According to icare’s “Take out a policy” guidance, a business with employees in NSW probably needs Workers Compensation cover, although not all employers do, so check whether the requirement applies. For either a new policy or the reinstatement of a cancelled policy, gather the required business, previous-cover and payroll details plus bank details; icare says the process takes about 10–15 minutes, businesses that previously held a policy can call 13 44 22, and a quote completed within the last 30 days can be retrieved to continue the application (figures checked 1 October 2026).
Do I need Workers Compensation cover in NSW?
icare says a business with employees in NSW probably needs a Workers Compensation policy. However, not every employer requires this insurance, so check your circumstances on icare’s current regulator page before applying.
What details should I have ready before applying?
Have the following information ready, whether you are taking out a new policy or reinstating a cancelled policy:
| Category | Information needed |
|---|---|
| Business identity | Legal name and ABN |
| Addresses | Postal and operating addresses |
| Contact | Contact details |
| Policy timing | Proposed policy start date |
| Business activity | Type of business, such as the main business activity |
| Previous cover | Details of past Workers Compensation insurance |
| Workforce | Number of workers in the business |
| Wages | Estimate of wages paid to workers |
What if the business held Workers Compensation insurance before?
Keep the details of your past Workers Compensation insurance available for the application. If the business previously held a Workers Compensation policy, icare asks you to call 13 44 22 for assistance. Help is also available through icare’s webchat or by calling the same number.
This is general information, not financial or legal advice. Check icare’s regulator page and the applicable policy PDS for the current requirements and terms.
What should I check before the application is issued?
Complete these final checks:
- Bank details: Have your bank details ready so refunds can be returned quickly and securely.
- Recent quote: If you completed a quote within the last 30 days, retrieve the saved quote and continue the application rather than starting again.
- Policy issue date and time: Coverage of the business and its people starts from the time and date the policy is issued. This information appears on the certificate of currency. Once issued, a policy cannot be backdated.
Sources
FAQ
How long does the application process take?
Once all the required information is available, icare says the process takes about 10–15 minutes.
Can I continue from a quote I completed recently?
Yes. If the quote was completed within the last 30 days, you can retrieve the saved quote and continue the application without starting again.
When does Workers Compensation cover start?
Coverage starts from the time and date the policy is issued. The issue time and date are shown on the certificate of currency.
Can an issued policy be backdated?
No. icare states that a policy cannot be backdated once it has been issued.
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