Network Insurance Group has been launched as a Steadfast hub in Victoria after a series of acquisitions by broker GWS at the start of this year.

The expanded group, headquartered in Melbourne, has brought together six brokerages and plans further growth.

“There are some further acquisition opportunities we are working on,” Network Insurance Group MD Cameron Bott told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

The hub’s website shows it has so far brought together GWS Network Insurance Brokers, Gallivan Magee & Associates, Masterman Insurance Brokers, Cycle Cover and Dance Cover.

Mr Bott says IC Frith Victoria was also acquired recently. Specialist brands will be retained in some areas, such as in yachting cover provided by Masterman, while standardisation of back-office processes will lift operational efficiency.

“We are all trading as Network Insurance Group but there are some specialist areas that we are maintaining,” Mr Bott said.

About 50 people work at the hub’s new headquarters on St Kilda Road, which opened last month.

Acquiring company GWS is owned by Steadfast and Mr Bott.