Suncorp Group has unveiled plans to strengthen its footprint in North Queensland, including the creation of 120 new jobs through a regional office hub in Townsville.
The new office, located at 22 Walker Street, will serve dual purposes, including the ability to convert into a disaster management centre during extreme weather events.
The insurer highlighted this function as a critical part of its localised disaster response strategy.
“The hub will be located at 22 Walker Street and can quickly transform into our own pop-up disaster management centre after major extreme weather events. This allows us to mobilise our workforce locally and deploy them on the ground to support impacted North Queensland communities,” said Suncorp CEO Steve Johnston.
The Townsville expansion forms part of Suncorp’s $25 million jobs and investment package in Queensland, developed in alignment with the sale of Suncorp Bank to ANZ.
As part of its regional strategy, Suncorp is also advancing its disaster response capabilities through the use of technology.
The company has integrated data from weather analytics, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence into a centralised system designed to improve recovery efforts after severe weather events.
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC), launched under Suncorp’s investment plan, combines advanced technology with operational expertise to accelerate rebuilding efforts and enhance resilience.
Key features include aerometric imaging, partnerships with satellite providers, and secure Australian data storage through a collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS).
The announcement coincides with a new sponsorship agreement with the North Queensland Cowboys rugby league team.
Johnston said the deal aligns with the company’s commitment to deepening its investment in Queensland.
“North Queensland is vibrant and growing, and we could think of no better partner than the Cowboys to help us support this important region,” he said at the Hutchinson Builders Centre in Townsville, the Cowboys’ home base.
The partnership makes Suncorp a key supporter of the Cowboys’ NRL and NRLW teams, as well as community initiatives like the Cowboys Game Participation Program, which promotes rugby league among schools and youth in rural and regional areas.
Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel welcomed the collaboration, noting shared objectives between the organisations.
“We are looking forward to a successful partnership, working with a proudly Queensland brand to make a difference both on and off the field,” he said.
