The biggest issue facing Australian insurance brokers is a skills shortage, according to a Zurich Australia survey. And on a lighter note, the survey revealed brokers would overwhelmingly prefer to sit next to former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins on a plane than Federal Treasurer Peter Costello.

The online survey used information supplied by readers of Zurich Australia’s financial adviser magazine Z2B. It found the biggest issue for broker respondents (31%) was the skills shortage and recruitment.

28% of brokers said finding new avenues of business growth was the big issue, and 20% nominated increased competition from direct insurers.

8% indicated succession planning, and the rest opted for the softening market, the spectre of the next hard market and compliance.

But going back to the weighty matter of who brokers would most like to sit next to on a plane: Ms Hawkins (25%) was followed by morning TV host David Koch and comedian Jerry Seinfeld, both on 16%.

Warren Buffett and Harry Kewell shared third place on 12% and President George W Bush came in at fourth on 7%. In fifth place, The Wiggles rated at 5% followed by sadly deposed Channel Nine presenter Jana Wendt on 4%. US author Dan Brown and Mr Costello came in seventh at 1%.

Zurich Australia conducted a similar survey for financial advisers through its publication Z2A. The planners also rated Ms Hawkins as their preferred airborne seat buddy.

The survey did not ask what brokers would like to chat about during the flight with the celebrity.