The Australasian Institute of Chartered Loss Adjusters (AICLA) held its Christmas function in Perth on December 2, attracting more than 130 members, guests and sponsors. 

Held at Marmion Angling & Aquatic Club, event organiser and AICLA Committee Member Nigel Lukies says it was the most successful lunch to date, with West Coast Eagles Head of Women’s Football Michelle Cowan addressing the crowd. 

"The feedback from all in attendance was extremely positive,” Divisional Chairman Darrell Stops told insuranceNEWS.com.au. "The parallels between her occupation and loss adjusting was not lost on the audience.” 

Women currently make up 19% of the workforce in loss adjusting, while 36% of the AICLA membership is over 56 years of age, presenting “a wonderful opportunity for younger people and particularly females to strive for greater roles in the industry,” Mr Stops said.  

"A challenge was thrown out for a female to become qualified and be the first female area chairperson in WA. Other divisions have had or currently have female area chairpersons but WA has not,” he said.