Why Every Aussie Tradie Needs Income Protection Insurance

As a tradie, your work is your livelihood. You rely on your hands, your back, and your physical strength to get the job done day in and day out. But what would happen if an accident, illness, or injury stopped you from working? For self-employed tradespeople, there’s often no employer sick leave or WorkCover to fall back on. That’s where income protection insurance comes in — your personal safety net when life doesn’t go to plan.

The Real Risks Tradies Face Every Day

Whether you’re scaling a roof, wiring up a building, or operating heavy machinery, being a tradie comes with daily risks. It’s one of the most physically demanding and dangerous professions in Australia. Common injuries include:

• Falls from ladders or scaffolding
  
  
• Power tool accidents
  
  
• Back strain from heavy lifting
  
  
• Burns or electrical shocks
  
  
• Long-term wear and tear on joints and muscles
  
  

Even a minor injury could mean days off work. A more serious one could sideline you for months, with no income to support yourself or your family.

Unlike salaried workers, self-employed tradies often don’t have paid sick leave, which makes the financial impact of an injury even more severe. This is why income protection insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have.

What is Income Protection Insurance?

Income protection insurance provides a regular payment, usually up to 75% of your income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. It’s like sick leave for the self-employed, helping you cover your living costs while you recover.

Depending on your policy, you can choose the benefit period (how long you receive payments) and the waiting period (how soon after your injury payments start). Policies are often customisable based on your trade and financial situation.

✅ Learn more: How Income Protection Works

Key Benefits for Self-Employed Tradespeople

Income protection insurance offers a range of benefits, especially tailored to tradies:

• Replaces up to 75% of your regular income if you can’t work
  
  
• Covers long recovery periods, including surgeries or chronic conditions
  
  
• Often tax-deductible, helping reduce your annual tax bill
  
  
• Supports your family, ensuring mortgage, rent, and bills are still paid
  
  
• Peace of mind, knowing you’ve got backup if things go wrong
  
  

Let’s face it you insure your tools, your ute, and your business. Why not protect your most valuable asset: your ability to earn?

How Tradies365 Simplifies the Process

We get it, sorting through insurance policies can feel overwhelming. That’s why Tradies365 does the hard work for you. We understand tradies and know that no two trades are the same. A plumber’s risks differ from a roofer’s, just as a chippy’s work differs from an electrician’s.

Tailored Plans for Every Trade

At Tradies365, we offer custom-built policies based on your profession, income, and coverage needs. Whether you’re a sole trader, contractor, or small business owner, we’ll match you with the right protection.

🔧 Explore more: Our Insurance Services

Hassle-Free Support

• Quick quote tools to get you started in minutes
  
  
• Expert insurance advisors who speak your language
  
  
• Help with claims, so you’re not left in the dark when you need support most
  
  

How Much Coverage Do You Need?

It all comes down to your finances. Ask yourself:

• How much do I earn monthly?
  
  
• What are my fixed expenses (mortgage, rent, car, groceries)?
  
  
• Do I have savings that could cover a few months off work?
  
  

Our team at Tradies365 can help you crunch the numbers and build a policy that fits. You don’t want to overpay, but you also don’t want to fall short when it matters most.

📞 Ready to get started? Visit our Get a Quote page today.

Conclusion

Being a tradie means being tough, hardworking, and hands-on. But even the toughest tradies can’t predict accidents or illness. That’s why income protection insurance should be part of every tradie’s toolkit. It protects your lifestyle, your loved ones, and your peace of mind.

Just like you wouldn’t head to the worksite without the right gear, don’t go through life without the right financial protection. Secure your future with Tradies365  because when you can’t work, your insurance should.

FAQs

How much does income protection insurance cost?

Costs vary depending on your age, health, trade, and coverage amount. Many plans start from just a few dollars a day less than your morning coffee.

Is income protection tax-deductible in Australia?

Yes. Premiums for income protection insurance are generally tax-deductible, but always check with your accountant for personal advice.

What is the waiting period before claims start?

Common waiting periods are 14, 30, or 90 days. A shorter wait means faster payments but slightly higher premiums.

Do I need medical tests to qualify?

It depends on your age, health history, and coverage amount. In many cases, a basic health questionnaire is all that’s needed.

Can I cover multiple trades under one policy?

Yes. If you work across trades, for example, carpentry and tiling, Tradies365 offers flexible policies that adapt to your work mix.