Do arborists need insurance to work on council jobs in Australia?

Yes, most councils and commercial sites will ask for proof of Public Liability insurance before you can start. Many expect at least $10 million in cover and specific wording on your Certificate of Currency. Without it, you could miss out on the job.

Can I still get arborist insurance cover if I’ve had past claims?

You can, but it might cost a bit more. Insurers look at your history when pricing. A good broker can help explain the full picture and find a fairer deal.

Is $5 million Public Liability enough?

Sometimes. For backyard pruning, it might be fine. But if you’re working near traffic, powerlines, or on council jobs, most want $10 or $20 million. Better to go higher than get knocked back on a tender.

What paperwork do I need to prove I’m covered?

A Certificate of Currency. It shows your cover amount, policy number, insurer, and the dates. Some clients might ask for extra wording or to be listed on the doc, especially councils.

Is arborist insurance tax deductible?

Yes, usually. Most business-related insurance premiums, like Public Liability, Tools, and Vehicle cover, can be claimed at tax time. Always worth double-checking with your accountant.

News

Team Member Spotlight: Luke Feeney

John Elliott

January 28 2026

Insurance Insights That Matter

Reach out to All trades Cover for any questions or support you may need.

Call Us Today

We’re excited to welcome Luke Feeney to the team at All Trades Cover, where he joins our expert group dedicated to supporting trades and construction professionals across Australia.

A Career Built on Experience and Perspective

Luke brings a wealth of experience to the role, having entered the insurance industry at just 20 years old. Since then, he’s built a diverse career spanning general insurance, life insurance, and financial planning, giving him a broad and well-rounded understanding of how to protect what matters most, both personally and professionally.

Luke’s journey hasn’t been a typical one. For five years, he served as a pastor and preacher, dedicating his time to helping people not only find the right insurance cover but also direction in life. That same passion for people continues to guide the way he works with clients today.

Family, Faith, and What Matters Most

Luke met his wife, Natasha, at work over 20 years ago. They now have four wonderful children together. Family, faith, and finding the right solutions for clients are central to everything Luke does, both inside and outside of work.

Specialist Support for Trades and Construction

At All Trades Cover, Luke specialises in Liability, Professional Indemnity, and Contract Works Insurance. His deep expertise helps tradies, builders, and subcontractors navigate complex insurance needs with confidence and clarity.

Welcome to the team, Luke. We’re proud to have you onboard!

John Elliott

John Elliott is the driving force behind All Trades Cover. With 20+ years in the insurance industry, John set out to make insurance simple, fast, and stress-free for tradies – and he has done just that. His mission: take the hassle out of cover so tradies can get on with the job.

Read What John Has to Say

John’s blogs are written with one goal in mind—helping tradies like you stay protected without headaches. Whether it’s tips to save on premiums, understanding your cover, or staying ahead of industry changes, he breaks it all down in plain English so you can make confident decisions about your insurance.

News Team Member Spotlight: Luke Feeney