Whether you need your own insurance will generally depend on whether you are an employee or an independent contractor.

If you are directly employed by a council or planning body, its insurance arrangements may protect you for work performed within the scope of your employment. However, this should not be assumed. You should confirm the position with your employer, particularly if you hold personal statutory responsibilities or perform work outside your normal duties.

You may need your own insurance if you:

• Operate through your own business or ABN.
• Invoice the council or planning body for your services.
• Work under a consulting or contractor agreement.
• Accept responsibility for your own professional advice.
• Provide services to other clients.
• Undertake private consulting or other work outside your employment.

Councils, government agencies and principal contractors may require consultants to maintain their own Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance. The contract may also specify minimum limits, policy conditions and how long the cover must be maintained.

Before accepting a consulting engagement or beginning work, review the contract and confirm whether you are relying on the organisation’s insurance or arranging your own.

For independent contractors and consultants, Webber Insurance has a specialist insurance facility for Town Planners. Eligibility, available cover and policy terms remain subject to insurer acceptance and underwriting.

Learn more about Town Planner Insurance, contact your usual Webber Insurance broker or call 1300 932 237.