What is the Insurance Levy?
The levy collects 1% of prize money winnings on all TAB races with a goal to use the money to support Queensland trainers in funding rising WorkCover premiums, contribute towards trainers' public liability insurance (RQ funded), support improved WHS practices, and assist in the management of WorkCover claims. Ultimately, the levy seeks to support trainers while encouraging a reduction in insurance claims through WHS support to prevent claims and claims management to efficiently manage claims.
How long will the Insurance Levy run?
The Insurance Levy was introduced on 1 January 2024 and will run for an initial trial period until 30 June 2025 (18 months).
Am I eligible to benefit from the levy?
If you are a licensed Queensland trainer, you will benefit from the insurance levy through the following:
- Trainers with WorkCover policies will receive a maximum of 30% of the premium reimbursed, representing approximately 80% of the total levy distribution.
- Racing Queensland’s continued funding of trainer public liability insurance through a partial subsidy from this levy (10% of levy).
- Access to improved WHS resources.
How much will I receive?
80% of the insurance levy has been allocated to the reimbursement pool. Eligible trainers will receive the percentage of their premium as a percentage of the total value of premiums submitted. The maximum amount a trainer can receive is 30% of their total premium. Amounts above 30% will be provided back into initiatives that support the wider pool of trainers, including supporting the subsidy of the public liability premium, WHS initiatives, and claims management support. This is to ensure a fairer distribution across the whole trainer group.
The assessment of the reimbursement is at RQ’s discretion, and the amount RQ assesses is final.
When will my reimbursement be paid if I am eligible?
On the 31st October 2024, RQ proudly distributed approximately $730,000 in payments to eligible QLD Thoroughbred Trainers in its first year of the Levy. Payments are paid via a direct deposit into their banking account on file with Racing Queensland. If this information has recently changed, please contact RQ accounts receivable on team: ar@racingqueensland.com.au.
How do I receive the reimbursement for 2024-2025 financial year?
To be eligible for the reimbursement for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025, trainers must:
- Provide to RQ proof of payment of the 2024/25 WCQ premium. Proof of payment is in the form of a receipt from WCQ detailing full payment.
- Provide a full copy of the 2025/26 WCQ premium notice, detailing the actual premium paid for the year 2024/25. This premium notice will be issued upon renewal of the WC policy for the 2025/26 financial year, issued around August each year.
- Submit a renewed Letter of Authority in the approved format to act on behalf of the trainer.
- Provide a statutory declaration of truthfulness and accuracy.
- Report all incidents and lodge their incident reports to RQ.
- Complete any RQ WHS resources (e.g., induction, WHS training resources).
- Submit this information before 30 September 2025.
Who can I talk to about any questions I may have?
If you have questions, please reach out via the following: