Headquarters:
Level 14 / 12 Creek St, Brisbane, Qld 4000
Year founded:
2001
Number of employees:
60
Phone:
1800 096 829
Email:
info@hsua.com.au
Website:
hsua.com.au
LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/company/high-street-underwriting-agency
“We prioritise embracing cutting-edge technologies, creative problem solving and continuous improvement to enhance our premium funding solutions and provide exceptional value to our clients”
Blair Whittle
Chief Executive Officer
Hayley Campbell
Chief Operating Officer
Ben Allen
Liability and CPE Portfolio Manager
Leadership
Blair Whittle has been instrumental to High Street Underwriting Agency for over 14 years and has served as CEO since 2021. Renowned for his forward-thinking leadership, he has steered the agency through sustained growth while balancing the needs of brokers and capacity providers. His vision champions innovation and independence, leveraging advanced technology to expand product offerings and elevate broker support nationwide. Whittle’s commitment to agility and long-term partnerships ensures High Street remains responsive in a changing market. As a privately owned agency, the company thrives under Whittle’s guidance – helping clients navigate complexity with confidence, today and into the future.
Chief Executive Officer
Blair Whittle
Hayley Campbell, COO at High Street Underwriting Agency, believes that great operations begin with great people. Passionate about nurturing company culture, she ensures the family business spirit thrives as the agency grows. She leads a dynamic team focused on collaboration, accountability and operational excellence – streamlining processes, upholding compliance and prioritising relationships. Campbell’s leadership spans onboarding, HR compliance, claims coordination and portal innovation, always with an eye on smarter, more human ways to work. Looking ahead, she is driving automation and product expansion, committed to positioning HSUA as a leader in underwriting diversity while maintaining its people-first ethos.
Chief Operating Officer
Hayley Campbell
With 19 years of experience in the insurance industry, Ben Allen has developed a deep passion for the complexities of risk and the wide range of products designed to address it. What he values most about his role at HSUA is the opportunity to share his knowledge and experiences, helping to strengthen and grow the team’s expertise. Allen finds it incredibly rewarding to contribute to the development of the team while ensuring that clients receive the best solutions for their unique needs. Looking ahead, he’s excited about the future, with HSUA expanding its offerings and staying agile in an ever-changing market.
Liability and CPE Portfolio Manager
Ben Allen
BRETT BASTOW, IQUMULATE PREMIUM FUNDINGs
Leadership
Leadership
Katie Stranaghan
Financial Lines Portfolio Manager
With 12 years of experience in the insurance industry, Katie Stranaghan is captivated by its dynamic and ever-evolving nature. She’s always eager to stay ahead of emerging trends and new developments. At HSUA, she thrives on the variety her role offers, whether it’s collaborating with her team, working closely with brokers or addressing the unique needs of clients. Looking ahead, she’s excited about the launch of a new PI product early next year, with more innovative offerings in the pipeline. Stranaghan’s ultimate goal is to make HSUA the go-to, one-stop solution for both clients and brokers, providing comprehensive insurance coverage.
Financial Lines Portfolio Manager
Katie Stranaghan
Jade Francisco
Property Portfolio Manager
Jade Francisco, property portfolio manager at High Street Underwriting Agency, brings over a decade of industry experience and a passion for the ever-evolving world of insurance. Since joining High Street, he has contributed across liability, property and CPE and has managed the property portfolio since 2019. She thrives on the analytical challenges of property underwriting – balancing risk, interpreting market trends and crafting tailored solutions for clients. Francisco values the collaborative culture at HSUA and is dedicated to building strong, long-term relationships with brokers. Her commitment ensures clients receive expert guidance and responsive service in a dynamic insurance landscape.
Property Portfolio Manager
Jade Francisco
Stevens & Associates Lawyers is a leading and trusted employment law firm based in Sydney known for delivering high-quality legal expertise in the area of employment law and industrial relations across Australia, alongside a proven track record of effectively and swiftly resolving a variety of workplace law issues.
In the past year, the firm’s growth has been notable. It has:
• experienced a 213% growth in the number of client matters, increasing from 149 client matters in the 2022 financial year to 390 client matters in the 2023 financial year
• improved its online visibility, leading to over 50 online enquiries each month and a conversion rate of client leads of up to 40%
• significantly expanded the breadth and type of matters that it advises on day to day, which has increased the firm’s skillsets, diversity and resilience
• expanded its community outreach by collaborating with local Sydney venues for client seminars and continuing active participation in a Sydney small/family business group
Stevens & Associates Lawyers has adapted to digital trends by implementing an effective strategy with SEO and web design, resulting in a structural shift that has seen increased representation of employees where the firm previously mainly advised employers.
The firm’s recognition as a “Fast Firm” attests to its momentum in the employment law space.
“IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started”
Wayne Tower,
IQumulate Premium Funding
Kyla Wood
National Business Development Manager
Kane Bueler
Director of IT
Darren Watt
Commercial Director
Pam Chhabra
Manager – Residential Strata
With 37 years of experience in the insurance industry, Kyla Wood is dedicated to continuous learning and finds fulfilment in helping brokers place business every day. In her role at HSUA, she enjoys meeting diverse, talented individuals and values the opportunity to contribute to both product knowledge and the development of the High Street portal. Wood is passionate about sharing her expertise and supporting others’ growth. Looking ahead, she’s excited about the future, as HSUA enters a phase of expansion, broadening its product offerings to include solutions for more complex, harder-to-place risks while continuing to meet standard market needs.
National Business Development Manager
Kyla Wood
Kane Bueler is the technological backbone of Edge. With unparalleled in-depth expertise and knowledge, he ensures the company’s digital infrastructure remains robust, secure, and innovative. His team’s proactive approach to technology empowers Edge’s team to excel in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Bueler’s dedication to creating a seamless, efficient, and continually improving tech environment reflects the company’s commitment to employee empowerment without compromising security. His IT leadership is pivotal to organizational success, ensuring that Edge continues to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital age.
Director of IT
Kane Bueler
Darren Watt is the commercial director at Stuartholme School, bringing over 20 years of experience in auditing, accounting and business management within the education sector. Since joining in May 2022, he has overseen the school’s commercial operations, including financial strategy, procurement and business services. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Commerce, a Bachelor of Arts (General), a Graduate Certificate in Business, is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). As a key member of Stuartholme’s leadership team, Watt plays a vital role in supporting the school’s mission within the Sacred Heart network.
Commercial Director
Darren Watt
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Commercial Manager
Stephen McMillan
One culmination of these efforts has been the real-world, needs-based IQEdge solution. A one-stop online quoting tool designed for both the Australian and New Zealand markets, IQEdge delivers quotes in under 60 seconds. Plus, the solution offers quote comparison and quote versioning capabilities, enabling users to review vital historical and financial data in a single page view.
IQEdge can streamline and automate application processing, underwriting document verification and payment collection, cutting the need for manual labour and minimising processing errors. A digital “self-service” platform, IQEdge, reduces the need for customer and administrative support. Meanwhile, borrowers can access their accounts, make payments and manage their policies independently and through sales and support teams, which are always available for further assistance.
“We’ve created a quality platform that simplifies the quoting process yet amplifies the customer experience,” says Gordon. “It’s a real game changer.” IQumulate offers an online digital quoting tool to clients. The best-in-market solution enables IQumulate to tailor funding offerings to brokers that align with their prefered distribution channel.
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What does IQumulate have in mind for the future?
“IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started,” says Wayne Tower, CEO. “Through continuous engagement with our clients, partners, marketplace and industry, we will listen to the needs as they arise and position our business to be agile and respond to changes as they occur.
“Faster decision-making innovations such as AI-powered decision support systems can expedite the underwriting and approval process, leading to quicker responses to clients. This can improve client satisfaction and potentially attract more business, creating a competitive advantage with the potential to allow IQumulate to command premium pricing or capture a larger market share.
“As forward-thinkers with a digital and ‘do it better’ mindset, we collectively and proactively look to learn and improve on our customer experience for our clients, paving the way for successful business outcomes for our clients and our business in the coming years ahead.
“We’re excited for the future and look forward to what’s on the horizon.”
Adam Basaldella
Manager – Claims
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Commercial Manager
Stephen McMillan
Claire Watson
Product Manager
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
Claire Watson
Product Manager
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
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Spokesperson,
Salesian College Chadstone
xxxxxxxxx
Spokesperson,
Salesian College Chadstone
Ivan Verescuk
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director
Shaun O’Brien
Head of Underwriting
Emily Walker
Head of Strata and Development
Rex Oakman
Head of Operations and Risk
Sandy Newton
Head of Underwriting
Andrew Mitchell
Manager – NSW
Michael Prokopis
Manager – Southern Region
Pam Chhabra
Manager – Residential Strata
Jeffrey Valdivia
Manager – Commercial Strata
Adam Basaldella
Manager – Claims
High Street Underwriting Agency is an insurance company with soul, dedicated to helping Australian small businesses dream big and achieve their ambitions. For 25 years, it has provided Australian SMEs with the peace of mind they need to thrive, combining quality insurance products, innovative technology and a refreshingly human approach to service.
A proud family business, High Street is led by CEO Blair Whittle, son of founders Jan and Alan. With a national footprint and international backing, the agency partners closely with brokers to deliver tailored solutions designed specifically for Australian SMEs – always with a personal touch.
High Street’s strong relationships with broker partners have shaped a comprehensive product range that meets the diverse and evolving needs of the Australian market. Brokers enjoy unrivalled choice and confidence, whether seeking general liability, professional indemnity, property cover or specialist risk solutions.
The agency’s custom-built platform enables brokers to quote, process, complete and renew policies with ease, while a team of highly skilled, specialist underwriters stands ready to offer advice, review policies and help place even the most complex risks.
At its core, High Street Underwriting Agency exists to empower Australian small businesses and support brokers in serving their clients better – championing big dreams with expertise, partnership and heart.
IQumulate invests in education and people, which are vital to attracting new business and talent to the company.
“We have long tenures for several of our key staff, including some in leadership positions, and this sound working knowledge of our business, practices and industry provides great insights and a wealth of experience to offer our clients,” says Bastow. “Our new head of sales, Graeme Gordon, formerly manager for New Zealand, joins us in Australia to drive our sales strategy and lead our team to successful outcomes for our clients and our business. We look forward to great things ahead with Graeme as he continues to be active and present in the New Zealand market as well as building sound working relationships and new connections in Australia.”
Clients can also expect a lot from working with IQumulate.
“Through active engagement with our trusted broker network, IQumulate provides relevant information, education and training content,” says Graeme Gordon, head of sales. “Our clients can expect IQumulate to support their business in several ways, providing an understanding of what premium funding solutions are available and how IQumulate can spread the cost of insurance and help borrowers get the right level of insurance cover to free up their cash flow for other expenses or business growth opportunities. Premium funding is often considered a tool for those who simply cannot afford to pay their premiums in full. While this is certainly a significant driver for many, it is also successfully used by profitable companies who use premium funding to manage their cash flows more wisely or better manage their liquidity.”
Medals
Directors and officers
Financial lines
Product liability
Public liability
Diversity, equity and inclusion
Innovation
Reputation
Sustainable programs
Overall
Under the leadership of Principal Mark Ashmore and the College Board, Salesian College Chadstone fosters a positive, professional and growth-oriented environment. With a focus on continuous improvement, the college has achieved record academic results, rising ATAR scores, stronger attendance and national recognition in child safety, including the 2025 Victorian Protecting Children Award.
The college celebrated the outstanding achievement of Year 12 student Thomas Maguire-Nguyen, who was named Overall VCE Leader of the Year by the Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Nina Taylor MP. The college has also proudly led the way in innovation through its partnership with Uniform Group and designer Peter Morrissey to launch Australia’s first bespoke, designer-curated school uniform collection, coinciding with the opening of the new Year 7 and 8 Precinct campus in 2026.
Salesian College Chadstone’s extra-curricular program develops students’ talents and passions in team environments. Key activities include house sports, debating, peer mentoring, Associated Catholic Colleges (ACC) sports across 55 teams, instrumental music and public speaking.
The college collaborates with its partner Girls Schools Sacred Heart Girls College and Avila College for musical productions, leadership experiences and community events, providing the opportunity for cross-school teamwork and connection, reinforcing the college’s commitment to holistic development, leadership and community engagement.
Technology is another priority and underpins the college’s strategy of delivering a contemporary education. Over the last 12 months, the college has introduced a series of initiatives:
ICT Future Directions committee – exploring the use of technology for communication, data analysis and learning
Risk Wizard – risk management, incident tracking and compliance monitoring software
Employee Connect – HR and onboarding software
Alumnly – integrated cloud-based Alumni Networking and Management Platform for Alumni of Salesian College Chadstone
Vivi – whole school wireless mirroring system for efficient classroom displays
Intellischools – data platform for student results, attendance and security, aggregating student data for school improvement
IVR (Interactive Voice Response) – system for telephone enquiry management
Committed to diversity and inclusion, the college’s Learning Diversity team ensures the varied needs of students are met in an environment where every student can thrive.
Salesian College Chadstone is a place where academic excellence, personal growth and community spirit converge, preparing young men for an interconnected world while staying true to its Salesian values.
