ACT Parents offers access to a group insurance policy for P&C members through Civic Insurance. This insurance is designed to support P&Cs in carrying out their activities and to help manage some of the risks that come with being a volunteer-run association. 

This resource explains what this insurance is for, how it fits into good governance, and where to go for detailed information. 

Why insurance matters for P&Cs 

P&Cs: 

• organise events and fundraising activities 
• work with volunteers and, in some cases, employees 
• manage money and assets 
• make decisions on behalf of their school community 

Insurance helps manage the financial impact of certain risks, but it does not remove a P&C’s responsibility to act carefully, follow proper processes and comply with its obligations. 

Insurance available through ACT Parents 

P&C members can access insurance through Civic Insurance as part of a group policy negotiated for ACT Parents members. 

This group arrangement: 

• is tailored to typical P&C activities 
• provides consistent cover across members 
• offers a significant discount compared to standalone policies 

The specific cover provided, including limits, exclusions and conditions, is set out in the policy documents. 

What this insurance does (and doesn’t) do 

Insurance can help: 

• protect the association against certain claims 
• provide confidence to volunteers 
• support P&Cs to operate responsibly 

Insurance does not: 

• replace good governance and risk management 
• cover activities outside the scope of the policy 
• remove the need to follow school, legal or regulatory requirements 

P&Cs should always consider risk as part of decision-making, even where insurance is in place. 

Understanding your cover 

Insurance policies can be complex, and coverage can vary depending on: 

• the type of activity 
• how the activity is run 
• whether conditions have been met 

For this reason, Civic Insurance is the source for: 

• confirming what is covered  
• understanding exclusions or limits (that may be excluded from cover or invalidate the P&Cs policy) 
• checking whether a proposed activity falls within the policy 

ACT Parents does not provide advice on policy interpretation. 

When to check your insurance 

It’s a good idea to check your insurance cover: 

• when planning a new or unusual activity 
• before events or fundraisers 
• if the way your P&C operates changes 
• if you’re unsure whether something is covered 

Checking early can prevent problems later. 

How to access information and support 

Affiliated P&Cs can contact Civic Insurance directly for: 

• policy documents 
• clarification of cover 
• advice about specific activities 

ACT Parents can help you: 

• understand how insurance fits into broader risk management 
• identify when it’s appropriate to seek advice from the broker 

Insurance is part of a bigger picture 

Insurance is one element of managing risk. It works best when combined with: 

• clear decision-making processes 
• good record keeping 
• appropriate supervision 
• realistic assessment of what a volunteer-run association can take on 

Choosing not to proceed with an activity where risks can’t be managed is a valid governance decision. 

Related resources 

• Insurance and risk 
• Managing P&C money and risk 
• Fundraising and income 
• Managing canteen services 
• OSHC and other services 

Need a hand? We’re here to help.