NIBA Announces Maree Solvyns as the 2026 Claims Broker of the Year
Media Release
The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) announced the winner of the Sedgwick-partnered 2026 NIBA Claims Broker of the Year award at the NIBA Convention at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast on Monday, 19 October.
The 2026 NIBA Claims Broker of the Year was awarded to Maree Solvyns from Gallagher. NIBA thanks the judging panel for this award: Colin McEnery, Adam Squire, Lynette Walsh, and Heidi Schmit.
NIBA CEO Richard Klipin congratulated Maree and the finalists.
"My congratulations to Maree and to this year's finalists, Jack and Robert. Each of them has guided clients through the claims process with skill, professionalism and care," Richard said.
The award recognises the contributions of NIBA members working in claims. As outlined in the Insurance Brokers Code of Practice, brokers play an integral role, working with insurers and clients in claims handling and management.
According to NIBA's client research report, Complexity to Clarity: The Broker Advantage, 95% of clients view brokers as critical to claims resolution, and 98% report their claims have been successfully resolved.
Claims is where the broking promise is realised. Effective claims management requires expertise, persistence and advocacy, so that clients are supported through stressful times, receive fair outcomes and can focus on getting back on their feet.
Richard also thanked Sedgwick for its continued partnership of the award.
"Thank you to our award partner Sedgwick. Now in its fourth year, this award continues to recognise brokers who make a real difference in their clients' lives through their claims expertise," Richard said.
Simon Kay, CEO, Sedgwick Australia, said: "We're proud to continue our partnership with NIBA on an award that recognises the impact brokers have in the claims space."
"Maree combines strong technical capability with a commitment to claims advocacy and achieving the best outcome for her clients. She is dedicated to education and mentoring, passing her knowledge on to others, and her contribution extends beyond her own portfolio to the profession more broadly," Simon added.
The role of an insurance broker is to be a trusted partner, helping Australian families, communities and businesses manage risk and thrive. Through its awards program, NIBA recognises brokers who continue to lift standards of professionalism to ensure broking is future-ready.
2026 NIBA Claims Broker of the Year
Winner: Maree Solvyns, Gallagher
Finalists: Jack O'Mahony, Lockton; Robert Krleski, Marsh