Life Insurance Excellence Awards Finalists Named

The Australasian Life Underwriting and Claims Association has announced the finalists for its ninth annual Life Insurance Excellence Awards.

Entries were submitted from across the sector, with nominations reviewed by a panel comprising a broad cross-section of industry leaders.

The awards recognise the work of professionals in life insurance underwriting, claims and rehabilitation, highlighting contributions to the industry and acknowledging high standards of performance among peers.

Winners will be revealed at the ALUCA Awards Night Wednesday 10 June 2026 at a gala event Sydney hosted by MC Marney McQueen.

The finalists are:

Leadership Finalists 

1. Amber Brockie – Acenda
2. Christine Bajada – Acenda
3. Ramy Bassily – Acenda

Professional Finalists 

1. Yvette Pheiffer – HLRA
2. Indi Bhan – Acenda
3. Shabina Hastings – Resolution Life  

Rising Star Finalists 

1. Hansel Wintara – Acenda
2. Khristian Walker – AIA
3. Michael Shepherd – Allianz

David Mico Industry Finalists 

1. Darren Leonard – Acenda
2. June Khaw – HLRA
3. Glenn Baird – TAL 

Underwriting Team Finalists

1. Acenda Underwriting Team 
2. Neos Underwriting Team

Claims Team Finalists 

1. Zurich Claims Concierge team
2. HLRA leadership team
3. Acenda – Grief Support team Insurance

Customer Service Team Finalists

1. Workcom
2. Acenda – Project Phoenix – UW team
3. Zurich – Raising the bar for Customer Recovery 

Innovation Team Finalists

1. HLRA – Thrivership Team
2. Zurich Cancer Survivorship program
3. Zurich Home Loan Protection 

Partnership Impact Team Finalists 

1. Acenda – Project Phoenix UW Team
2. HLRA Selsus team
3. ExPhys and TAL team 

Best Technology Team Finalists

1. Acenda – Project Phoenix UW Team
2. Acenda – Vivo Companion
3. Zurich Home Loan Protection