Commencing his career in the insurance sector with Shortland Insurance in 1989, it’s safe to say Andrew Ball understands insurance like the back of his hand. Joining the business his father Stewart Ball founded in 1977, Andrew worked alongside both parents and his sister for more than two decades before acquiring full ownership of the company in June 2011. Continuing the family business tradition, Andrew is now Managing Director alongside his wife Marisa, who, in addition to being a Director, is also the company’s Financial Controller.

Shortland Insurance Brokers is a shareholding member of the Steadfast Group Limited. This partnership ensures the company delivers a unique combination of integrity and traditional family values backed by the strength and support of Australia’s largest insurance broking network. The company handles the complete end-to-end insurance and risk management needs of the full spectrum of business types from sole operators to multinational corporations located throughout Australia.

As Managing Director, Andrew is responsible for overseeing all insurance programs established and maintained by the team as well as the ongoing growth of the business and professional development of each team member. He also maintains a hands-on client management role with a number of clients, many who have been with him since his early years in the industry, including some now into the second generation. Andrew’s primary areas of specialty are the transport, warehousing, manufacturing and property sectors.

Combining outstanding knowledge and experience with loyalty, generosity and an unwavering commitment to customer service, Andrew is known for his open door policy and willingness to go the extra mile to exceed both client and staff expectations.

Donna began her insurance career with Shortland Insurance in 1990 and is one of the longest serving members of the team. Highly regarded by her colleagues and clients alike, Donna has maintained a number of ongoing client relationships since her early days with the company. She has contributed greatly to Shortland Insurance’s internal office procedures. Specialising in the insurance needs of those operating in the transport sector/trucking industry, Donna also tailors insurance packages to suit the specific needs of small business operators, residential and commercial strata properties and commercial property owners. Renowned for her high level of attention to detail, her professionalism and integrity combined with genuine warmth, Donna has a way of making all clients feel immediately at ease and confident in her ability to look after their insurance needs.

Marisa is our financial controller which includes remitting our clients’ premiums to insurers, reconciling our financial transactions and paying salaries.

Robert Hay brought more than 20 year’s insurance industry experience to the table when he joined Shortland Insurance Brokers in 2020. His background is in Insurance Broking for a vast range of clients in many industries. Fulfilling the key role of Claims Manager, Robert assists all Shortland Insurance clients through the claims process, from lodgement through to final payout.

Claim matters handled by Robert vary from relatively straightforward small business claims through to detailed and often highly complex claims made by national and multinational corporations. The expeditious and methodical way Robert handles each claim perfectly complements the careful planning undertaken by Shortland Insurance Client Managers when establishing the Insurance Program at the outset.

While the very nature of incidents that result in an insurance claim can be both unpredictable and stressful, Robert works hard to minimise the impact on a client’s business operations. An outstanding communicator with strong negotiation skills, Robert is renowned for his ability to handle disputes and liaise in a professional and appropriate manner with all parties concerned, including lawyers, loss assessor, clients & AFCA if necessary.

Sharon Solomon joined Shortland Insurance in 2013 following more than three decades in an administrative capacity with the one company. As receptionist, Sharon is the first point of call for clients and visitors who phone or call in to the office. Her professional yet warm, friendly manner ensures all callers and visitors feel welcome and assured that their request will be handled promptly and efficiently.

In addition to her reception duties, Sharon handles all compulsory third party (CTP) Insurance needs, maintains the company database and assists other members of the team as required.