Keeping it local

At Elders Insurance, we pride ourselves on keeping it local.

We have agencies dotted all over the country, which means you'll be getting farm insurance advice from an agent who is familiar with your farm and the unique risks in your area.

For example, one risk that is unique to Albany (a port city in Western Australia) is road and other damage caused by kangaroos.

According to Craig Anning and Jason Loveridge, who are Elders Insurance agents in Albany, a reduction in culling in recent years has resulted in a growing kangaroo population - and a growing problem for the region.

Back in the day, explains Mr Anning, "you'd have areas where you could guarantee there'd be kangaroos, whereas now they could be anywhere".

Including on the roads, he says, which has led to an increase in requests for commercial car insurance policies.

Because Mr Anning and Mr Loveridge live in Albany and are aware of this local problem, they are also well-equipped to offer clients advice on how to protect themselves against it.

Another of the other benefits that comes from dealing with a local agent is that you can have face-to-face discussions about any insurance issues you may be having.

Mr Anning says that the majority of people prefer to speak in person rather than over the phone, "particularly if they've got an issue with a claim".

''If it's not progressing well," he explains, "they've got access to our office and to us". This can make the claims process much easier and more efficient, which is something both Mr Anning and Mr Loveridge pride themselves in.

Finally, Mr Loveridge states that a vital part of the local agent model is "getting on farms and seeing what we are insuring".

Because they can evaluate your property and assets with their own eyes, Albany's Elders Insurance agents have a significant advantage when it comes to providing you with the cover that best suits your needs.