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Public liability insurance for events: when you need it and how much
Hold an event in a council park and you will probably be asked for a $20 million public liability certificate. Here is when it applies and what it means.
By Claire Dunmore · 2 min read
Public liability insurance covers you if someone is injured, or their property is damaged, because of your event. For a private party at home, ask your home and contents insurer what your policy covers. An event in a public place, or one run by a business or a club, is a different matter.
What councils ask for
Councils commonly set $20 million as the cover they want to see for events on their land.
- Brisbane City Council says that to book a park site for a large event or activity you need to provide management plans, including waste, noise, traffic, first aid and evacuation plans, and "a Certificate of Currency for Public Liability Insurance to the value of $20 million". It asks for applications at least five working days before the event.
- Yarra City Council in Melbourne says an event that needs an event permit typically needs $20 million of public liability cover, depending on things like alcohol and larger structures, and that companies and organisations must have their own policy.
Marquees, stages and hired gear
Larger structures are exactly what raises a council's risk rating. If you are putting up a marquee, a stage or a dance floor in a public place, tell the council when you apply. If the council or venue asks, request a certificate of currency from any hire company that installs equipment.
Before you book
- Read the council's or venue's event page for its own rules; they differ.
- Ask your insurer whether your event is covered, and get the certificate in writing.
- Keep a copy of every hire company's terms, including who is responsible for damage to hired items.