The Regional Insurance Brokers Association (RIBA) says its relocation to Melbourne is already paying dividends. Since making the move from Ballarat in October last year, the Victorian cluster group has grown to include two metropolitan members.

CEO Bill Friend is now confident 2007 will be the start of a new phase in the association’s history, in which he hopes to grow RIBA’s membership from 18 to 30 independent brokers.

Professional indemnity specialists Fenton Green and building industry brokerage Build Safe are the two newest members. Mr Friend says the organisation is focused on attracting more like them. While they may not be as “regional” as the founding members, he says the new businesses are similar in size and value their independence.

“RIBA offers an excellent value proposition to its members,” Mr Friend said. “It really is outstanding value for money with access to free compliance and staff training.”

The relocation has also assisted the cluster group to build closer relationships with its underwriting partners. “Being based in Melbourne means we are only 10 to 15 minutes’ walk away from the main insurers that our members place business with.”