Gallagher has acquired Insurance Risk Solutions in Darwin, saying the purchase will boost its existing presence in the NT and expertise including rural and pastoral insights.

Insurance Risk Solutions, led by Brett Hagan and Dwight Shepherd, has been in business for more than 25 years serving its NT clients. The Darwin brokerage commenced trading yesterday under the Gallagher brand.

“This acquisition will be a win for clients, with Gallagher providing new levels of access to industry expertise, claims advocacy, placement capabilities and global markets,” Gallagher Australia and Asia CEO Sarah Lyons said.

“The team from Insurance Risk Solutions brings experience in rural, pastoral and horticultural industries along with specialist expertise in transport insurance.

“Gallagher has an established specialism in this area and we are looking forward to showcasing the confidence we can offer clients.”

Ms Lyons says with this latest acquisition Gallagher’s expanded Darwin team is “ideally” positioned to service all major industry sectors in the NT.

The US-headquartered broking giant has grown its presence in Australia partly through acquisitions. Just last month it acquired Thompson Insurance in Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast, its second in the region after buying Ausure Coast & Country last year.

“Gallagher has a strong track-record of growth in Australia. I’m pleased to say lots of conversations with owners of insurance brokerages have become terrific new merger partnerships,” Ms Lyons said.

“They are choosing to become part of the Gallagher growth story, inspired by ethics, opportunity, entrepreneurialism and the ability to bring greater capabilities and service to clients.”