What insurance do I need as a support worker working in Australia?

As a support worker in Australia, it's crucial to have appropriate insurance coverage to protect yourself and your clients.  Here are five key types of insurance you should consider:

1. Professional Indemnity Insurance

• Purpose: Protects against claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in the provision of your professional services.
• Coverage: Legal costs, settlements, and damages awarded against you if a client claims your services caused them harm.

2. Public Liability Insurance

• Purpose: Covers claims of bodily injury or property damage caused to a third party (e.g., clients, visitors) during the course of your work.
• Coverage: Legal expenses, medical costs, and compensation if you are found liable for an accident or injury.

3. Personal Accident Insurance

• Purpose: Provides financial support if you suffer an injury or accident that prevents you from working.
• Coverage: Lump sum payments or weekly benefits to cover lost income, medical expenses, and rehabilitation costs.

4. Income Protection Insurance

• Purpose: Replaces a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury.
• Coverage: Monthly payments to help cover living expenses while you recover.

5. Workers Compensation Insurance

• Purpose: Mandatory insurance that provides benefits to workers who suffer a work-related injury or illness.
• Coverage: Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and income support during recovery.
• Note: If you are self-employed or a sole trader, you may need to arrange your own workers compensation insurance.

Ensuring you have appropriate insurance coverage, means you can protect yourself and your clients, ensuring that you can provide support services with confidence and peace of mind.

If you're a support worker or looking to get into the industry, Westralian Insurance can assist you with the insurance cover you need.  Give our friendly team a call today, on (08) 9302 1388, or visit www.westralianinsurance.com.au

What are some general policy exclusions in insurance?

Insurance policies typically include exclusions that outline specific situations, events, or conditions not covered by the policy.  While the specific exclusions can vary depending on the type of insurance and the insurer, here are some common general exclusions found in many insurance policies:

Government Actions
Losses due to government actions, such as confiscation, nationalisation, or demolition orders.

Pollution and Contamination
Damages or losses caused by pollution or contamination, unless specifically covered by the policy.

Acts of God
Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes, unless specifically included in the policy (e.g., earthquake or flood insurance).

Contractual Liability
Liability assumed under any contract or agreement, unless such liability would have existed in the absence of the contract.

Professional Services
Claims arising from professional services provided by the insured, unless the policy specifically includes professional liability coverage.

It's essential to read the policy thoroughly and understand its exclusions to avoid surprises when filing a claim.  Discussing with a qualified Insurance Broker can also provide clarity on specific exclusions and potential coverage options.

Westralian Insurance is here to help.  Give our knowledgeable, friendly team a call today, on (08) 9302 1388, or visit www.westralianinsurance.com.au

What are some general policy exclusions in insurance?

Insurance policies typically include exclusions that outline specific situations, events, or conditions not covered by the policy.  While the specific exclusions can vary depending on the type of insurance and the insurer, here are some common general exclusions found in many insurance policies.

1. Intentional Acts
Damages or losses resulting from intentional, fraudulent, or criminal acts committed by the insured or their associates.

2. War and Terrorism 
Losses caused by war, military actions, insurrections, or terrorism (although some policies may offer optional terrorism coverage).

3. Nuclear and Radioactive Contamination
Damages caused by nuclear reactions, radiation, or radioactive contamination.

4. Wear and Tear
Normal wear and tear, gradual deterioration, or maintenance issues that occur over time.

5. Pre-Existing Conditions
Conditions, damages, or losses that existed before the policy was in effect.

If you've got insurance questions, Westralian Insurance can help.  Give our friendly, professional team a call today on (08) 9302 1388, or visit www.westralianinsurance.com.au