Businesses with workers compensation insurance must declare the actual wages paid during their policy period. This declaration is essential for calculating your Adjusted Premium, which ensures you pay the correct amount and contribute fairly to the scheme.
ABILITY GROUP’s Declaring Wages Guide & Support is designed to help businesses navigate this process with confidence. Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a large workforce, understanding wage declarations is key to staying compliant and managing costs effectively.
Why Wage Declarations Matter
At the end of each workers compensation policy period, businesses must submit an Actual Wage Declaration. This figure is compared to the estimated wages provided at the start of the policy. Depending on whether the actual wages are higher or lower than forecasted, your premium will be adjusted accordingly.
Key reasons to declare wages accurately:
- Ensures fair premium calculation
- Avoids penalties or overpayments
- Supports scheme integrity and compliance
- Helps manage cash flow and budgeting
What Counts as Wages?
While each workers compensation scheme may interpret wages differently, some payments are typically exempt from wage declarations. These may include:
- Reimbursements for work-related expenses
- Certain allowances not tied to hours worked
- Redundancy payments or termination entitlements
ABILITY GROUP provides detailed guidance to help you determine what should and shouldn’t be included in your declaration.
How ABILITY GROUP Supports You
Our team of specialists offers tailored support to ensure your wage declarations are accurate and timely. We help you:
- Understand what constitutes “wages” under your policy
- Prepare and submit your Actual Wage Declaration
- Avoid common mistakes that lead to premium adjustments
- Stay compliant with the Work Health & Safety Act 2011
We also provide strategic advice to help you manage stakeholder expectations and maintain transparency across your organisation.
Get Started Today
If you’re unsure how to implement wage declaration processes or WHS management systems, contact ABILITY GROUP for expert support. Our Declaring Wages Guide & Support is here to make compliance easier and more efficient for your business.
Further Information
NSW – icare Wages Definition Manual
Victoria – Remuneration inclusions & exclusions
QLD – WorkCover Queensland Wages Definition Manual
ACT – worksafe ACT wages & earnings Guide
SA – What is remuneration
WA – Declaration of Actual Remuneration/Wages