Guide
What changes the moment you hire someone
Hiring your first employee is a milestone and a legal trigger. Several insurance requirements kick in immediately, and some existing policies need updating.
The big one:
Workers’ Compensation becomes legally mandatory from Day 1 of employment.
The others:
Your exposure to employment-related claims increases significantly.

Insurance is boring until you need it. Then it's everything.
Common questions
From business owners at this stage
Can I wait until after they start to get Workers Comp?
No. Legally, you must have it in place before they start work. If they’re injured on Day 1 and you’re not covered, you’re personally liable for all costs plus massive fines.
What if I'm just hiring a contractor with an ABN?
True contractors with ABNs need their own insurance. But be careful—if they’re really an employee (you control hours, provide tools, direct their work), you might be liable even with an ABN. When in doubt, treat them as an employee for insurance purposes.
Does Workers Comp cover me as the founder?
Not if you’re a sole trader. If you’re a company director, you can opt into Workers’ Comp coverage in some states. Otherwise, you need Personal Accident Insurance for yourself.
What if they work from home?
Workers Comp still applies. If they’re injured during work hours (even at home), it’s potentially a Workers Comp claim.
Can I fire them if they make a claim?
Absolutely not. That’s illegal and will result in both a Workers’ Comp claim AND an unfair dismissal claim. Workers’ Comp exists to protect injured workers—never penalise them for claiming.