Public Liability Insurance In WA

How does Public Liability work in WA? 

Is your business booming in Broome? No matter where you are in the western state, as a business owner, you have a duty of care to ensure your business activities don’t cause harm to third parties, including customers, contractors, suppliers and members of the general public. If someone is injured (or dies) or their property is damaged as a result of your business acting negligently, you may have to provide them with compensation. That’s where Public Liability insurance comes in. 

Public Liability insurance is designed to protect you and your business from third party injury and property damage claims arising from negligent actions. The Civil Liability Act 2002 (WA) governs how liability is assessed, damages are awarded, and insurance coverage operates in cases of personal injury and property damage. 

How will Public Liability Insurance protect my business? 

Public Liability insurance protects you and your business in a number of ways. While the specifics tend to depend on your business type and policy, you can rest easy knowing your insurance may provide cover for: 

• Compensation for property damage, including loss of property 
• Compensation for death or injury if a third party is injured or dies as a result of your business operations 
• Compensation for damage caused to goods not owned by you which are in your care, custody or control 
• Legal costs awarded to a third party following a successful public liability claim; and 
• Defence costs associated with defending a claim against your business 

Some Public Liability policies also cover product liability, so be sure to pick a policy tailored to your business needs. 

Helpful tip

As a small business owner, you’ve got plenty to think about. But have you ever considered how a third–party claim could impact your business? It’s up to you to take reasonable steps to protect the safety of everyone you interact with, as well as their property. And part of that often involves taking out Public Liability insurance.

Jane Mason

Head of Product, Channels & Risk at BizCover

What isn’t covered by Public Liability Insurance? 

Although Public Liability insurance can help protect your business from negligence claims it does not cover liability in all cases. Instances where Public Liability insurance will not cover your business include: 

• Damage to your property 
• Asbestos claims 
• Intentional misconduct 
• Worker’s Compensation claims or employee injury 
• Known claims and circumstances 
• Professional negligence claims 

This isn’t an exhaustive list of exclusions that apply to Public Liability insurance. You should check your policy’s wording to ensure you know what’s included as part of your cover along with any exclusions. 

Who needs Public Liability Insurance in WA? 

Across Western Australia, some businesses are legally required to hold Public Liability insurance before they can commence work onsite. In other cases, Public Liability cover is a requirement of their industry or licensing body.  

Generally, Public Liability insurance can be beneficial to businesses that interact with the public or have visitors to their business premises. Here are just some of the businesses that should consider protecting themselves with public liability insurance: 

• Building, mining and construction companies 
• Arts, entertainment and recreational services
• Manufacturing companies 
• Retail and wholesale trade businesses 
• Accommodation and food service businesses. 

How much does Public Liability Insurance cost in WA? 

Whether you’re a plumber in Perth or operating whale shark tours from Exmouth, chances are the price of your Public Liability premium will differ. The cost of Public Liability insurance depends on a range of factors, including the amount of coverage you need, the size of your business and your business type. When it comes to choosing a suitable level of protection, it’s important to make sure you get adequate coverage, or you could risk leaving your business underinsured.  

What should I consider for my Public Liability Insurance? 

Choosing a Public Liability policy often comes down to several key factors, including the cost, any exclusions and the coverage limit. Be sure to do your research and read the policy wording to make sure you pick an appropriate policy for your business needs. 

Where can I find and compare Public Liability policies? 

Are you on the hunt for Public Liability insurance? We’ve partnered with BizCover, who definitely know their stuff when it comes to small business insurance, to bring you a range of business insurance policies. Compare business insurance policies online to find a Public Liability offering that’s suitable for your business.