Why this matters 

If a P&C employs staff, it has a legal obligation to hold workers’ compensation insurance and meet its responsibilities.  

Workers' compensation is not optional. It exists to protect employees who are injured at work and to protect employers and P&C committee members from personal liability. 

These obligations sit with the P&C as the employer. They do not sit with the school or the Education Directorate. 

When workers’ compensation applies 

Workers' compensation obligations apply when a P&C: 

• employs staff directly 
• pays wages or salaries 
• engages people as employees (including part-time or casual staff) 

If your P&C employs people, workers compensation requirements apply, regardless of: 

• the size of the P&C 
• the number of employees 
• whether staff work on school grounds 

What P&Cs need to do 

Rather than interpreting the law themselves, P&Cs should ensure they: 

• understand their obligations as an employer 
• have appropriate workers’ compensation insurance in place 
• meet any reporting or compliance requirements 
• seek advice if they are unsure 

Getting this wrong can expose the association and its committee to significant risk. 

Where to get official advice 

Authoritative, up-to-date information about workers’ compensation obligations is available from Worksafe ACT.  

P&Cs should always rely on official sources or professional advice when managing workers compensation obligations. 

Related resources 

• Employing staff: what P&Cs need to know 
• Insurance and risk 
• Managing canteen services 
• OSHC and other services 

Good practice tip 

Confirm insurance coverage before staff commence work.