Global insurer Zurich Financial Services Australia says insurance brokers remain pivotal figures in guarding society against climate change from a “risk management point of view”.

Speaking on the launch of Zurich’s second annual climate change survey questionnaire, National Intermediary Distribution Manager Nick Cook said the insurance broking sector is a crucial source of climate change information.

“Brokers, in particular, need to be aware of the risk and we, in the industry, need to develop ways to impart our knowledge to clients.”

Last year’s climate change survey found one in four brokers have started adding cover or adjusting clients’ policies to help them cope with climate change risks, but most feel their knowledge of climate change is limited.

“After the 2009 survey that saw more than 10% of brokers from all over Australia expressing their opinion, we are keen to see if brokers’ views have changed or consolidated, and whether their awareness of climate change and related risks has increased or decreased,” Mr Cook said.

Brokers wishing to participate in the survey can visit the Zurich website. The results will be announced at the National Insurance Brokers Association Convention in October.