If you are a small business owner in Australia and you employ apprentices, it is important that you understand why workers compensation Insurance is so important. 

In fact, if you have an apprentice working for your business and they are injured while on the job, it will be your responsibility to pay any medical bills that they incur as well as any lost wages.

If you are not insured with workers comp Insurance, it means that you would be responsible for these costs yourself and this could have a severe impact on your finances.

The good news is that there are many insurance companies in Australia that offer workers compensation insurance and this includes businesses that employ apprentices.

Here are three reasons why every small business needs workers compensation insurance:

1. Apprentices Are Covered By The Same Rules As Regular Employees

Some employers believe that apprentices are covered under different rules or regulations when it comes to workers compensation insurance, but this isn't the case. As long as they're employed by the company, apprentices are covered under the same rules as other employees and must be included in any policies that are put in place for employees. Any policies should also include any other people who are working under your supervision or direction for the purposes of training or education purposes, such as trainees or interns.

2. Apprentices Can Pose Additional Risks 

Apprenticeships are considered long-term training programs. Apprentices can spend a few years earning their credentials, which means they're more likely to be performing regular duties on the job site instead of just observing and learning. This increases the chances of injury while performing tasks that may not be part of their official apprenticeship program.

Many apprentices work under the supervision of someone with more experience — an experienced tradesperson or supervisor who's helping them learn the ropes. But what happens if that person is injured on the job? In some cases, other employees might step in and help out until someone else can take over from them until they're able to return to work themselves. However, this could create additional hazards for everyone involved because there is now more than one employee at potential risk.

3. Workers Compensation Insurance Protects You From Legal Action

If an apprentice gets hurt at work and requires medical treatment, they have the right to sue you for any damages incurred as a result of the accident. If they do not receive appropriate care or compensation, they may sue you for negligence and seek financial reparation for their injuries. This can be costly and time-consuming for both parties and put your business at risk if the apprentice wins their case. Workers compensation insurance protects against such claims by providing cover for any injury sustained while working under your supervision.

Chat with an insurance agent to find out more about workers compensation insurance.