How to Register for WorkCover Insurance in Australia: The Ultimate Guide for Business Owners

If you hire employees in Australia — even casually — you need WorkCover insurance. It’s not a “nice to have.” It’s a legal requirement that protects both your team and your business if someone gets hurt at work.

Most founders don’t register early enough because they assume WorkCover only applies to big companies or high-risk industries. It doesn’t. One employee = obligation. And skipping or delaying registration can result in major fines, uncovered claims, and a mess you absolutely do not want to deal with.

This guide shows you exactly how to register for WorkCover, what it costs, and how to stay compliant — without drowning in bureaucracy.

You must register once you hire any workers. Delays = fines + uncovered liability.

What Is WorkCover Insurance and Why It Matters

WorkCover (also known as workers’ compensation insurance) protects employees if they’re injured or become unwell due to their work. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, rehab, and return-to-work support.

WorkCover covers:

• Full-time employees

• Part-time employees

• Casuals and apprentices

• Some contractors (depending on how they work and who controls the work)

WorkCover is mandatory in every state.But — and here's the catch — each state runs its own scheme.

WorkCover bodies by state:

• VIC: WorkSafe Victoria

• NSW: icare NSW

• QLD: WorkCover Queensland

• SA: ReturnToWorkSA

• WA, TAS, NT, ACT: State-specific WorkCover agencies

If you employ workers, you must register with your state’s authority. Delays = fines + uncovered liability.

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Why WorkCover Matters for Business Owners

WorkCover isn’t “extra paperwork.” It’s essential protection.

WorkCover matters because it:

Keeps you compliant

You’re legally required to hold WorkCover when you employ anyone — even one casual.

Protects your people

If someone gets injured, care is covered, and they’re supported while recovering.

Protects your business

Without cover, you personally can be liable for medical bills, legal costs, and wage replacement.

Reduces risk

One serious injury can financially break an uninsured business.

Mentor Tip:

Your team is one of your biggest assets. Protect them — and yourself — like it.

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What You Need Before You Register

To register for WorkCover, have this ready:

• ABN and business trading name

• Business address and industry classification

• Number of employees

• Estimated annual wages (include super, allowances, bonuses)

• Basic payroll details (your system or accountant can help)

Mentor Tip:

When estimating wages, include everything employees receive — not just their base salary. Underestimating can create problems later.

How to Register for WorkCover Insurance in Australia:

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Identify Your State Authority

WorkCover is registered based on where your employees physically work.

• NSW → icare.nsw.gov.au

• VIC → worksafe.vic.gov.au

• QLD → worksafe.qld.gov.au

• SA → rtwsa.com

• WA / TAS / NT / ACT → Check your state’s WorkCover agency

Outcome: 

You know which agency regulates your WorkCover obligations.

Step 2: Calculate Your Total Wages

WorkCover premiums are based on the total wages you expect to pay over the year.

Include:

• Ordinary wages

• Superannuation

• Commissions

• Bonuses

• Allowances

• Fringe benefits (if applicable)

Your payroll system or accountant can help you estimate this accurately.

Outcome: 

You have the annual wage figure required for your WorkCover application.

Step 3: Complete the Online Registration Form

Each state offers a simple online form.

You’ll provide:

• ABN and trading name

• Business location

• Industry type (for risk rating)

• Number of workers

• Estimated annual wages

Most states give you confirmation immediately after you submit.

Outcome: 

Your business is now officially registered for WorkCover.

Step 4: Receive Your Certificate of Currency

Once registered, you will receive:

• Your WorkCover policy number

• A certificate of currency (proof of insurance)

Keep this document handy — some clients, contractors, and consultants will ask for it.

Outcome: 

You have proof your business is covered and compliant.

Step 5: Update WorkCover When Things Change

You must update your WorkCover insurer when:

• You hire new staff

• Your total payroll changes

• Your business activities shift (e.g., higher/lower risk tasks)

Premiums are usually paid annually, with some states offering monthly instalments.

Outcome: 

Your policy stays up to date and audit-safe.

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Cost of Registering for WorkCover Insurance

State	Typical Premium Rate	Cost Example
VIC	1.27% of wages	$1,270 on $100K wages
NSW	Varies by insurer/industry	Starts $1,000+
QLD	1.2% avg (industry based)	$1,200 on $100K wages
SA	Industry based (2% avg)	$2,000 on $100K wages

Cost-Saving Tip: Keep your claims history clean to qualify for lower premiums in future years.

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Common Mistakes Business Owners Make

Waiting until someone’s hired to register 

You must register from day one of employing staff — including casuals.

Underestimating wages 

Leads to incorrect premiums or audit issues later.

Not realising contractors might count 

Some contractors are deemed employees under WorkCover law.

Missing annual reporting deadlines 

Can result in penalties or loss of coverage.

No record keeping of incidents or injuries 

Every incident must be logged — even minor ones.

A happy and healthy employee is one of the most valuable assets.

What to Do Right Now

✅ Book a consult at [Noize.com.au] if you need help with financial strategies and planning out the growth of your business.

✅ Get the full StartUp Deck at [TheStartupDeck.com] — over 250 cards for setting up your business.

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✅ Register for Workcover Insurance and download our free Employee StartUp Kit via (ProDesk.com) 

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The Bottom Line

WorkCover is one of the simplest — and most important — compliance steps for employers in Australia. Set it up before you hire, update it when things change, and treat it like part of your core risk management.

You’re protecting your team, your business, and yourself.Register early, stay compliant, and build with confidence.

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FAQs

Do I need WorkCover if I only hire casuals? 

Yes. Even casual and part-time employees are legally covered under WorkCover laws.

What if my staff are contractors? 

If they work under your direction or use your tools, they may be considered employees for insurance purposes.

Is WorkCover insurance the same as public liability? 

No. WorkCover covers your employees. Public liability covers third parties like customers or suppliers.

How much does WorkCover cost? 

It’s usually 1–2% of your total annual wages, depending on your industry and claims history.

Can I register before I hire someone?

 Yes — and you should. Register as soon as you plan to employ.