Zurich has joined a string of insurance companies and brokers including QBE, Suncorp, Allianz, IAG, Willis Towers Watson, Marsh and Youi in backing same-sex marriage.

Last week Zurich Life and Investments CEO Tim Bailey and General Insurance CEO Raj Nanra co-signed an open letter supporting the move.

“We are proud to affirm our support for marriage equality,” Mr Bailey said.

“Our vision is to build a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone feels safe, respected and appreciated for who they are, irrespective of their sexuality, gender, disability status, cultural background, religious beliefs or age.”

Mr Nanra says there is a strong economic and business case for allowing same-sex couples to marry.

“But when it comes down to it, we believe extending marriage equality to everyone in our community is simply the right thing to do,” he said. “It’s aligned to our ambitions on diversity and inclusion and what Zurich stands for as an organisation.”