked local representation.
Liz sees the current landscape of the insurance industry as a significant opportunity for underwriting agencies. She believes UAC’s role in supporting agencies and facilitating connections with brokers is more important than ever.
For Liz, UAC membership is a practical choice that offers substantial benefits. “It’s an obvious association to join for networking—not only with brokers but also with peers and competitors,” she says.
UAC’s broad reach and cost-effective approach have made it integral to About Underwriting’s strategy.
Looking ahead, Liz remains focused on continuing to support her team and contribute to the insurance industry’s evolving culture and market dynamics. “The industry has changed a lot, and I’m proud to be part of that change,” she concludes.
