Does online business insurance cover me for sales to customers in the US and Canada?

No, most standard Australian business insurance policies exclude claims originating in the United States and Canada unless you specifically add a worldwide extension. You must notify your insurer if you sell to North American markets because the high litigation costs in these regions require specialised coverage and higher premiums.

Am I covered if my online business is run from a home office?

No, standard residential home and contents insurance policies typically exclude business-related equipment and liability. You generally need a separate business insurance policy or a specific home-based business extension to ensure your work laptop, stock and professional liability are protected while operating from a residential address.

Does insurance cover my stock if it is held in a third-party fulfilment centre?

Yes, stock held in a third-party warehouse or fulfilment centre can be covered if the location is specifically declared in your policy. General business insurance usually only covers stock at your primary registered address, so you must inform your provider about off-site storage to ensure items are protected against fire, theft or damage.

Do I need product liability insurance if I use a dropshipping model?

Yes, you still need product liability insurance because under Australian Consumer Law you can be held responsible for faulty products even if you do not manufacture or ship them yourself. If the manufacturer is located overseas, you are often legally treated as the manufacturer in the eyes of the consumer, making you the primary target for liability claims.

Is cyber insurance automatically included in online business insurance packages?

No, cyber insurance is usually an optional add-on and is rarely included in a standard public or professional liability policy. You must specifically select cyber cover to protect your business against the costs of data breaches, ransomware attacks and mandatory notification requirements under the Privacy Act.

Can I claim for lost revenue if my website server goes down?

Yes, you can claim for lost revenue if you have business interruption insurance that includes coverage for utility failure or cyber events. This cover helps bridge the gap in income if a technical failure or cyberattack prevents your website from processing orders for an extended period.