Major underwriting agency Dexta Corporation has become Australia’s largest independent insurance agency with premium income of almost $200 million a year after acquiring four businesses from Aon.

The four specialist underwriting agencies are Agricola Underwriting Management, Macquarie Underwriting, Pacific Underwriting and SLE Worldwide Australia.

Each business will continue to trade under its existing brand and maintain focus on their specific market segments.

Dexta CEO Bob Lee says the acquisition is consistent with the group’s strategy of growth and diversification by expanding its specialist product range.

“Our business model is one of having specialist niche underwriting agencies operating independently, but leveraging from the advantages of being part of a much larger, diverse group,” Mr Lee said.

Former Aon Risk Services Deputy Chairman David Farrell joins Dexta as Chairman on Monday.