The Australia unit of UK general insurance specialist Aviva has expanded into the Tasmanian market with the establishment of a new office in Hobart.

Establishment of a physical presence in Tasmania is an exciting move for us, as it supports our continued growth in Australia and underscores our long-term commitment to servicing Tasmanian financial planners, said Scott Daubeny, state manager for Victoria and Tasmania.

The establishment of Aviva’s first office in Tasmania has coincided with the launch of Riskfirst in Launceston and Hobart. Aviva’s Riskfirst is the industry’s first online underwriting platform, which provides signature-free applications.

It’s great to see a company such as Aviva establishing a permanent presence here – while some financial services companies have closed their doors on smaller markets, Aviva recognizes the great potential and progress occurring in Tasmania, said Bronwyn Hill, a local businesswoman who has been selected to lead the Tasmanian operation.