Suncorp has been recognised as having one of the best internship programs in the country, according to a survey by the Australian Association of Graduate Employers.

It is the only general insurer to make the Top 40 Intern Programs list, coming in at 28th in the rankings. TAL, the sole representative from the life industry, placed 15th in the list that has advisory and restructuring firm McGrathNicol in top spot.

The survey in the February-March period is based on responses from more than 1700 interns who have taken part in a work placement program during the preceding 12 months.

Suncorp People Experience EGM Helen Davis says the internship placement is an important part of its recruitment program.

“We see it as a great opportunity to provide interns with first-hand experience,” she said. “They can also experience what it's like working at Suncorp and decide whether our culture is the right fit for them.”

The insurer has a paid, 12-week vacation program from November to February for students who want on-the-job experience.