Ebix Australia has started rolling out its iClose placements platform across the Austbrokers network.

The platform will allow brokers to receive multiple quotes on business pack and industrial special risks policies from a single request.

It will also provide electronic help for brokers when they are preparing quote requests.

The panel of insurers using the platform is Allianz, CGU, QBE, Vero and Zurich.

Ebix Australia CEO Leon d’Apice says unlike other trading platforms, iClose is “designed to encourage product differentiation”.

“Participating insurers have been an integral part of the project, ensuring a solution that delivers optimum flexibility for all parties,” he said.

iClose will be fully integrated with Ebix broking systems used by the Austbrokers network and the insurers’ existing Sunrise Exchange platform and products.

QBE Insurance GM Australian Intermediaries Shaun Standfield – whose company has been critical of the size of the panel of insurers signed up for Steadfast’s Virtual Underwriter platform – says the introduction of an end-to-end system with iClose “will deliver significant efficiencies for all parties”.

“The limited panel size gives insurers and customers an opportunity for relationship continuity and long-term certainty,” he said.

“By utilising Ebix electronic platforms, other solutions such as Claimwrite and e.remittances will work for Austbrokers in a more streamlined fashion.”