WorkCover Queensland conducted a compliance and education roadshow in September focusing on the construction industry in Townsville.

WorkCover’s assessment of over 150 construction employers in Townsville found 84 per cent had the correct level of workers’ compensation. This compares with a state-wide average of 81 per cent compliance identified for all industry site visits.

WorkCover Queensland’s compliance education and awareness roadshows demonstrate the organisation’s commitment to helping employers and contractors in regional Queensland better understand their workers’ compensation obligations and address any potential areas of non-compliance.

WorkCover Education and Compliance Manager, Kerry Hillhouse said it was pleasing to see good compliance rates among construction employers in the Townsville area.

“Over 80 per cent of employers we visited had the correct level of workers’ compensation with only a small level of non-compliance where employers engaged subcontractors without the proper cover,” Kerry said.

“Feedback on the roadshow from Townsville construction employers has been very positive. Employers appreciated WorkCover’s advice that individual sole trader subcontractors may be deemed ‘workers’ and needed workers’ compensation coverage even if they have their own Australian Business Number,” she said.

“The employers, workers and subcontractors we visited said they welcomed WorkCover’s interest in their businesses. The advice and tips provided gave them a better understanding of worker’s compensation legislative requirements,” Kerry said.

By conducting regular site visits through regional Queensland, WorkCover is committed to creating a level playing field within the construction industry.

“As a high risk industry, it is important that construction employers are continuously looking after their workers’ health and safety.

“Providing education and advice to employers is just one way we are helping to do this,” Kerry said.

You can check to see if your contractors are ‘workers’ and should be covered by your WorkCover policy by using the ATO employee/contractor decision tool.

You can apply for a policy at any time using our online services, or read more about renewing your policy and declaring wages on our dedicated premium page including information on what wages should be declared.