Farming properties aren’t just places of business—they’re often homes, workplaces and open environments where suppliers, contractors, visitors or even trespassers might enter. But what happens if someone is injured while on your farm?

Whether it’s a delivery driver slipping on a wet surface, a contractor hurt by machinery, or someone injured by livestock near a boundary fence, incidents like these can result in serious legal and financial consequences. That’s where public liability insurance becomes essential.

Why liability risk matters

In today’s legal environment, claims for personal injury or property damage can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Farmers and rural business owners are increasingly finding themselves the subject of claims—not always because they did something wrong, but simply because they were the occupier of the property where an incident occurred.

Even if a claim is unfounded, the cost of defending yourself in court can be significant.

Common liability risks on farms

Liability exposures vary from farm to farm, but here are some typical scenarios:

• Visitors tripping, slipping or falling due to uneven ground, poor lighting or wet conditions

• Livestock straying onto roads and causing motor vehicle accidents

• Contractors or workers injured while undertaking tasks on your property

• Chemicals or water runoff causing damage to neighbouring properties

• Children or unauthorised persons wandering onto your property and getting hurt, even if they were trespassing

If someone suffers injury or damage and alleges you were negligent, you could be liable for compensation—plus legal costs.

What does public liability insurance cover?

Public liability insurance is typically designed to cover:

• Injury to third parties

• Damage to third-party property

• Legal defence costs

• Settlements or compensation payouts

It usually applies to incidents that occur in connection with your business or property, whether you’re directly involved or not.

For farmers, it’s especially important that your liability cover is tailored to agricultural risks. A generic business policy may not provide the right protection.

Ways to reduce liability risk

While insurance can protect your finances, preventing incidents in the first place is even better. Here are a few strategies:

• Keep driveways, walkways and work areas clear and well-maintained

• Display signage to warn of hazards like electric fences, chemical storage or machinery

• Ensure all gates and fences are secure, especially on boundaries adjoining roads

• Use written contracts with contractors and agistment providers, clarifying responsibilities

• Have a visitor log and induction process, especially for contractors or tradespeople

• Regularly inspect your property for new risks or hazards, especially after storms or heavy use

Insurance is your safety net

No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen. Public liability insurance can provide a financial safety net—helping you meet your legal obligations and protect your personal and business assets.

Without it, a serious claim could force you to sell assets or take on debt to cover legal costs or compensation.

Talk to a local who understands

At Western General Insurance Brokers, we understand the realities of rural life. Based in Horsham, we’re locals too—and we know that one-size-fits-all doesn’t work when it comes to farm and business insurance.

Contact us, we’ll take the time to understand your property and operations, and ensure your liability cover reflects the real risks you face.

The information in this article is of a general nature only and has been prepared without taking into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consult a qualified insurance adviser before making any decisions regarding insurance products.