
Australia Public Liability Insurance is a type of insurance that protects businesses and individuals from financial losses due to accidents or injuries that occur on their premises or as a result of their operations.
In Australia, public liability insurance is a mandatory requirement for many businesses, especially those in high-risk industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
If you're a business owner, it's essential to understand the different types of public liability insurance policies available, including annual policies and incident-based policies.
Businesses can expect to pay a premium for public liability insurance, which can vary depending on factors such as the type of business, its size, and the level of risk involved.
What is Public Liability Insurance?
As a small business owner, you're already juggling a lot of responsibilities. You have a legal responsibility to take reasonable steps for the safety of your customers, suppliers, community, and their property.
Public Liability Insurance is designed to provide protection for you and your business in the event a customer, supplier, or a member of the public is injured or sustains property damage as a result of your negligent business activities.
This type of insurance also covers the legal costs associated with managing claims that are covered by the policy.
What Is Insurance?

Insurance is a type of protection that helps you cover financial losses due to unforeseen events. It can provide peace of mind and financial security.
Public liability insurance is designed to help protect businesses from legal claims made against them. This type of insurance can help cover accidents, death, or injuries, as well as loss or property damage that may arise from an incident connected to a business's activities.
A liability policy can extend to cover product liability, which helps protect a business from legal action due to faulty products. This means that if a customer is injured by a product, the business may be held liable and the insurance can help cover the costs.
Typical coverages under a liability policy include legal costs, compensation for loss or damage to property, and compensation for injury caused by a company. These costs can add up quickly, so having insurance can be a huge relief.
Here are some examples of what is typically covered under a liability policy:
- Legal costs in the defence or settlement of a claim;
- Compensation for loss or damage to property (not your own property);
- Compensation for injury caused by your company.
Here's the Lowdown

As a small business owner, you're likely juggling a million tasks at once, but it's essential to remember that you have a legal responsibility to take reasonable steps for the safety of your customers, suppliers, community, and their property.
Public Liability Insurance is designed to provide protection for you and your business in the event a customer, supplier, or a member of the public is injured or sustains property damage as a result of your negligent business activities.
Accidents can happen at any time, and if you're not prepared, it could mean disaster for your business. Public Liability Insurance can help mitigate the financial impact of such incidents.
The policy also provides assistance with the legal costs associated with managing claims that are covered by the policy, taking a huge weight off your shoulders.
Policy Details
In Australia, public liability insurance is a must-have for businesses and individuals who interact with the public. This type of insurance protects against third-party claims for property damage or personal injury.

The policy details of public liability insurance in Australia typically include a limit of liability, which is the maximum amount the insurer will pay out in the event of a claim. This limit can range from $5 million to $20 million or more, depending on the policy.
Businesses that operate in high-risk industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may require a higher limit of liability to adequately protect themselves against potential claims.
Protection
Public Liability insurance provides protection against financial loss and legal costs if someone makes a claim against your business due to an injury or property damage caused by your business activities.
If you're interacting with customers, suppliers, or members of the public regularly, you may need Public Liability insurance. This includes tradespeople, professionals, wholesalers, manufacturers, travel and tourism businesses, and office-based businesses.
Public Liability insurance covers claims from third parties for personal injury or property damage caused by your business activities. It's essential to discuss your policy with your broker to ensure you have the right cover for your business.
Public Liability insurance can help protect your business from costly claims, which can potentially be enough to send you out of business.
Here are some examples of where Public Liability insurance could assist:
- A player injures their knee after tripping on a pothole in the field during an AFL game and sues the club for failing to provide a duty of care.
- A club member falls when the bar stool they are sitting on collapses from underneath them and sues the club for negligence.
Public Liability insurance is a common type of business insurance that provides protection against claims from third parties. It's essential to have the right policy in place to avoid costly claims.
Business and Industry
Businesses across various industries in Australia should consider public liability insurance to protect themselves from potential claims.
In certain regions, professionals like plumbers and electricians must have this type of insurance.
Some businesses that may need public liability insurance include trades, professionals, wholesalers, manufacturers, travel and tourism companies, and office-based businesses.
These types of businesses often interact with third parties like customers, suppliers, and members of the public, making them susceptible to public liability claims.
Here are some examples of businesses that may need public liability insurance:
- Trades
- Professionals
- Wholesalers
- Manufacturers
- Travel and tourism
- Office based
Every Industry

Every industry has the potential for accidents and injuries, which is why public liability insurance is essential.
In Australia, accidents can happen anywhere, and public liability insurance can help protect your business from financial ruin.
If you're a tradesperson, such as a plumber or electrician, you may be required to have public liability insurance by law.
Public liability insurance covers financial loss to a third party, damage to a third party's property, and death or personal injury to a third party.
If you're a contractor, you may be covered by your client's public liability insurance, but it's still recommended that you obtain your own policy.
In the trades industry, a subcontractor's policy may be responsible for a claim if they are negligent and cause an injury.
Here are some examples of where liability cover could assist:
- During an AFL game, a player injures their knee after tripping on a pothole in the field.
- After the game, a club member who is having a drink at the club house, falls when the bar stool they are sitting on collapses from underneath them.
Public liability insurance is not just for large businesses; it's essential for all businesses that interact with the public, including office-based businesses.
Public liability insurance covers you in the event of injuries, damages, or loss caused in your workplace or services you provide.
Here are some examples of industries that may need public liability insurance:
- Trades
- Professionals
- Wholesalers
- Manufacturers
- Travel and tourism
- Office-based
Product Recalls
Product recalls can be a major headache for businesses, especially if they're not prepared.
Public liability insurance typically doesn't cover the costs of recalling, repairing, or replacing products that are defective or deficient.
You should be aware of the potential financial risks involved in product recalls, and factor them into your business planning.
The recall of products can lead to significant losses, including the cost of repairing or replacing products, as well as the potential loss of business due to a damaged reputation.
Businesses need to have a plan in place for handling product recalls, including procedures for notifying customers and resolving any issues that may arise.
Cost and Limitations
Public liability insurance costs can vary depending on several factors. Your business type and industry are taken into account by insurers when calculating your premium.
Insurers also consider the level of cover you need and your business's turnover. This helps them determine how much risk they're taking on.
Your prior claims history is another factor that can influence your premium. If you have a history of making claims, your premium may be higher.
Here are some factors that can affect your public liability insurance premium:
- Type of insurance
- Level of cover
- Business turnover
- Industry
- Prior claims history
Insurers may also factor in the number of claims they expect to receive in a year for a particular business type. This can impact your premium, so it's essential to choose the right level of cover for your business.
Does Have Limitations?
Public liability insurance is a crucial aspect of any business, but it's essential to understand its limitations.
Typical exclusions in public liability insurance policies include injuries to employees, damage to your own property, and asbestos-related liabilities. You're also not covered for faulty workmanship, professional advice, product recalls, fines and penalties, or contractual liability.
Some policies may also have excess amounts that you need to pay before the insurer covers losses and legal costs. For example, if you need to make a claim, your policy's excess sum is the amount of money you are liable to pay before the insurer becomes liable.

Here are some common exclusions to be aware of:
- Personal Injury to Your Workers - you and your employees are not covered by this insurance if you're injured inside your business property.
- Damage to your property - if your own property suffers damage, you're not covered.
Keep in mind that a public liability insurance policy will not cover all the costs. All policies will have excess, which is the amount you have to pay yourself.
Limit of
You can arrange a public liability insurance policy with a limit of liability of $5 million, $10 million, or $20 million to meet your requirements.
The limit of liability is the maximum amount your insurance policy will pay out in the event of a claim. If the cost of damages exceeds this amount, you'll be responsible for paying the difference.
Public liability insurance policies typically have exclusions, which are instances where the insurance won't cover you. Some common exclusions include:
- Personal injury to your workers
- Damage to your own property
Here are some examples of exclusions:
- Personal Injury to Your Workers: This is excluded because it's covered under separate Workers Compensation Insurance.
- Damage to your property: This is excluded because it's not the purpose of public liability insurance.
A public liability insurance policy will not cover all the costs. All policies will have an excess, which is the amount you have to pay yourself.

The limit of liability and excess amount can vary depending on the insurer and the specific policy you choose.
Here's a summary of the limits of liability:
Keep in mind that the limit of liability is just one aspect of public liability insurance. It's essential to consider other factors, such as the type of insurance, level of cover, business turnover, industry, and prior claims history, when choosing a policy.
Financial Cover
Accidentally injure a customer? Public liability insurance can help keep your business safe and protected against financial losses and incurred legal costs.
Public liability insurance typically includes financial cover for compensation costs, such as medical expenses and lost wages, as well as legal and defence costs associated with a covered claim.
In Australia, public liability insurance costs depend on various factors, including the policy cover, business turnover, industry, and prior claims history.
To keep your premium low, it's essential to discuss your policy needs with a broker who can leverage strong market relationships to obtain quotes from multiple insurers on your behalf.

Here's a breakdown of what's typically included in financial cover:
- Compensation costs for the personal injury suffered by a third party (e.g. a customer, supplier or member of the public)
- Compensation for damage to property owned by a third party due to your negligent business activities
- The legal and defence costs associated with a covered claim
- Compensation for damage of third-party goods not owned by you which are in your care, custody or control
Remember to review your policy carefully to ensure you understand what's covered and what's not. This will help you make informed decisions about your business's insurance needs.
Brokers and Assistance
Having a broker can be a game-changer when it comes to finding the right public liability insurance for your business. They'll navigate the complex world of insurance products and coverages to match you with the perfect policy.
A broker will advocate for you on price, making sure you get the best deal possible. This can save you money and time in the long run.
Choosing a broker is a smart move, especially if you're not familiar with insurance terminology. They'll take the time to understand your unique set of risks and find a policy that fits your needs.
Why Use a Broker?
Using a broker can be a game-changer when navigating the complex world of business insurance.

With so many products and coverages to choose from, it's easy to get lost in the jargon and sales pitches. An experienced broker will spot your unique set of risks and match you to the right choice.
They'll also advocate for you on price, ensuring you get the best deal possible.
Choosing a broker is a smart move, especially when dealing with complex insurance products like Professional Indemnity and Public Liability.
These products have terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions that can be tricky to understand - a broker can help you make sense of it all.
Don't make a decision without considering your objectives, financial situation, and needs, and be sure to read the Product Disclosure Statement carefully.
This will help you make an informed decision and avoid any potential pitfalls.
Why Choose Bizcover?
Choosing a broker can be a daunting task, but Bizcover stands out from the rest. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Bizcover has a proven track record of providing top-notch services.

Their team of experts has access to a vast network of insurance providers, allowing them to offer a wide range of policies that cater to diverse business needs. This extensive network is a result of their long-standing relationships with top insurance companies.
Bizcover's commitment to exceptional customer service is evident in their 24/7 support system, ensuring that clients receive help whenever they need it. This dedication to customer satisfaction sets them apart from the competition.
Their innovative approach to insurance solutions has earned them a reputation as a leader in the industry, with a client base that spans across various sectors, including small businesses and large corporations.
Examples and Scenarios
Public liability insurance can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. If you're a business owner, it's essential to understand how it can protect you and your business.
AFL game injuries, like a player tripping on a pothole in the field, can lead to costly lawsuits. This is where public liability insurance can assist, covering damages and compensation for injuries sustained by participants.

A club member who falls off a collapsing bar stool at the club house can also sue the club for negligence. Public liability insurance can help cover the costs of such incidents.
Business insurance packages can include public liability cover, but it's not automatically included. You may need to opt for it separately.
If your business manufactures or sells products, you may need to consider Product Liability insurance. This type of insurance protects against claims by third parties relating to property damage or personal injury caused by your products.
Here are some examples of situations where public liability insurance can be beneficial:
- A customer slips on a wet floor at your store and suffers an injury
- A supplier is injured while delivering goods to your business
- A member of the public is injured by a product you sell
In each of these scenarios, public liability insurance can help cover the costs of damages and compensation.
Professional Indemnity Cover
Professional indemnity cover is a must-have for businesses that provide professional advice or services. This type of cover protects you in case of mistakes or negligence in your advice or services, which can happen even after the work is completed.

Public liability and professional indemnity cover are both equally important, regardless of business size or location. Professional indemnity cover specifically focuses on the advice you provide, which can be a crucial aspect of your business.
If you're in a specialist or consulting capacity, you're more likely to need professional indemnity cover. This is because your advice can have a significant impact on your clients' businesses or lives.
Sources
- https://au.marsh.com/products-services/public-liability.html
- https://www.bizcover.com.au/public-liability-insurance/
- https://www.wmib.com.au/news/how-public-liability-and-professional-indemnity-insurances-are-often-confused/
- https://fdbeck.com.au/public-liability-insurance/
- https://www.prorisk.com.au/products/public--products-liability/
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