Applications are now open for this year’s Australian Insurance Law Association (AILA) Ron Shorter Memorial Award for public speaking.

The contest, in honour of former Colin Biggers & Paisley practice manager Mr Shorter, aims to equip young insurance professionals with speaking skills.

Applicants should submit details of an intended topic, and a 250-word summary of why they would benefit from public speaking training.

A group of 20 successful applicants will attend a Polaris Coaching workshop, and three finalists will be selected for further training.

The finalists will then present for 15 minutes to 80-100 industry peers.

The winner, judged by a panel of insurance professionals, will receive the Ron Shorter trophy, plus flights, accommodation and registration for this year’s AILA National Conference in Melbourne.

Applications close on February 15.