The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) has cancelled its convention in October due to the coronavirus but plans to continue with its annual awards program.

Regional awards for Broker of the Year and Young Broker of the Year are normally presented at capital city events before the national winners are announced at the convention.

CEO Dallas Booth said last week that plans for the timing and presentation of the awards program for this year are being finalised.

“Clearly we are not going to be able to make announcements at our major events in the middle of the year for our state winners, or at the convention for the national winners,” he told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“Nevertheless, we think it is critically important to celebrate the good things that happen in broking and to recognise excellence.”

The annual convention, which was planned for Melbourne on October 26-27 this year, typically attracts hundreds of delegates. It’s the latest industry event to be halted as Australian governments warn of an extended period of social distancing measure.

Mr Booth says it is difficult to predict what the situation will be in October and what restrictions will remain in place, and after careful consideration the decision was made to cancel the event.