Sole trader insurance for one-person businesses
As a sole trader, there's no company structure between you and a claim. If something goes wrong, your personal assets could be at risk. Whether you're a tradie, consultant, mobile service provider or freelancer, the right insurance protects your income, your equipment and your peace of mind.
Risks sole traders face
- Claims for injury or property damage caused by your work
- Clients claiming your advice or service cost them money
- Laptops, tools or equipment stolen or damaged
- Your vehicle being off the road
- Losing client data in a cyber attack
- Personal liability because there's no company structure
What sole trader insurance usually includes
Public Liability Insurance
Essential for anyone working on client premises or with the public.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
For sole traders who give advice or provide a professional service.
Business Package Insurance
For portable equipment, tools, stock and home-based business contents.
What to check before you buy
Home and contents policies often exclude or heavily limit business equipment and business liability, so working from home doesn't mean you're covered. Also think about what happens if you can't work: personal covers such as income protection are arranged separately through a life insurance adviser, but they're worth considering alongside your business insurance.
Why work with a broker?
Policies that look similar on price can differ a great deal in what they pay for. As your broker, we act on your behalf: we ask the right questions about your business, compare options, explain the fine print in plain language and support you through any claim, wherever you are in Australia.
Common questions
Do sole traders need insurance?
It isn't always compulsory, but sole traders are personally liable for their business debts and claims. Public liability is often required by clients, and PI is essential if you give advice.
Is a sole trader covered by home insurance?
Generally not for business activities. Home policies usually limit or exclude business equipment and don't cover business liability.
How much does sole trader insurance cost?
It depends on your occupation, turnover and the covers you choose. Many sole traders can get public liability at an affordable premium, and we'll compare options for you.
Should I set up a company instead of being a sole trader?
Business structure is a legal and tax decision, so speak with your accountant or lawyer about what suits you. Whichever structure you choose, you’ll still need insurance, and we can adjust your policies if your structure changes.
Can I pay my insurance monthly?
Many insurers and premium funders offer monthly payment options, sometimes with a small fee or interest charge. Spreading the cost can make it easier to manage cash flow when you’re running a business on your own.
How to get a quote
Getting a quote for your business is simple, and there is no obligation. Call Carly on 0497 100 469 or send an email with your business name and ABN, a short description of what you do, your approximate turnover and number of staff, a copy of your current policy schedule if you have one, and details of any claims in the last five years.
If your contracts or lease set specific insurance requirements, send those too.
We will ask a few questions about your operations, approach suitable insurers on your behalf and come back with options explained in plain language, including what is and isn’t covered. Once you choose, we arrange your cover and send your documents, then review it with you at every renewal so your insurance keeps pace with your business.
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