Allianz, CGU and QBE have been named as finalists for the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) general insurer of the year award.

Zurich Australia – winner for the past two years – has failed to make the cut.

The three finalists attracted most votes in NIBA’s annual Broker Market Survey, completed by more than 1100 brokers.

NIBA Professional Development Executive Linda Evans says the vote was “extremely close”.

The award was introduced in 1998, and QBE won it for 11 consecutive years from 2002-12.

CGU and Allianz have never won the top prize.

The award will be announced next Monday at the NIBA Convention in Melbourne.