- It's mandatory insurance paid by your employer.
- It covers your medical bills, lost wages, and recovery costs if you get hurt or sick because of your job.
- It protects the employer from being directly sued for these costs.
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Who Manages Workers' Comp in My State?
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| State / Territory |
Who is the Main Manager/Insurer? |
How to get insured? |
| New South Wales (NSW) |
iCare (Government Insurer) |
Apply for a policy directly through iCare or one of their contracted Claims Service Providers. |
| Victoria (VIC) |
WorkSafe Victoria (Government Insurer) |
Register with WorkSafe and choose an authorised insurer to manage your policy. |
| Queensland (QLD) |
WorkCover Queensland (Government Insurer) |
Apply for a policy directly through WorkCover Queensland (the exclusive provider). |
| South Australia (SA) |
ReturnToWorkSA (Government Insurer) |
Register for cover with ReturnToWorkSA online or over the phone. |
| Western Australia (WA) |
Private Insurance Companies |
Contact a licensed insurance broker or an approved insurer to get a quote and policy. (Regulated by WorkCover WA) |
| Tasmania (TAS) |
Private Insurance Companies |
Contact a licensed insurance broker or an approved insurer to get a quote and policy. (Regulated by WorkSafe Tasmania) |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) |
Private Insurance Companies |
Contact a licensed insurance broker or an approved insurer to get a quote and policy. (Regulated by WorkSafe ACT) |
| Northern Territory (NT) |
Private Insurance Companies |
Contact a licensed insurance broker or an approved insurer to get a quote and policy. (Regulated by NT WorkSafe) |
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Do I still need Worker’s Compensation Insurance if my business is very small?
- You still need it. If you have even one employee, you must have Workers' Compensation insurance.
- Contractors may also need to be covered, depending on your state's specific rules.
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What are some common Workers' Comp mistakes?
- Thinking contractors or casuals are automatically excluded. Most are still covered if they meet the “worker” definition in your state.
- Believing your business is too small or “low-risk” to need it. Even one employee usually triggers the requirement)
- Forgetting to update wages declarations. Under-declaring can lead to massive premiums adjustments and penalties.
- Assuming Public Liability Insurance covers injured employees. It doesn’t because that’s for customers or the public.
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When to Get a Broker Involved
State rules differ significantly and premiums depend on industry, claims history and accurate wage reporting. An insurance broker can make sure you’re with the right insurer and not over- or under-insured.
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Have a Quick Question?
Planning to check your Workers’ Compensation cover? Do you want to understand your state’s rules? Speak with Tank Insurance today. Tank’s team of experts can help you compare options for your business
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