How to use this checklist
As an independent support worker, securing appropriate insurance helps protect you, your participants and your business. Without suitable cover, you could face significant costs from claims or damages.
Read the types of cover below, compare policies and record applications, approvals and renewal dates in your own copy.
Public liability insurance
Public liability insurance can cover certain claims involving injury to a third party or damage to property arising from your work.
Illustrative scenario: A participant trips over equipment during a session. Whether a resulting claim is covered depends on the policy and circumstances.
Consider this cover when working in participants’ homes or public spaces. Ask about the activities included, limits, excess and exclusions.
Professional indemnity insurance
Professional indemnity can cover certain claims of negligence, errors or omissions in the professional services you provide.
Illustrative scenario: A participant alleges your service caused harm. Ask the insurer how the policy deals with relevant claims and legal defence costs.
Describe your services accurately so the insurer can assess the proposed cover.
Vehicle insurance
The original checklist refers to comprehensive car insurance. If you drive for work or transport participants, confirm that the proposed policy covers that use.
Illustrative scenario: An accident occurs while transporting a participant. Do not assume a personal policy covers business use simply because it is comprehensive.
Ask about the vehicle, activities, drivers and business travel you intend to undertake.
Research & compare providers
- Research reputable insurers or brokers with relevant business insurance experience.
- Request multiple quotes and compare both prices and cover.
- Prepare your ABN, business type, estimated income and services information.
- Choose appropriate cover after reviewing the terms.
- Review policies as your business evolves.
The client’s original resource lists BizCover, AAMI and NRMA as places to research. Check their current products and suitability directly; the list is not a guarantee of cover or a personalised recommendation.
Choosing the right policy
Compare the coverage, limits, exclusions, excess and total cost. Tailor the cover to your business, especially if you drive participants or undertake activities with particular risks.
Keep policy documents accessible and renew on time. Tell the insurer about relevant changes to your work.
Your checklist
- Describe the services and activities your business provides.
- Compare public liability options.
- Compare professional indemnity options.
- Confirm vehicle insurance for the planned use.
- Review policy terms and obtain confirmation of cover.
- Save documents and record renewal dates.
Use the original PDF to record the applied, approved and renewal status for each insurance type.