May 06, 2013
Mortgage Choice is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Allianz, one of Australia's largest insurers. The partnership is the next step in Mortgage Choice's transition towards becoming a broader diversified financial services business.
Speaking about the alliance, General Manager of Product and Distribution, Andrew Russell, said that part of Mortgage Choice's strategic goal is to broaden its customer proposition by providing a range of financial services and wealth solutions and that satisfying customers' insurance needs was in line with that aim.
“Our customers say that finding competitive insurance cover that meets their needs is important. We are pleased to now offer them market leading insurance options through our partnership with Allianz, one of Australia's most respected insurers, and winner of the 2012 Large General Insurance Company of the Year,” said Mr Russell.
From today, Mortgage Choice will refer customers to Allianz for three types of insurance: home building and contents, motor vehicle and landlord insurance. Mr Russell said that customers have the option of accessing Allianz insurance products through their channel of choice.
“Brokers can refer their customers directly by calling Allianz on a dedicated number and asking Allianz to contact their client, or alternatively, by giving the client the dedicated Mortgage Choice number at Allianz,” Mr Russell said.
“Our brokers will not provide advice; all questions on the products will be referred back to Allianz.”
Mr Russell continued by saying that in addition to the broker referrals, Mortgage Choice customers would also be given the option of going online to get a quote, via the Mortgage Choice website.
“This is our first, but certainly not our last step into providing services online. While our 390-strong franchise network will remain our key distribution channel, we want the option to engage our customers using the channel that best meets their needs, and the online channel is growing fast. It now represents a significant point of sale for financial services products, including insurance,” said Mr Russell.
“If our aim is to provide a complete service to all our current and future customers, online definitely plays a key role in achieving that.”
Commenting on the partnership with Mortgage Choice, Allianz's Michael Winter, General Manager Financial Institutions said, “We are pleased to partner with Mortgage Choice to provide a general insurance solution for their customers. Insurance is an important consideration when taking out a home loan. It is in both the broker's and borrower's best interest to put in place an appropriate insurance solution and ensure protection is in place.”
Mr Russell concluded by saying that the partnership with Allianz was a significant step for Mortgage Choice's broking arm and he noted the clear synergy between the partnership and Mortgage Choice's entry into financial planning, launching officially to customers in the new financial year.
“At Mortgage Choice, our overarching aim has always been to provide the best possible service for our customers, whether that be in mortgage broking, financial planning and now insurance,” Mr Russell said.
“But watch this space, there's more to come!”
For more information call 13 77 62. Alternatively, visit Facebook.com/MortgageChoice or Twitter.com/MortgageChoice.
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Belinda Williamson
Mortgage Choice Corporate Affairs
(02) 8907 0472 / 0407 416 124
Belinda.Williamson@mortgagechoice.com.au
Alicia Eu
BlueChip Communication
(02) 9018 8603 / 0412 550 004
Alicia@bluechipcommunication.com.au
