Former High Court judge Michael Kirby is the keynote speaker at this year’s Australian Insurance Law Association (AILA) national conference.

He will discuss the Insurance Contracts Act on its 30th anniversary, which he helped draft, reflecting on whether its purpose has been achieved and its future.

Steadfast CEO Robert Kelly will discuss developments in the broker market, Robert Bain QC will moderate a panel on class actions and DLA Piper partner David Leggatt will discuss the response of insurance policies to such lawsuits.

“Class actions are becoming more prevalent, especially those that are [stock market]-based,” AILA President David Lee told insuranceNEWS.com.au. “It’s well-known that law firms are spending an enormous amount of money and time on them. They are very costly beasts.”

Arch Underwriting Regional Director Adam Matteson will talk on the growth of Lloyd’s syndicates in the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr Lee says it is hoped the conference, on Hamilton Island from September 17-19, will attract about 300 delegates.

Early-bird registrations for the conference close on July 15. They cost $990 for members and $1290 for non-members. Click here for more information.