Owner / Director - Gardian Insurance
Luke Phillips – A Legacy of Leadership in Insurance Broking
With over two decades of experience in the insurance industry, Luke Phillips is a seasoned professional who has built his career on providing expert, client-focused insurance services. Since 2004, Luke has served as the Managing Director of Gardian Insurance, a firm he established to offer tailored insurance solutions to businesses and individuals in Mackay and beyond. His expertise in commercial and corporate insurance has positioned him as a trusted advisor to businesses across various sectors, from small enterprises to companies with annual revenues of up to ÂŁ80 million.
Luke’s career began with a clear vision: to offer comprehensive, personalised insurance services that exceed client expectations. Over the years, Luke has earned a reputation for being approachable and accessible—qualities highly valued by his clients. Unlike the impersonal service found at larger national firms, Luke’s clients enjoy being able to pick up the phone and have direct, meaningful conversations with him and his team. His hands-on approach ensures that clients receive not only the best insurance coverage but also strategic advice to mitigate risks and protect their assets.
The Foundation of Gardian Insurance: Local Roots, Global Reach
In founding Gardian Insurance, Luke aimed to create a firm deeply connected to the Mackay community while offering the resources and expertise of a larger, more global operation. By partnering with Steadfast Group, Australasia’s largest insurance broker network, Luke and his team deliver a broad range of insurance solutions, backed by extensive resources, industry expertise, and access to a wide network of insurers and underwriters. This affiliation enables Gardian Insurance to leverage Steadfast’s purchasing power to secure competitive rates and comprehensive coverage for clients, distinguishing the firm within the regional insurance landscape.
At its core, Gardian Insurance is committed to client-centred service. The firm’s foundation is built on strong relationships, and Luke is proud to lead a team that takes the time to understand each client’s unique needs, challenges, and goals. Whether protecting a business’s physical assets or ensuring financial protection against liabilities, Luke and his team tailor their advice and coverage recommendations to guarantee that clients are adequately safeguarded.
Specialised Expertise in High-Risk Industries
Luke’s knowledge spans many sectors, with a particular focus on high-risk industries such as mining, construction, and civil contracting. Mackay is a hub for these industries, and Gardian Insurance has positioned itself as a leader in providing industry-specific insurance solutions that meet the rigorous demands of these sectors.
The mining industry, for example, presents a unique set of risks, from operational hazards to environmental liabilities. Luke has honed his expertise in this area over many years, developing a deep understanding of the nuances involved in insuring mining operations. Gardian Insurance offers tailored coverage for public liability, workers’ compensation, machinery breakdown, environmental risks, and more, ensuring that businesses in these sectors can operate confidently, knowing their risks are well-managed.
Similarly, Luke has worked extensively with clients in construction and engineering, helping them navigate the complexities of project-specific risks, contractor liabilities, and equipment coverage. Whether securing coverage for a large infrastructure project or ensuring a contractor’s fleet is protected, Luke’s team works closely with each client to identify and mitigate potential risks before they become costly issues.
Comprehensive Insurance Solutions for Every Need
Beyond high-risk industries, Gardian Insurance offers a full range of insurance products that cater to both businesses and individuals. Luke believes that insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why his firm offers a wide range of products designed to cover everything from personal assets to complex commercial risks.
• Business Insurance: Gardian Insurance provides tailored business insurance solutions that protect companies against a wide array of risks, from property damage and theft to liability claims and business interruption. Luke and his team specialise in working with businesses in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and manufacturing, ensuring they have the right coverage to protect their assets and revenue streams.
• Professional Indemnity and Management Liability: For businesses providing professional services, Gardian Insurance offers professional indemnity and management liability coverage, protecting companies and their executives against claims of negligence, mismanagement, and other liabilities that could result in costly legal battles.
• Personal Asset Insurance: On the personal side, Gardian Insurance provides coverage for homes, vehicles, boats, and other personal assets. Luke understands that for many people, their home and personal property represent some of their most valuable investments, which is why he offers tailored coverage that provides peace of mind in the event of damage or loss.
• Cyber Risk Solutions: In today’s digital world, businesses face an ever-increasing risk of cyberattacks. Gardian Insurance offers cyber risk solutions to protect companies against data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other cyber threats. Luke’s team stays up to date on the latest cybersecurity trends, ensuring clients are protected against emerging risks.
• Marine Risks and Engineering Insurance: Gardian Insurance also specialises in marine and engineering insurance, offering comprehensive coverage for vessels, equipment, and infrastructure. Whether it’s a fishing fleet or a large construction project, Luke’s team ensures that every aspect of the operation is insured.
A Dedicated Team Committed to Client Success
While Luke is at the helm of Gardian Insurance, he credits the firm’s success to his dedicated team of portfolio managers and account executives. Each member of the Gardian Insurance team brings unique expertise, ensuring that clients receive the highest level of service and support. Luke has cultivated a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, encouraging his team to stay on top of the latest trends in the insurance industry and maintain strong relationships with both underwriters and clients.
Luke’s leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that a company’s success is directly tied to the success of its people. As a result, he invests heavily in the professional development of his team, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to provide clients with innovative insurance solutions that meet their evolving needs.
Client-Centred Approach: Building Long-Term Relationships
What truly sets Luke and Gardian Insurance apart is their client-centred approach. Luke believes that strong client relationships are built on trust, transparency, and a deep understanding of each client’s unique needs. Whether a client is facing a complex insurance claim or simply has questions about their policy, Luke and his team are always available to provide guidance and support.
Gardian Insurance’s clients range from small local businesses to large corporations, but regardless of size, each client receives the same level of personalised service. Luke’s personal understanding of his clients’ businesses enables him to offer tailored advice that goes beyond standard insurance coverage. His aim is not only to protect his clients’ assets but also to help them navigate the complexities of risk management so they can focus on growing their business.
A 100% Locally Owned and Operated Business
As the only 100% locally owned and operated insurance broking firm in the region, Gardian Insurance takes pride in its connection to the Mackay community. Luke and his team are passionate about giving back to the community that has supported them over the years. Gardian Insurance regularly sponsors local events, supports charitable organisations, and is actively involved in initiatives that benefit the local economy.
For Luke, being part of the Mackay community is not just about doing business—it’s about making a positive impact. Whether it’s helping a local business recover after a disaster or providing financial support to a local cause, Gardian Insurance is committed to being a force for good in the community.
Looking to the Future
As Gardian Insurance continues to grow, Luke is focused on ensuring the firm remains at the forefront of the industry. This means staying ahead of emerging trends, investing in cutting-edge technology, and continuing to build strong relationships with clients and underwriters alike.
Luke’s vision for Gardian Insurance is one of continued expansion, both in terms of the services offered and geographical reach. While the firm remains proudly based in Mackay, Luke sees opportunities for growth across Australia, particularly in the sectors of mining, construction, and cyber risk.
With a proven track record of success, a dedicated team, and a commitment to excellence, Luke Phillips and Gardian Insurance are well-positioned to continue their legacy of providing exceptional insurance services for years to come.
This version maintains British spelling and ensures a formal tone suitable for UK audiences.
Luke Phillips Managing Director | Gardian Insurance 73 Wood Street, Mackay 0438 421 053 luke@gardian.com.au www.gardian.com.au
