The unsustainable massive increases in WorkCover premiums for commercial fishing operators has been raised in State Parliament.

Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, said while the increases impacted many sectors, commercial fishing was one of the hardest hit, and he has called for a stop to the escalation. He explained one situation to State Parliament.

“I provide one example of commercial operator. Their WorkCover premium in 2022–23 was $4,178.

“Then in 2023–24 it rose to $13,057 – a massive $8,878 increase from the previous year.

“If that wasn’t enough, in 2024–25 it rose to $15,674 – another $2,617 increase.

“But here comes the killer. This year (2025/26) it is $24,078 – another $8,404 increase. That is a 476% increase in four years,” said Mr Bull.

“How are businesses like these expected to survive these sorts of upsurges?

“The government has previously defended premium rises as being influenced by industry claim performance. However, in 2024 the Australian Maritime Safety Authority reported a 7.9% reduction in marine safety concerns and the fishing sector also recorded a reduction in incidents.

“So, what I am seeking from you Minister is if you will both review this latest increase and also ensure the sector will not be hit with any more massive rises.”

The Minister has one month to respond to the question.

Caption: Gippsland East Nationals’ MP, Tim Bull, has asked for a review of the massive increases in WorkCover premiums for the commercial fishing sector.

11 August 2025