Suncorp has donated a large insurance archive dating back to the 1830s to the State Library of Victoria.

The archive contains more 3000 items, including a £100 claim for the destruction of the Glenrowan Inn by the Victorian Police when they were trying to capture outlaw Ned Kelly.

Other items include possibly the oldest surviving policy certificate in Australia, issued in 1833 to George Cartwright of Hobart, two claims for the 1889 fires at Georges department store in Melbourne and the RACV Pool Agreement from 1933 between the Automobile Association of Victoria, Club Motor Insurance Agency and the Accident Underwriters Association of Victoria.

The retiring president of the library’s board, former Victorian premier John Cain, says the archive provides a detailed insight into the life and times of generations of Australians.

“Anyone who thinks insurance archives are boring doesn’t understand what a valuable historical resource they are,” he said.  

“This archive tells the story of Australia through a unique lens. It is the story of loss and renewal that is so much a part of life in Australia.”

Suncorp CEO Patrick Snowball says the archive demonstrates the important role insurance companies have played in protecting private and business property in Australia since the early 1800s.

“It is fascinating to look at these records and see how many Australians, in so many ways, have used insurance to protect their possessions, livelihoods and families,” he said.

“We are delighted to donate this important archive to the State Library of Victoria so that everyone can explore it for themselves.”

The donation has been made through the Federal Cultural Gifts Program, which allows a 100% tax deduction.