Journey cover insurance protects employees commuting to and from work, filling gaps left by workers compensation in most Australian states.

Journey cover insurance provides financial protection for employees who are injured while travelling to or from their regular place of work. It fills a critical gap in coverage created by reforms to workers compensation schemes in most Australian states, where commuting injuries are no longer covered.

This type of insurance is especially relevant in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland, where standard workers compensation excludes journey claims. Without journey cover, employees injured during their commute may face significant financial hardship, and employers may be exposed to reputational and legal risks.

Typical journey cover benefits include:

• Accidental death or permanent disablement
• Weekly income replacement (usually up to 85% of salary)
• Non-Medicare medical expenses (e.g. physiotherapy, dental)
• Fractured bones and rehabilitation costs
• Funeral expenses and family support
• Home or vehicle modifications due to disability

Coverage applies to direct travel between home and work, including minor detours for lunch or approved work-related activities. For example, if an employee is injured while picking up supplies for the office or attending a company-sanctioned training session, journey cover may apply.

Journey insurance complements corporate travel insurance, which typically only covers pre-approved business trips. It ensures employees are protected during their most routine and frequent travel—the daily commute.

For businesses, offering journey cover demonstrates a commitment to employee wellbeing and can enhance recruitment and retention. It also ensures consistent protection across multiple locations, especially where state-based workers compensation rules vary.

In short, journey cover is a practical and cost-effective way to safeguard staff and maintain operational continuity when the unexpected happens.