Raising Funds, Celebrating Excellence, and Strengthening the Community
Canberra’s insurance industry came together in force on 1 May at the Rex Hotel for the 2026 ACT Insurance Ball, an evening that proved once again the power of connection, purpose, and collective impact. This year’s event didn’t just meet expectations, it elevated them with thanks to Platinum Sponsor Beneco and Gold Sponsor, QBE.
With a focus on both community contribution and industry recognition, the Ball successfully raised $36,608.99 in support of Running For Resilience — a grassroots organisation driving critical mental health initiatives across the region with exercise and community engagement. The funds will directly support local programs, events, and outreach efforts aimed at strengthening resilience and wellbeing within the community.
The night was backed by Insurance Industry Leaders.The scale and success of the evening
were made possible through the backing of major industry partners, led by Platinum Sponsor Beneco and Gold Sponsor QBE Insurance. Their support, alongside a strong network of Silver Sponsors (Moray & Agnew, Medilaw, MLCOA & Mcinnes Wilson Lawyers) and outstanding Bronze sponsors, enabled the event to deliver a premium experience while maintaining a clear focus on giving back.
Celebrating excellence across the industry
At the heart of the evening sat the ACT Insurance Awards, an independent recognition community-led program celebrating individuals and organisations driving excellence across the insurance sector.
From commercial deal-making to technical risk advisory, leadership, and community contribution, this year’s winners represented the very best of the profession.
Key award highlights included:
- 2026 Deal Maker of the Year was awarded to Zoe Higgins, Iqumulate Premium Funding
- 2026 Risk Mitigator of the Year was awarded to Joseph Everdell, Moray & Agnew Lawyers
- 2026 Excellence in Leadership was awarded to Nick Symons of Suncorp Group
- 2026 Best Support Person of the Year was awarded to Carly Sharp of Guardian Exercise Rehabilitation Services
- 2026 Excellence in Claims was awarded to Heather Arnold of Suncorp Group
- 2026 Provider of the Year was awarded to Anthony Armati of Prudence Rehabilttion
- 2026 Human Impact Award was awarded to Tim Cologon of EML
- 2026 Community Contribution & Engagement was awarded to Paul Eccles of PSC Insurance Brokers
- 2026 Insurance Leader of the Year was awarded to Craig Moorfoot of CGU
Each category reflected a broader truth: the strength of the insurance industry lies not just in transactions, but in people – in expertise, integrity, and the commitment to serve clients and communities at the highest level.
Beyond the awards and fundraising, the ACT Insurance Ball continues to cement its position as a flagship industry event – one that blends professional recognition with genuine community impact. The atmosphere on the night reflected a shift in the industry: one that values collaboration over competition, purpose alongside performance, and connection as a driver of long-term success.
With record engagement, strong fundraising outcomes, and growing recognition across the national insurance landscape, the ACT Insurance Ball is no longer just a calendar event — it’s a platform. A platform to celebrate excellence. A platform to give back and a platform to shape the future of the profession.
