If your business or organisation works with children or even operates in spaces where children may be present, there are new legal obligations in Queensland you should be aware of. 

Queensland’s Child Safe Organisations Act 2024 introduced a mandatory framework to help protect children from harm. It is overseen by the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) and currently covers around 40,000 organisations across the state. 

As your insurance and risk adviser, we are not here to interpret the law for you, that is best left to the QFCC and your legal advisers. What we can do is help you understand the broader picture, point you toward the right resources, and make sure your insurance is keeping pace with your obligations. 

Who Does This Apply To? 

A common question we hear is: “Does this apply to us? Children aren’t really our main focus.” 

The short answer is it might. The laws are broader than many organisations expect. You should check whether the Child Safe Standards apply to your organisation if you:

• Provide services directly to children or young people
• Run spaces or facilities that children use
• Work at sites where children may be present, even if only sometimes
• Operate online platforms or apps used by children
• Collect, store or handle information or images of children
• Engage subcontractors, volunteers or labour hire workers in child-accessible environments

This covers a wide range of businesses; tutoring centres, gyms, play centres, sports clubs, religious organisations, allied health providers, community groups, and more.

If children come through your doors or interact with your services in any way, it is worth checking your obligations.

The QFCC has a straightforward guide to help you work out whether the Standards apply to you: qfcc.qld.gov.au/childsafe

What Has Changed and When?

The new Standards have been rolling out in stages since October 2025.

The cashflow problem nobody talks about

You’ve done the work. You’ve delivered goods or services to a customer. The invoice is issued, terms are agreed, and you expect payment. Then it doesn’t arrive.

It sounds straightforward: chase it up, follow payment terms, and move on. But sometimes a customer becomes insolvent or stops paying, and no amount of chasing gets the money back. When that happens, it affects your cashflow and ties up money you’d otherwise have available for your business.

This is where trade credit insurance comes in. It’s a practical tool for businesses that extend credit as part of their normal operations, which is most businesses.

What trade credit insurance actually does

Trade credit insurance helps protect your business when a customer can’t pay their invoice. If the claim is accepted, the insurer may reimburse part of the invoice amount, which helps your cashflow.

The cover works for both local customers and overseas buyers. If you export, it can also cover risks like currency problems or government actions that prevent payment.

When you purchase trade credit insurance, you get access to the insurance protection plus you may have access to complementary services from the insurance provider. These typically include credit information services, credit assessment, monitoring alerts, and support tools. Together, these elements help you manage the risk of unpaid invoices.

When cashflow really matters

For any business that gives customers time to pay, cashflow matters. You’re paying your team and suppliers now, but getting paid later. When a customer doesn’t pay as expected, that gap gets tighter.

Some sectors feel this pressure more acutely:

• Building and construction: You may pay for materials and labour upfront while waiting weeks for your customer to pay.
• Manufacturing and distribution: You may hold stock or manage production for customers who may not pay on time.
• Labour hire: You may be paying staff weekly but invoicing customers monthly.
• Professional services: Invoices may sit unpaid for months while you’ve already delivered the work.
• Food and hospitality supply: You may work on tight margins, so a customer not paying can significantly impact operations.

Industry data shows that certain sectors see higher volumes of trade credit claims. Building and hardware, along with food and provisions, are among the sectors where customer payment issues are more commonly reported. This reflects the nature of how these industries operate, with extended payment terms and cashflow timing challenges.

Five reasons to consider trade credit insurance

Your debtors ledger is often one of your largest business assets. Trade credit insurance helps protect it by addressing five key business concerns:

1. Preserve profit. When a customer doesn’t pay, that invoice value disappears from your bottom line. Trade credit insurance can help by providing reimbursement if an unrecoverable debt occurs, subject to your policy terms.
2. Protect liquidity and cashflow. If a significant customer default occurs, a claim under your trade credit insurance policy may inject funds back into your business, helping you to maintain operations and meet your payment obligations.
3. Extend credit with confidence. When you have insurance protection in place for customer defaults, you may feel more confident extending credit terms to customers. The insurance helps manage the financial impact if a debt becomes uncollectable.
4. Strengthen credit management. Trade credit insurance providers offer credit information services, analysis, and monitoring alerts. This supports better credit decisions based on sound analysis and real-time information about your debtors’ financial position.
5. Add security for your bank. Insuring your debtors ledger provides a source of security that you may be able to offer your banks when discussing facilities. The specific implications would depend on your bank’s requirements and your individual circumstances.

These benefits depend on your specific policy terms, the cover you select, and your individual circumstances.

Understanding the full service

When you purchase trade credit insurance, you’re typically getting access to more than just claims protection. Insurance providers offer complementary services that work alongside the insurance itself:

• Credit information services help identify customer details and provide information about potential payment risks before you extend credit
• Credit assessment analyses customer information to help inform credit limit decisions
• Ongoing monitoring alerts notify you when information about your customers changes
• Support tools and advice can help you understand credit management practices

These services are part of a complete offering. What’s included depends on your specific policy and provider.

Whether trade credit insurance is the right fit depends on your individual circumstances, your existing credit policies, and your specific needs. These are matters worth discussing with your risk and insurance adviser so you can understand exactly what’s included with your cover and how it aligns with your business situation.

What’s covered and what’s not

Trade credit insurance policies are designed to cover specific scenarios. However, the exact cover depends entirely on your policy wording and the underwriter.

Common scenarios that may be covered include:

• Customer insolvency or bankruptcy
• Protracted default (customer stops paying over an extended period)
• Political risks affecting overseas customers, such as currency inconvertibility, cancellation of import or export licences, contract cancellation or repudiation due to government action, and contract frustration due to war, civil war, riots or commotions

Common exclusions typically include:

• Disputed invoices where the customer contests that goods or services meet the contract requirements
• Invoices for goods or services that weren’t delivered or rendered

What is and isn’t covered under your specific policy depends on your individual policy terms and conditions. Before purchasing cover, it’s essential to discuss with your risk and insurance adviser exactly what scenarios your policy will and won’t cover. Your adviser can explain the specific inclusions, exclusions, limitations, and conditions that apply to your situation.

How much does it cost?

Premium rates for trade credit insurance vary significantly depending on multiple factors, including:

• Your industry and sector
• The level of turnover to be insured
• The level of deductibles you choose
• The credit terms you extend to customers
• The geographic spread of your buyer and country risks
• The quality of your debtors
• Your claims history
• The type of policy you select (whole-of-portfolio, single-buyer, or other arrangements)
• Coverage options and limits

Because premiums depend on all these factors, there is no single “standard” rate. Your risk and insurance adviser can provide specific premium information based on your individual business circumstances and the cover you’re considering.

Importantly, premiums paid for credit insurance coverage are tax deductible. Premiums can typically be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on your arrangement with your underwriter.

To understand what trade credit insurance would cost for your specific business, it’s essential to discuss your situation with your risk and insurance adviser.

Is trade credit insurance right for your business?

Every business is different. Some are actively managing customer credit risk and may have never had a significant unpaid invoice. Others operate in sectors where customer defaults are more common and cashflow management is critical.

Trade credit insurance is available to businesses of all sizes across most industries. The cost and the benefit depend on your specific situation: your customer base, your margins, your industry, and how much risk you’re comfortable carrying yourself.

At the same time, the market for trade credit insurance in Australia has become more accessible and competitively priced in recent years. Underwriters are actively writing cover. Policy terms have become more policyholder-friendly, with lower deductibles and higher indemnity levels now more common.

Whether it makes sense for your business is a conversation worth having with your risk and insurance adviser. Clear Insurance can help you to understand if the protection aligns with your specific situation and risk profile.

What comes next

If trade credit insurance sounds relevant to your business, the first conversation is straightforward. You can contact Clear Insurance for advice. We will typically discuss:

• Your customer mix and geographic footprint
• Your current credit terms and payment history
• Your largest customer concentrations
• Whether you have overseas customers or are looking to export

From there, we will work with insurers to assess what cover makes sense, what it would cost, and what coverage limits and deductibles suit your business. Some businesses find whole-of-portfolio protection makes sense. Others prefer single-buyer cover for their largest accounts. Others might add political risk cover for export sales.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right cover depends on your business.

If you’d like to discuss whether trade credit insurance makes sense for your situation, contact Clear Insurance. We can help you understand what’s available, what it costs, and what cover options suit your needs.

___________________________________________

Sources and further reading

This article is based on:

• Published market commentary and updates from trade credit insurance industry participants including Lockton Australia (February and March 2026 market updates), Grand View Research, and Securitas Global
• Public information about trade credit insurance products and services from Australian underwriters and brokers
• Trade credit claims and industry data from National Credit Insurance and other public market sources
• Australian economic data from the Reserve Bank of Australia and Australian Bureau of Statistics
• Policy information from publicly available insurance product documentation and underwriter guides

Trade credit insurance is offered by multiple underwriters in Australia including National Credit Insurance, Allianz Trade, Atradius, Coface, QBE, and others. Policies and terms vary by underwriter and by your specific situation.

Your club may operate differently now from when you first arranged your insurance. Perhaps you have refurbished the bistro, upgraded the gaming area or started hosting more functions. You may have expanded your sporting activities, introduced a courtesy bus or taken on more volunteers.

These changes are a normal part of running a successful community club. However, when your operations change, your insurance may need to change too.

Your current cover may still be suitable. The important question is whether it reflects what your club does, owns and is responsible for today.

Renewal is a good time to review your insurance. However, you should discuss major changes with your insurance adviser when you are planning them, rather than waiting until renewal.

A Community Asset and a Commercial Venue.

Community clubs have an important role. They give members a place to meet, take part in sport and enjoy social activities. Many clubs also run several commercial services from the same premises.

On a busy weekend, your bistro may be serving lunch while the gaming room is operating, a private function is taking place, and volunteers are helping with a sporting event. Each activity can affect your insurance. Some may be covered by your business insurance. Others may need extra cover or a separate policy. The key is to understand what your insurance covers, instead of assuming every activity is included.

The mix of licensed activities, commercial services and community involvement is why it is important to consider your club’s insurance as a whole.

How Your Club’s Activities Affect Its Insurance

Liquor Licensing and Hospitality

If your club serves alcohol, you will know that holding a liquor licence comes with responsibilities.

Queensland’s Liquor Act 1992 sets requirements for licensed premises, including the responsible service of alcohol. Your public liability insurance may include cover for liquor-related risks. This depends on the policy’s terms, conditions and exclusions. The way you use your licenced areas can also matter. Longer trading hours, larger functions or changes to the premises may affect the activities described in your insurance.

Your bistro brings other considerations. Commercial kitchen equipment, refrigeration and food service arrangements all form part of how your club operates. If you have upgraded these facilities or changed how you use them, this may affect your property and liability cover.

Gaming Operations

Gaming machines are an important source of income for many clubs. The machines themselves can also be a significant investment. Changes to the gaming area, replacement machines, or a large increase or decrease in gaming revenue may affect your property values and the financial information used for business interruption insurance.

Queensland’s Gaming Machine Act 1991 regulates gaming machine operations. Liquor and gaming licences can also be connected. A licensing issue may affect your operations, but this does not mean any resulting interruption will automatically be covered by insurance.

Business interruption cover usually applies only when an insured event, such as fire or storm damage, causes the interruption. Cover for regulatory or licensing issues depends on the policy wording and any extensions included.

This means you need to consider not only the value or the gaming machines, but also the role gaming income plays in your club’s finances.

Functions, Events and Sporting Activities

Clubs often host activities outside their usual trading operations. You may hire out your function room for weddings or corporate events. You may also organise sporting competitions, fundraising activities or events away from the club’s premises.

These activities can raise questions about who is responsible, whether outside contractors have their own insurance and how your club’s policies apply. For example, an event held at your club is not necessarily covered in every situation just because you have public liability insurance. The type of event, who organises it and the policy wording can all affect the cover.

Volunteers and Community Involvement

Volunteers make a valuable contribution to community clubs. They may organise sporting competitions, help with fundraising, support events or serve on the committee. It is important to understand how your insurance applies to them, especially when their responsiblities change.

Worker’s compensation does not necessarily cover every volunteer. Some volunteers may be covered under Queensland laws. Voluntary workers personal accident insurance may also provide certain benefits for eligible injuries, depending on the policy terms.

You should also understand how your public liability insurance applies when volunteers carry out activities for your club. The type of work they do matters. Simply describing someone as a volunteer does not determine what cover applies.

Are Your Property Values Still Accurate?

Your club’s buildings and contents can change over time. You may have refurbished the dining area, replaced commercial kitchen equipment or bought new gaming machines. Even if you have not carried out major renovations, building costs and replacement values may have increased. The amount you insure your building for should reflect the cost of rebuilding it. It should not be based only on an old estimate or the amount you originally declared, perhaps years ago.

Some property policies include underinsurance or average provisions. These provisions can reduce a claim payment if the amount insured is too low. How they apply depends on the policy wording.

A professional valuation may be useful if your club has specialist equipment, unusual buildings or heritage features. Major renovations and new equipment can also affect your insurance before the work starts or the equipment arrives. Discuss these changes with your insurance adviser when you are planning them, rather than waiting until renewal.

Would Your Business Interruption Cover Reflect a Major Disruption?

Imagine your club had to close after a serious fire. Repairing the damage would be an immediate concern. However, you would also need to consider the financial impact of being unable to trade.

Many clubs receive income from several sources, including gaming, food and drinks, memberships and functions. Business interruption insurance may help cover some of the financial losses caused by an insured event. The cover is subject to the policy’s terms, limits and exclusions.

Your cover should reflect how your club earns money. If gaming revenue has increased, or your bistro and functions business has grown, you may need to update the financial information used to arrange your insurance.

It is also important to understand how the policy calculates a loss. Revenue and insurable gross profit are not always the same. The right figures depend on the policy wording. Your accountant and insurance adviser can help work out the relevant amounts.

You should consider how long it could take your club to return to normal trading. Rebuilding may involve approvals, construction work, specialist equipment and delays before you can reopen. Your business interruption policy includes an indemnity period. This is the period for which the policy may cover your loss of income after an insured event. A period that was suitable when you first arranged the policy may no longer be long enough.

What About Your Committee’s Insurance?

Your committee oversees the club, often on a voluntary basis. Incorporation can provide some protection, but it does not remove every possible personal risk for committee members. Claims about management decisions, employment matters or other wrongful acts may raise questions about management liability insurance.

This cover is different from public liability and property insurance that protects other parts of your club.

Many management liability policies operate on a claims made basis. This means the timing of a claim, and when you notify the insurer, can be important. The policy may also require you to notify the insurer about circumstances that could lead to a future claim.

Your committee does not need to understand every technical detail. However, members should know what protection is available and what the policy says about notifying claims or possible claims.

Changes to committee members, management arrangements or club operations are good reasons to review this cover. Your insurance adviser can explain what the policy covers. Speak to a suitably qualified legal adviser about committee members’ legal duties or governance responsibilities.

What Should Your Committee Consider Before Renewal

Insurance renewal can become a routine task, especially if your club has held similar policies for several years. Instead of simply renewing last year’s insurance, consider whether the information used to arrange it still reflects your club.

Have your activities changed or expanded? Are your building and equipment values up to date? Does your business interruption cover reflect your current income? Have volunteers, contractors or committee members taken on new responsibilities?

Ask your insurance adviser whether any policy limits, exclusions or conditions have changed, and what those mean for your club.

You do not need to work through every policy clause yourself. The aim is to give your adviser an accurate picture of your club and make sure your insurance options are explained clearly. Renewal is a useful time to review your insurance, but ideally, it should not be the first time you mention major changes. Discuss renovations, new equipment and services while you are planning them. This gives you time to consider any insurance issues before making decisions.

For more information about when to contact your insurance adviser, read our article 7 Reasons to Call an Insurance Adviser.

Understanding Your Club’s Insurance

Your club’s insurance should reflect how it operates today. This includes the mix of commercial activities and community responsibilities that makes each club different. This does not mean your current insurance is unsuitable. It may already meet your needs. However, as your club changes, it is sensible to review your insurance and understand whether anything needs to be updated.

At Clear Insurance, we work with licensed clubs, RSL clubs and hospitality venues to help them understand their insurance options. Learn more about our approach on our Clubs & Hospitality Insurance page.

If your club is approaching renewal, or you would like to discuss your current insurance, call us on 1300 721 132. We can have an initial conversation about your circumstances and how we may be able to help. If you need a detailed review of your current insurance, we can also explain our Risk & Insurance Review service.

Sources & Further Reading

• • Liquor Act 1992 (Qld) business.qld.gov.au/industries/hospitality-tourism-sport/liquor-gaming/liquor  
  • Gaming Machine Act 1991 (Qld)  business.qld.gov.au/industries/hospitality-tourism-sport/liquor-gaming/gaming
  • Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Qld)  https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/
  • Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld) https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/
  • Queensland Government, Business Queensland: Liquor and gaming licensing information https://www.business.qld.gov.au/
  • Worksafe Queensland: workers’ compensation and volunteer arrangements https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/volunteers
  • Insurance Council of Australia: business interruption insurance information https://insurancecouncil.com.au/
  • Institute of Community Directors Australia: insurance considerations for community organisations https://www.communitydirectors.com.au/

Why is it important to understand your financial risks?

Understanding your risks is crucial. It’s vital to identify the risks associated with your hospitality business, as these can change depending on the activities and services you offer. By staying informed about potential risks, such as property damage, liability claims, or operational disruptions, you are better equipped to make informed decisions about how to manage, mitigate or transfer those risks through insurance.

With a solid understanding of your insurance needs, you can ensure your insurance program offers real value and protection.

What protective role can insurance play for clubs and hospitality businesses?

Insurance serves as a risk transfer mechanism, offering financial protection against unforeseen events. However, merely having insurance is not sufficient; the insurance must be tailored to meet your specific needs. Your insurance adviser can explain the available insurance solutions, allowing you to choose coverage that aligns with the scale and scope of your club’s activities.

How can a hospitality business evaluate its insurance cover?

Clubs, boards, and business directors can consider several factors:

Risk Assessment – Are there new or evolving risks that may impact your insurance?

Coverage Scope – Are there any gaps or exclusions that may leave your club vulnerable?

Policy Limits – Are the policy limits sufficient, or do they expose the business to potential financial losses?

Suitability – Does your insurer understand the unique needs of a hospitality business like yours?

Is underinsurance an issue for hospitality businesses?

Underinsurance is a common problem for venues across Australia. It’s essential to thoroughly understand your insurance program and the limits of your sums insured. For instance, if a claim exceeds the limit, a community club could incur significant out-of-pocket expenses and expose board members to personal liability. Independent insurance replacement valuations by qualified valuers can establish replacement values, reinstatement costs, debris removal expenses, and adequate rebuilding timeframes to inform the appropriate sums insured limits.

What should you do if you have concerns about your risk and insurance program?

If you have concerns about your risk and insurance program, we encourage you to consult your insurance adviser promptly. If you are not satisfied, Clear Insurance offers a no-obligation risk and insurance review for your peace of mind. Contact Lisa Carter at lisa.carter@clearinsurance.com.au or call 1300 721 132.

What are lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries are the driving force behind many of our everyday electronic devices, including mobile phones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools, and more. These rechargeable power sources are known for their efficiency, but their unique composition can also pose fire risks if they are not handled properly.

Understanding the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries is essential. These batteries contain highly flammable electrolytes, and if a battery were to burst, it could release toxic and explosive gases. Such incidents can lead to intense, self-sustaining fires that are incredibly difficult to extinguish.

Understanding fire risks related to lithium-ion batteries

Incidents involving lithium-ion batteries highlight the need for caution. For example, a recent explosion from an e-bike left charging in a unit at North Bondi serves as a reminder of the potential fire risks associated with these batteries.

Several factors can increase the fire risk of lithium-ion batteries, including:

• Over charging; using non-compliant charging equipment can lead to overheating
• Physical Damage: Dropping or crushing the battery can cause internal failure
• Short-circuiting: Malfunctions within the battery or system can trigger fires
• Manufacturing defects: poor production quality can lead to unsafe batteries

According to an ACCC report, charging is the most common time for lithium-ion battery fires to occur. Fire services have collectively responded to over 1,000 lithium-ion battery fires since January 2023.

Implications for insurance regarding lithium-ion battery fire risks

Insurers are evaluating policy modifications to better manage the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. It could include setting strict conditions for battery storage, adhering to manufacturer guidelines and ensuring purchases are from reputable suppliers.

To help mitigate the risks related to lithium-ion battery use, we recommend seeking advice from independent risk management professionals that specialise in your industry. They can help you develop adequate policies and procedures for the use, maintenance and disposal of lithium-ion devices within your business. When implemented, it provides evidence to insurers that you actively try to mitigate and monitor fire risk.

How to mitigate the fire risks of lithium-ion batteries?

Staying informed about lithium-ion battery safety is essential in our tech-driven world. Here are five tips that safety experts recommend for managing the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries:

1. Check Product Quality

Ensure all products meet local safety standards and purchase devices from authorised dealers. Avoid cheap or counterfeit chargers that may lack essential safety features.

2. Conduct Regular Inspections

Safety experts recommend maintaining an inspection register for all lithium-ion battery devices, including age, quality, and performance. They recommend scheduling regular inspections of devices using lithium-ion batteries and having a device replacement program. Should you notice any faults, damage or the batteries, reach the end of their usable life, it is recommended that you stop using the battery immediately and follow the correct procedures for replacement and disposal.

It is advisable to monitor for product recalls and take note of device safety notices. Fire incidents within general waste are on the rise due to improper disposal of batteries, increasing the risk for workers at refuse and recycling stations. Check out the local recycling programs to see what’s available in your area.

3. Educate Occupants & Staff

Safety experts recommend that staff and residents are aware of fire safety procedures, including the location and use of fire extinguishers.

4. Install Safety Equipment

Fire safety experts recommend regular inspections of fire extinguishers and fire safety equipment to ensure they are easily accessible in the event of a fire. They also recommend monitoring cell voltage, currents and temperature to reduce fire risk, especially in areas that store devices with batteries or battery banks.

5. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Manufacturers recommend that lithium-ion batteries are charged according to the manufacturer’s instructions to minimise fire risk. They set out the best practices for charging and storing their devices. It may include charging devices in well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight and ensuring they are not covered or enclosed while charging.

Manufacturers recommend device charging periods to ensure users avoid charging their products longer than required or overnight. They often recommend unplugging devices once they reach full charge to protect battery life and storing lithium-ion battery devices at 40-60% charge.

How to seek advice on transferring risk to insurance

Insurance is a valuable tool for risk transfer. As risk and insurance advisers, we can help you identify the risks to your business and guide you through the options available to transfer those risks to insurance. Clear Insurance offers a no-obligation risk and insurance review, resulting in a detailed gap analysis report of your current risk transfer and insurance program. This report empowers you to make informed decisions about whether to keep, mitigate or transfer risks to insurance.

We also recommend seeking advice from professionals on matters such as HR, legal, risk management, health and safety and insurance replacement valuations to ensure you have robust policies, procedures and valuations in place to reduce the risk of claims.

A proactive risk strategy enables you to present an accurate picture of your business and operations to insurers, allowing them to assess whether to underwrite the risk and determine the premium cost. 

Contact Clear Insurance today for advice on your risk transfer and insurance needs.

Queensland clubs operating a courtesy bus service are now within a critical compliance window. The new safety management framework commenced on 20 February 2026, introducing expanded safety obligations and mandatory Safety Management Plans for all courtesy bus operators.  

Full compliance becomes mandatory on 20 August 2026. That’s less than five months away. 

These changes reinforce why robust safety systems matter, and build on the foundations clubs have already been putting in place, such as driver security checks. They also introduce new responsibilities that extend well beyond day-to-day operations, including formal duties for boards and management committees. 

This article summarises what has changed and what it means for your club. 

Key Dates

The table below outlines the critical compliance milestones for courtesy bus operators.

Please note: Clear Insurance provides general insurance advice and risk transfer solutions under our AFSL authorisation. We do not provide risk management consulting or safety compliance advice – that is outside the scope of our licence. For guidance on implementing Safety Management Plans and meeting your regulatory obligations, clubs should consult qualified risk management consultants or safety advisers or refer to guidance published by the Department of Transport and Main Roads. 

Updated: 25 June 2026

The violent assault incident inside Easts Leagues Club has prompted important conversations across the club community about preparedness and protection. For general managers and board members, it’s timely to consider how your club would respond in similar circumstances and whether your insurance arrangements provide adequate support.  

Beyond Property Damage

Traditional club insurance focuses on property damage and business interruption. These remain important. However, violent incidents can create different challenges. The Easts situation illustrates that while immediate physical damage may be limited, the wider impact on the club, its members, and the community is substantial. 

The Financial Impact of Closure 

Beyond immediate costs, clubs may face substantial financial losses if required to close temporarily following a violent incident. Police investigations could restrict access for days or weeks, while patron hesitancy may reduce trade during recovery. Lost gaming revenue, bar sales and function bookings can quickly erode financial position. Traditional business interruption policies typically require physical property damage to trigger coverage, potentially leaving clubs without income support when it’s needed most. 

What Standard Policies May Not Cover 

When such events occur, clubs face other immediate needs that existing policies may not address, for example: 

• Crisis Management Expertise may become essential. You could need access to professionals who understand how to coordinate with police, communicate with members, staff and the media, while protecting your club’s reputation during a traumatic period.

• Legal Representation emerges as another significant concern. Injured patrons and staff may pursue claims related to security measures, response procedures, or duty of care. Even clubs that act responsibly could need specialist legal representation to defend their position and demonstrate they met their obligations.

• Independent Investigation Services may provide crucial documentation of events. This could protect your club’s interests while showing transparency to members, authorities, and the broader community. When questions arise about what happened and how your club responded, having objective evidence may prove invaluable.

• Professional Counselling Support for affected staff and patrons may be needed. The psychological impact of witnessing or experiencing violence can be profound and long-lasting.

Specialised Coverage for Modern Risks

If you’re concerned that your club may not be adequately prepared for such incidents, insurance solutions are available that may suit your needs. For example, Deadly Weapons Protection insurance specifically addresses these devastating scenarios, responding when weapons are involved, including firearms, knives, syringes, corrosive substances, or vehicles used deliberately to cause harm. Importantly, the policy activates even when weapons are simply brandished rather than used, enabling early crisis intervention. 

The coverage connects you immediately with crisis management services, covers business interruption (consequential loss of profits), provides legal services during investigations, ensures proper documentation through investigation support, and offers counselling services to help your community heal. 

Your Board’s Duty of Care 

Every club board carries a duty of care extending to members, staff, and visitors. Part of meeting this obligation involves ensuring appropriate insurance protection for scenarios that, whilst rare, can have severe consequences when they occur. 

Need Advice on Your Insurance Program

If you’d like to discuss your club’s insurance arrangements and how you’re covered for violent incidents, contact Clear Insurance on 1300 721 132, email info@clearinsurance.com.au or complete our online enquiry form and an adviser will be in touch. A risk and insurance review can help you understand your current position and any gaps in cover that might exist.

The incident at Easts Leagues Club reminds us that community clubs operate in an unpredictable environment. Sound governance means acknowledging these risks and ensuring your club has access to the expert support needed should the unthinkable occur. Your community and customers expect nothing less.

Recent independent research commissioned by the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) has quantified what many business owners already know intuitively: working with a professional insurance adviser delivers measurable value that goes far beyond simply placing a policy. 

Understanding the Insurance Adviser Advantage 

The landmark research, titled “Complexity to Clarity: The Broker Advantage,” surveyed 409 Australian business decision-makers and owners to understand the tangible impact insurance advisers have on business outcomes. The 7 findings are compelling and reinforce why partnering with an experienced insurance broker makes sound business sense. 

1. Save Valuable Time with Expert Insurance Guidance

Time is one of your most valuable resources as a business owner. The research found that engaging an insurance adviser saves businesses an average of 20 hours across the insurance process. This includes time saved understanding insurance needs (3.2 hours), finding and comparing policies (4.8 hours), completing paperwork and applications (2.3 hours), managing renewals (2.5 hours), and supporting claims (7.2 hours).

That’s 20 hours you can reinvest into running and growing your business, focusing on what you do best while your adviser handles the complexity of insurance management. 

2. Build Trust and Confidence in Your Insurance Program 

Trust is the foundation of any successful advisory relationship. The research revealed that 84% of businesses trust their adviser to act in their best interests, while 88% have confidence that their insurance cover is right for their business. 

At Clear Insurance, we earn this trust through expertise, transparency, and a genuine commitment to client outcomes. We take the time to understand your business, explain your options clearly, and ensure you have appropriate protection in place. 

3. Expert Claims Support When It Matters Most

When a claim occurs, having an advocate in your corner makes all the difference. The research demonstrated strong client satisfaction with claims assistance: 

• 95% of businesses view their adviser as critical to claims resolution 
• 98% report their claims have been successfully resolved 
• 95% say their adviser helped speed up the claims process 
• 91% believe their adviser’s involvement helped achieve a better outcome 

As one business owner from the survey noted: “We had a lot on our hands to deal with at that moment. It was our broker that did the job almost to its entirety. At the end we still got a perfect result.” 

Such an approach reflects our core value of care. At Clear Insurance, we stand beside you during challenging times, managing the claims process and advocating for fair outcomes so you can focus on business recovery. 

4. Comprehensive Risk Transfer Advice and Protection

Insurance advisers don’t just place policies; they help identify risks you may not have considered. The research found that 94% of businesses enhanced their risk transfer approach through additional cover or adjustments recommended by their adviser. 

Importantly, 89% of businesses felt this risk identification was helpful and valuable, with three in four taking action to either purchase additional cover or implement other risk management strategies. 

Such an approach demonstrates our commitment to competence. At Clear Insurance, we leverage our industry knowledge and experience to identify gaps in coverage and recommend solutions tailored to your specific business risks. 

5. Experience a Smoother Insurance Journey

Managing insurance doesn’t have to be stressful. The research showed 87% overall satisfaction with adviser services, with clients consistently praising advisers for “doing the heavy lifting” and making the process smooth and transparent. 

At Clear Insurance, our dedication to clarity means we explain insurance in plain language, walk you through your options, and ensure you understand what you’re covered for. No jargon, no confusion, just straightforward advice you can act on. 

6. Achieve Better Business Outcomes 

Perhaps most significantly, 91% of businesses say their insurance adviser helped them achieve better business outcomes, reinforcing the adviser’s role as a strategic partner rather than simply a transaction facilitator. 

7. Preparing for Future Business Challenges 

As businesses look toward 2035, the research reveals that client expectations are evolving. 79% of businesses believe they will need more strategic advice from their advisers in the coming decade, as they navigate: 

• Increased use of technology and automation (83% expect this to affect their business) 
• New and emerging risks (82%)
• Greater regulatory complexity (75%)
• More tailored insurance products (82%) 

Why Choose Clear Insurance as Your Insurance Adviser 

At Clear Insurance, we’re proud members of NIBA and subscribe to the NIBA Code of Conduct, demonstrating our commitment to professionalism, transparency, and ethical practice. As part of the Steadfast network (Australasia’s largest general insurance broker network), we combine local expertise with access to competitive insurance solutions and market-leading support. 

Our role isn’t just to find you insurance; it’s to understand your business, identify your risks, secure appropriate protection, and stand beside you when claims arise. We transform complexity into clarity, giving you the confidence to focus on what you do best. 

Experience Professional Insurance Advice for Your Business

If you’re currently managing your business insurance alone or unsure whether your current cover truly meets your needs, we’d welcome the opportunity to demonstrate the Clear Insurance difference. 

Contact Clear Insurance today for a no-obligation risk and insurance review that provides a detailed gap analysis of your risk transfer and insurance program. It’s the ideal way to receive an honest overview of your insurance program with the insights you need to make informed decisions about your next steps.  

Research Sources: 

This article references independent research commissioned by the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA): 

• “Complexity to Clarity: The Broker Advantage” research report (February 2026) 

• NIBA media release: “NIBA Unveils Sector-Defining Consumer Research” (18 February 2026) 

• Research fieldwork conducted by CoreData between September and October 2025, surveying 409 Australian business decision-makers and owners 

About NIBA: The National Insurance Brokers Association is the peak representative body for the general intermediated insurance market, representing approximately 380 member firms and over 14,000 brokers and authorised representatives across Australia. 

Claim Example: How an Expired Licence Could Leave Your Club Uninsured

Say a club’s courtesy bus is involved in a collision and the driver’s licence has expired. It is highly likely that the expired license will come to light during the claim investigation. In that case, the insurance policy may be deemed void for that trip, exposing the club to significant financial and legal exposure.

Such a scenario can be avoided by creating a simple register that requires monthly checks of your drivers to ensure they have valid licences before starting their shift.

It’s important not to rely upon conditions in employment contracts for drivers or employees to maintain a current driver’s licence.

Your motor vehicle insurance policy will have a clause that states it is the Club’s responsibility to ensure that operators abide by all regulations and laws. Compliance is required to ensure the insurance policy responds successfully in the event of a claim.

Your Insurance Policy Requirements for Driver and Security Licensing

Most motor vehicle public liability insurance policies place clear responsibility on venue operators to ensure all courtesy bus drivers hold current, valid licences appropriate for the vehicles they’re operating. This isn’t about insurance companies being difficult – it’s a fundamental requirement that protects both your patrons and your business.

The same principle applies to contracted security providers. It is best practice for your venue to verify and maintain evidence that your security company holds current public liability insurance. Should their insurance lapse and an incident occurs, the full responsibility of any claims falls to the club’s liability insurance policy creating potentially significant financial exposure to the club.

Key insurance requirements typically include:

Why Licence Management Matters More During Busy Periods

There are several reasons why it matters more during busy times for your venue, for example you may experience:

• Increased patron numbers and extended trading hours
• Higher demand for courtesy bus services to ensure patron safety
• Employ additional casual or relief drivers, and security staff
• More people relying on your services to get home safely
• Greater scrutiny on venue risk management and insurance compliance due to increased patronage

When you’re bringing on extra staff or engaging additional security providers to meet seasonal demand, the risk of overlooking licence and insurance certificate checks increases. Therefore, this is precisely when maintaining accurate driver licence registers and security provider insurance documentation becomes increasingly important for your club’s insurance coverage.

Simple Systems for Register Management

Protecting your venue doesn’t require complex processes. There are some simple steps you can take to help maintain good records of your courtesy bus drivers and security providers, which in turn will provide the evidence you need to support your risk transfer and insurance program:

For Courtesy Bus Drivers

• Maintain a driver licence register of all authorised drivers
• Record licence numbers and expiry dates in a central system
• Set calendar reminders 30 days before expiry dates
• Sight and copy current licences before each roster period
• Ensure the licence class matches your vehicle requirements
• Verify licence status through official channels when onboarding

For Security Providers:

• Request current public liability insurance certificates from your security company, yearly
• Record policy numbers and expiry dates in your register
• Set calendar reminders 30 days before expiry dates
• Obtain updated certificates before engaging services each year
• Keep copies of all current certificates on file
• Verify their cover is appropriate for your venue type and activities
• Request immediate notification if their insurance status changes

Best Practices for Community Clubs

There are several practical steps you can consider that aim to strengthen your driver and security verification processes. You may wish to implement:

A robust checking system:

• Develop a simple spreadsheet with automated expiry date alerts
• Assign one person responsibility for monthly register reviews
• Build licence and certificate checks into your onboarding process
• Include verification in your pre-shift checklist during peak periods
• Communicate clearly with drivers and security providers about renewal timeframes and responsibilities

A process to build accurate records:

• Photograph or scan all licences and insurance certificates for your records
• Note the date you verified each licence
• Record who conducted the verification
• Maintain a log of any renewals
• Store documentation securely but accessibly

The Benefits Beyond Insurance Compliance

While maintaining these registers helps to protect your courtesy bus insurance and public liability coverage, the overall benefits extend beyond your insurance program. For example, it can also:

• Demonstrate your duty of care to patrons and staff
• Support compliance with hospitality venue regulatory requirements
• Provide clear documentation if questions arise during claims
• Create accountability across your team and service providers
• Give you confidence in your operations
• Protect your reputation in the community
• Reduce potential legal liability exposure

Pre-Festive Season Checklist for Venue Operators

If you haven’t reviewed your driver and security registers recently, now is the perfect time. A quick audit today could save significant headaches this festive season.

• Do all current drivers on your register have current licences?
• Do you have copies of current driver licences on file?
• Are any drivers licences due to expire in the next 60 days?
• Do you have current public liability insurance certificates from all security providers?
• Are any security provider insurance certificates due to expire in the next 60 days?
• Do casual staff have their documentation ready for when you need them?
• Have you verified document authenticity through official channels?
• Is your register easily accessible for compliance checks?
• Do staff and providers know how to report renewals or changes to their licence or insurance cover?
• Have you briefed managers on verification procedures?

Frequently Asked Questions About Driver and Security Licence Management

How often should we check courtesy bus driver licences?

Best practice is to verify licences monthly, with additional checks whenever rostering casual or relief drivers. Always verify before the busy periods begin.

What happens if a driver’s licence expires on the day of their shift?

If a licence expires and an incident occurs, your insurance coverage may be void. Build in 30-day warning systems to prevent this scenario.

How often should we request updated insurance certificates from our security company?

Request certificates annually, and always before expiry. Set calendar reminders 30 days before expiry to ensure continuous coverage.

What documentation should we keep for insurance purposes?

Maintain copies of all current licences and insurance certificates, a dated register showing verification checks, and records of any communications about renewals. Keep these for at least seven years.

Can we rely on drivers and security companies to tell us when licences are expiring?

While they should notify you, the legal responsibility under your insurance policy rests with you, the venue operator. Implement your own tracking system rather than relying on employment contracts. Don’t forget, compliance with regulations and laws is the responsibility of the club and is a crucial factor in claim success.

Need advice on your risk transfer and insurance program?

Take advantage of the Clear Insurance no-obligation risk and insurance review for clarity on your current risk transfer and insurance program.  You’ll receive a detailed gap analysis report helping you to make informed decisions. Contact Clear Insurance today.

Understanding What True Insurance Value Means 

When assessing your club’s insurance program, it’s worth considering a broader value equation that goes beyond the bottom-line figure: 

Value = (Protection + Service + Expertise + Claims Outcomes) ÷ Cost 

This framework helps shift focus from simply finding the lowest premium to understanding the total return on your insurance investment—a critical distinction for clubs managing staff, members, assets and business continuity. 

The Real Cost of Club Insurance 

The premium is just one component of your insurance cost. Consider also what happens during a claim: coverage gaps that emerge when a patron is injured on your premises, exclusions that apply during flood damage to your gaming area, or limited support during a cyber incident affecting member data. 

These factors—often unclear at renewal time—can significantly impact your club’s actual out-of-pocket costs when protection is needed most. Hidden excesses, policy exclusions, and claims handling quality all influence the real value your club receives from its insurance program. 

Five Key Value Indicators for Club Insurance 

Consider benchmarking your insurance program against these essential elements: 

1. Taking a Strategic Approach to Insurance Management 

By taking a strategic approach to insurance, you can build a better understanding of your risk exposure and the level of coverage you actually receive from your insurance program. For example, you may consider:

• Risk exposure: Do you have a clear understanding of your risks, risk mitigation strategies and any insurance coverage gap relevant to your operations?

• Risk transfer: Does your risk transfer to insurance program adequately cover your gaming operations, liquor liability, food and beverage services, function spaces, events, and accommodation facilities? 

• High-quality advice: Are you receiving strategic risk and insurance advice that evolves with your venue’s needs, beyond annual insurance renewal administration? Your insurance adviser should understand the unique risks facing Australian clubs and hospitality venues and be on hand to advise on the insurance implications of business decisions, before you commit to new purchases, contracts or building works. 

• Claims support: Is your insurance adviser providing advice, advocacy and support throughout the claims process? When a claim occurs, responsive professional advocacy can make a difference. 

• Business changes: Does your risk and insurance program adapt to your club’s growth plans, renovations, and changing income? Whether you’re expanding gaming areas, renovating dining facilities, or adding additional spaces, your insurance should flex with your strategic direction. Likewise, it may contract with changing circumstances.  

• Level of service: Do you have clear benchmarks for service standards, response times, and outcomes to measure expectations? You should know what to expect from your insurance partner and how to measure their performance. 

Taking a Strategic Approach to Insurance Management 

Many successful clubs across Australia conduct regular value audits of their insurance programs. This includes reviewing how well coverage aligns with key revenue streams (gaming, food and beverage, functions, and accommodation) and evaluating adviser performance against measurable service standards. 

It’s worth considering the following questions: 

• Does your adviser provide risk improvement insights specific to hospitality operations? 
• How quickly are claims typically resolved? 
• How does your insurance program support your club’s strategic objectives? 
• Are you receiving proactive risk management advice, or just annual renewal paperwork? 

Talk to your adviser about any service issues. Professional risk and insurance advisers pride themselves on building long-term relationships with their clients and value client feedback.

Maximising Your Insurance Investment 

Your club’s insurance program represents a significant investment in protecting member assets and ensuring business continuity. Treating it as a strategic partnership, with clear performance expectations and regular evaluation, helps ensure you’re receiving optimal value for your members and operations.

After all, effective risk transfer isn’t simply minimising premium cost. It’s about maximising protection for the community club you have built over the years. 

Next Steps: Evaluating Your Current Program 

If you haven’t reviewed your club’s insurance program recently beyond premium comparison, now might be the time to conduct a comprehensive value assessment. Consider scheduling a strategic review that examines coverage adequacy, adviser performance, claims handling, and alignment with your club’s future direction. 

Remember, the right insurance partner should help you navigate the complex risk landscape facing Australian clubs; from regulatory compliance and duty of care obligations to emerging risks like cyber threats and climate-related events. 

If you need help with your risk and insurance program, consider taking advantage of Clear Insurance’s no obligation risk and insurance review for clarity and peace of mind.