Insurance Explained
Internship Insurance Simplified:
Navigating insurance, especially in the context of internships, can be quite complex. To provide clarity, we’ve outlined various insurance terms relevant to interns and clarified whose responsibility it is for each category:
Intern’s Responsibility:
- Personal Liability Insurance:
- Covers interns if they are found legally responsible for causing personal injury to a third party or damaging their property, including that of the host company.
- Note: Personal Liability coverage is mandatory for every intern.
- Medical Insurance:
- This category straightforwardly addresses medical expenses incurred by an individual.
- Australian resident interns will be covered for medical expenses through Medicare.
- For non-Medicare eligible interns, it is strongly advised to acquire sufficient medical insurance. Please be aware that mental health issues and pre-existing injuries or illnesses are typically not covered.
- Baggage Insurance:
- Offers financial protection for lost, stolen, or damaged items, including baggage.
- It is recommended to review the insurance policy for a comprehensive list of covered items, as certain items may be excluded in specific cases.
Company’s Responsibility:
- Public Liability:
- Tailored for companies and professionals interacting with customers or the public, safeguarding against claims of personal injury or property damage a third party alleges to have suffered due to business activities.
Coverage Not Required:
- Professional Indemnity Insurance:
- Geared towards companies providing advice or services to customers, offering protection against legal costs and damages claims stemming from erroneous advice.
- Typically used by professionals like lawyers, tax consultants, architects, engineers, trustees, doctors, and translators. Its purpose is to shield the assets and reputation of the company/professional, covering not only the business but also any principal, employee, director, partner, or affiliated entity operating within the same scope.
- Note: Interns should not provide services or advice to clients or customers. They must be under constant supervision and monitoring.
- Workers Compensation:
- This is a form of insurance payment provided to employees in the event of a work-related injury or illness.
- It encompasses payments to cover lost wages during the period of inability to work, as well as medical expenses and rehabilitation.
- Note: Interns are not classified as employees, do not receive a wage, and therefore, are not eligible for workers’ compensation.
Additional Considerations:
- Visa Requirements:
- Ensure you have the appropriate visa for your internship in compliance with local regulations.
- Confidentiality Agreements:
- Be prepared to sign confidentiality agreements if required by the host company, especially if you’ll have access to sensitive information.
- Health and Safety Guidelines:
- Comply with all health and safety regulations outlined by the host company. Report any unsafe conditions or incidents promptly.
- Cultural Sensitivity:
- Foster a culturally inclusive environment where interns feel welcomed and respected.
- Feedback and Evaluation:
- Expect constructive feedback on your performance. Consider mid-term and final evaluations to track progress.
- Emergency Procedures:
- Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and exit routes. Know whom to contact in case of an emergency.
Remember, open communication and a positive work environment contribute significantly to a successful internship experience for both interns and host companies.
Our Service:
Internships Down Under facilitates insurance arrangements for interns undertaking placements in Australia. To find out more and apply, click the button below.
