The Underwriting Agencies Council (UAC) will expand its professional development programs to New Zealand, to cater for its growing membership there.

The inaugural New Zealand professional development seminar will be in Auckland on August 7.

The session will be presented by DLA Piper partner Crossley Gates, who will discuss the implications of two important pieces of New Zealand legislation for underwriting agencies: the Sentencing Amendment Act 2014 and the Government’s proposed reforms to the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.

UAC GM William Legge says the proposed changes would be “far-reaching, creating new obligations and offences and increased penalties”.

The Sentencing Amendment Act 2014 allows sentences of reparation to top up Accident Compensation Corporation entitlements.

“Like the expos conducted around Australia, professional development events are another opportunity for underwriting agencies and brokers to connect at UAC-sponsored events,” Mr Legge said.

The seminar is at DLA Piper Tower in Queen Street from 8.30am-10am.

It is open to employees of UAC member agencies and brokers. It is free but registration is required.

To register, visit here.