WorkCover workcover certificate: Why You Need One to Bid
What a WorkCover workcover certificate is, why so many tenders demand it, how to register with the workers' compensation scheme and get the letter, and how long it stays valid.
Watch the walkthrough · 1:21Check you qualify before you bidSee it done in the real dashboard, with a sample company.If you employ people and bid on tenders — especially where staff work on site — you will be asked for a WorkCover workcover certificate. Not having one is a common, avoidable disqualification.
What WorkCover and the letter are
WorkCover is the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act. Employers must register with the workers' compensation scheme and pay an annual assessment that covers employees injured at work. The workcover certificate is the Fund's confirmation that you are registered and your assessments are paid up — proof a buyer can rely on that your workers are covered.
Why tenders require it
Government will not hand a contract with on-site labour to an employer whose staff are not covered for workplace injury — the liability and reputational risk are too high. Construction, cleaning, security and facilities tenders almost always list it as a returnable.
How to get it
- Register as an employer with the workers' compensation scheme (Department of Employment and Labour)
- Submit your annual Return of Earnings and pay the assessment
- Request the workcover certificate once your account is up to date (the online CompEasy system handles registration and the letter)
Keep it current
A workcover certificate is time-limited (commonly valid for around 12 months or until your next assessment). An expired letter disqualifies a bid just like a missing one, so track its date.
Frequently asked questions
What is a WorkCover workcover certificate?+
It is confirmation from the workers' compensation scheme that you are registered under WorkCover and your assessments are paid up, proving your employees are covered for workplace injuries — a common tender returnable.
Do I need a workcover certificate for every tender?+
Mostly where you employ people, especially on-site work (construction, cleaning, security, facilities). The tender's returnables list tells you if it is required.
How do I get a WorkCover workcover certificate?+
Register as an employer with the workers' compensation scheme (Department of Employment and Labour), submit your Return of Earnings, pay the assessment, and request the letter — the CompEasy online system handles this.
How long is the letter valid?+
Typically around 12 months or until your next assessment. An expired letter disqualifies a bid, so renew it before it lapses.
How long does a WorkCover workcover certificate take?+
Once you are registered and contributions are paid, it can be issued fairly quickly through the CompEasy system, but registration itself often causes delays. Apply well before a tender closes.
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