Clients and brokers often ask about workers’ compensation in Queensland. As a government-run scheme, it differs from other states. Accident Insurance is compulsory for employees, while optional Workplace Personal Injury Insurance covers those not eligible under Accident Insurance. There is no threshold for coverage, and businesses cannot self-insure or pay claim costs directly in Queensland.
Each state and territory in Australia has its own scheme for workers’ compensation insurance, and each state government regulates the workers’ compensation scheme in that state. In Western Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and the ACT, insurers privately underwrite the scheme. In NSW, Victoria and South Australia, insurers operate as scheme agents on behalf of the government authority.
Accident Insurance
They must have an accident insurance policy; this policy, as opposed to workers’ compensation policies in underwritten states, does not cover working directors of a company, trustees of trusts, or partners in a partnership.
WorkCover’s accident insurance policy insures businesses against all statutory and damages claim costs in the event of a work-related injury to their workers.
Workplace Personal Injury Insurance
Eligible persons may include contractors, self?employed individuals, company directors, partners, or trustees who receive remuneration for work or services.
All people deemed eligible can insure themselves by taking out this type of policy regardless of age or health.
Trust as an employing entity
Trusts are not recognised by WorkCover Queensland as employing entities. If workers are paid by a trust, the trustee’s (i.e. a company, partnership or sole trader) information will be required as they will be the policyholder.
Need Help?
Contact ABILITY GROUP for specialist advice and services.