Liability Insurance News Wrap for Tradies and Business
Each week, we break down the biggest Australian liability news in plain English — regulatory updates, court decisions, claim trends, and risk issues affecting tradies, contractors, and small business owners. Expect a clear, weekly recap with context, practical takeaways, and what to watch next across public and professional liability. Trustworthy, independent, and easy to digest, it’s your steady briefing to stay compliant, understand obligations, and make informed, day-to-day decisions.
This Week:
Weekly wrap for Australian tradies and small businesses. AFCA advances the Scams Prevention Framework, with enforcement already biting; ASIC flags fairness issues with cash settlements; a SafeWork NSW prosecution after a crane hit power lines underscores WHS duties; and a NSW review backs education over mandatory e‑bike insurance. Takeaway: review cyber, public and professional liability for scam and operations exposures, tighten site controls, and seek broker help before accepting cash settlements or changing cover.
EPISODE 2875 | Liability Insurance News Wrap for Tradies and Business | Sun, 6th Sep 2026
7 Sep 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Liability Insurance News Wrap for Tradies and Business, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday, 6 September 2026.
First, scam liability is getting real for businesses. AFCA, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, confirmed more than a hundred new members under the Scams Prevention Framework and kicked off a four‑week rules consultation. Courts have already issued large penalties for scam control failings, and government has flagged insurance as a “fast follower.” If you issue invoices or handle client funds, check your cyber policy for social engineering and payment‑redirection cover, mind any sub‑limits, and make sure your public and professional liability wont leave gaps before your next renewal.
Next up, the corporate regulator ASIC — the Australian Securities and Investments Commission — says cash settlements after property damage are often leaving customers short. Its 31 August review found cash offers were frequently based on a single quote, shifting repair risks back to customers. If youre offered a cash payout on a business claim, take time to match scope, timing and costs against what a managed repair would deliver, and get broker support before you accept.
Meanwhile in New South Wales, a SafeWork case shows why site controls still matter. A cement company copped a $135,000 fine after a crane brought down a live power line. No one was hurt, but WHS — work health and safety — duties were breached. For crews working near overhead lines, tighten exclusion zones, use spotters, and keep SWMS and training records current. Good controls reduce incidents and help claims run more smoothly under public liability.
And a NSW review says education beats a new insurance mandate for e‑bikes. It found compulsory cover for private e‑bikes would cost more than it delivers, and recommended rider education and targeted enforcement instead. Food‑delivery riders and shared schemes already have insurance settings; if your business uses e‑bikes, check your public liability extends to riders, and refresh safety briefings and equipment standards.
Thats the wrap. For clear explanations, quick comparisons, and tailored cover for your trade or business, head to liability‑insurance.com.au and get started today.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
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