Food Delivery Insurance In Australia: What You Need To Know

Australia’s appetite for takeaway has transformed cities and suburbs, putting a small army of food delivery drivers on the road every hour. Whether you’re dropping sushi across Sydney or burgers in Brisbane, platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash and Deliveroo have turned everyday vehicles into essential business tools. But with this convenience comes a surprising risk—most standard car insurance policies quietly shut the door on anyone using their car for “hire and reward” work, including food delivery.

It only takes one moment—a bump at a roundabout, an unexpected hailstorm, or a minor slip-up at the kerb—for a routine evening shift to become a financial headache. Stories of drivers facing denied claims and five-figure repair bills are all too common, often because they didn’t realise their personal cover wasn’t enough.

This guide will cut through the confusion and show you—step by step—how to protect yourself, your vehicle, and your income with the right food delivery insurance. From understanding the legal fine print and choosing the right cover, to maximising your tax deductions and knowing what to do if things go wrong, you’ll find practical advice tailored for Australian delivery drivers and businesses. Ready to keep your deliveries—and your livelihood—moving safely? Let’s get started.

Step 1: Understand why you need specialised food delivery insurance

Before you hit the road with a stack of meal orders, it’s crucial to recognise that using your car for food delivery falls under “commercial use”, not the “personal use” covered by a typical policy. Personal use—often called Social, Domestic & Pleasure (SD&P)—assumes errands, school runs and weekend drives, but it explicitly excludes any paid activity in return for transport. Once you start accepting delivery jobs, you’re in a different insurance category and need a policy designed for that purpose.

Most SD&P policies include exclusion clauses that strip away cover the minute you earn money through your vehicle. Driving uninsured for deliveries leaves you exposed to repair bills, medical expenses, legal costs and potential fines. If you cause an accident while delivering, you could be personally liable for damage to third-party property, injury claims from pedestrians or cyclists, plus your own vehicle repairs. In the worst case, one incident could lead to five-figure expenses out of your own pocket.

Even if you’ve never had a claim, insurers routinely check the purpose of your journeys. Failing to declare delivery work can void your policy and turn what seems like a minor prang into a major financial setback. That’s why specialist food delivery insurance—which combines SD&P cover with a Hire & Reward (H&R) extension—is the only safe option for anyone earning on platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash or Deliveroo.

Why standard car insurance may not cover delivery work

Many SD&P policies include wording along the lines of:

“This policy does not cover loss, damage or liability arising while the insured vehicle is being used for hire or reward.”

Common insurer disclaimers you’ll see include:

Exclusion of any “commercial use” or “hire and reward” activity
Requirement to notify the insurer if the vehicle’s primary use changes
Voidance of cover if the driver carries paying passengers or goods for a fee

Risks of driving for food delivery

Specialist cover exists because delivery work carries extra hazards:

Higher mileage: more time on the road increases accident exposure
Tight deadlines: rushing to meet delivery windows can lead to risky manoeuvres
Frequent stops: repeated acceleration and braking accelerate wear and tear
Unfamiliar roads: navigating new neighbourhoods raises the chance of collisions

On top of these, there’s public liability exposure if you inadvertently injure a pedestrian or damage property while making a drop-off.

Real-world examples of denied claims without proper cover

A contributor on r/CarsAustralia reported having an innocent kerb scrape while doing an Uber Eats run—and their insurer refused to pay because the app was active at the time. The driver faced a $4,500 repair bill for a broken bumper and headlight, plus a potential liability claim for property damage. Stories like this underline the importance of disclosing your delivery work and securing the right combination of SD&P + H&R cover before you start your shift.

Step 2: Identify the types of coverage required for food delivery drivers

Not all motor insurance is created equal. As a food delivery driver, you’ll need to blend different cover types to protect yourself on and off the clock. At the very least, you’ll combine a Social, Domestic & Pleasure (SD&P) policy with a Hire & Reward (H&R) extension. Beyond that, you can choose from Third-Party Only, Third-Party Fire & Theft or Fully Comprehensive options. Some drivers may also need optional Public Liability cover to safeguard against claims for injury or property damage.

Below is a quick overview of the main cover types:

Social, Domestic & Pleasure (SD&P) – standard personal use cover; excludes paid work
Hire & Reward (H&R) – extension for delivery or courier activities
Third-Party Only – pays for damage you cause to other people’s vehicles or property
Third-Party Fire & Theft – adds cover for your own vehicle if it’s stolen or catches fire
Fully Comprehensive – the broadest protection, covering damage to your vehicle and third parties
Public Liability (optional) – protects you if a member of the public is injured or property damaged during deliveries

Social, Domestic and Pleasure (SD&P) insurance

SD&P is the baseline car insurance policy for private drivers. It typically covers:

Loss or damage to your vehicle from events like collision, fire or theft
Liability for damage you cause to other vehicles and property (up to policy limits)
Personal injury cover for the driver and passengers

Why SD&P alone isn’t enough:

It expressly excludes “hire or reward” activities
Any claim arising while you’re delivering food will likely be denied
You must notify your insurer of any change in vehicle use

In short, SD&P sets the foundation, but it doesn’t protect you once the delivery app is running.

Hire and Reward (H&R) insurance

Hire & Reward policies bridge the gap between personal and commercial use. They let you carry goods or passengers for a fee—perfect for food delivery.

Key points:

Definition: Cover that kicks in once you’re earning money through your vehicle
Pay-as-you-go vs Fixed-term:
- Pay-as-you-go (hourly or daily): ideal for occasional shifts
- Fixed-term (30-day or annual): better for full-time or high-frequency drivers
Integration: Some insurers can upload your Certificate of Insurance automatically to platforms like Uber Eats

With H&R in place, insurers will handle claims arising from your deliveries rather than voiding them.

Third-Party Only vs Third-Party Fire & Theft vs Fully Comprehensive

Choosing between these levels affects your premium, your excess and the scope of cover. Here’s a simplified comparison:

Level of Cover	What’s Covered	Pros	Cons
Third-Party Only	Damage to others’ vehicles/property; injury claims	Lowest premium; meets legal minimum	No cover for your own vehicle damage
Third-Party Fire & Theft	Third-Party cover + your vehicle if stolen or fire	Adds basic protection for your car	No accident damage cover
Fully Comprehensive	Third-Party + Fire & Theft + accident damage cover	Best protection; includes windscreen	Highest premium; may have higher excess

Use this table to weigh up cost versus risk. If you rely heavily on your car to earn, Fully Comprehensive can save you thousands in repair costs after an accident.

Optional Public Liability insurance

While motor cover handles most road incidents, Public Liability protects you if a delivery activity off-vehicle injures someone or damages property—for example, if you slip with a hot meal on someone’s porch.

Consider adding Public Liability when:

You’re frequently delivering to cafes, offices or private residences
You use a bicycle, e-bike or scooter (higher chance of pedestrian interaction)
You want cover for legal defence costs in injury or property damage claims

Typical Public Liability policies offer limits from $5 million to $20 million, depending on the provider and premium. It’s a small extra cost for peace of mind when you step off the road and into someone’s doorway.

Step 3: Know your legal and safety obligations as a food delivery driver

Being a food delivery driver isn’t just about getting meals from A to B—it also means navigating a web of legal and safety requirements. Under Australia’s Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, duties fall on multiple parties to manage risk on roads, footpaths and inside premises. As a rider, understanding these obligations will help you avoid fines, reduce injuries and keep your insurance valid.

At the heart of WHS legislation is the concept of a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU). In food delivery, that includes the platform (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Deliveroo), the restaurant dispatching orders and you, the rider. Each must identify hazards, provide guidance and report incidents. For a detailed rundown, check the Safe Work NSW guide.

Work Health and Safety duties under NSW and national laws

Under the national WHS Act (and mirror laws in other states), parties share responsibility:

Platform (PCBU): assess delivery-related risks, issue safety instructions, maintain incident-reporting systems
Food Outlet: communicate site-specific hazards (busy loading zones, slippery floors) and safe handling procedures
Rider: follow safe work methods, report hazards promptly, cooperate with WHS processes

Food delivery is deemed “high risk” by SafeWork authorities because it combines vehicle operation with on-foot tasks in changing environments. This classification triggers stricter controls for everyone involved.

Training, competency and personal protective equipment (PPE)

Platforms and outlets must offer training—online or face-to-face—covering safe road use, correct order handling and emergency procedures. To stay compliant:

Complete all required induction or refresher courses and retain any certificates
Clarify any uncertainties about drop-off zones, traffic rules or loading protocols
Keep a copy of your training records; they can support your insurer if there’s an incident

Always use the right PPE:

Helmet compliant with Australian standards (for bikes, scooters or motorbikes)
Hi-vis vest or jacket with reflective tape
Front and rear lights plus side reflectors when riding at dusk or dawn
Closed-toe footwear with slip-resistant soles

Consistent use of PPE not only meets policy requirements but also strengthens your position if you need to make an insurance claim.

Licensing, registration and vehicle standards

Your vehicle must be properly licenced, registered and matched to your insurer’s records:

Hold the correct licence class—car, motorbike or e-bike—as required by state transport rules
Ensure registration details (including any delivery modifications like racks) align with your insurance declarations
Observe e-bike or e-scooter power and speed limits under local regulations

Failing to match your licence or registration to your declared vehicle use can void your cover. Always inform your insurer immediately of any changes to your licence status or vehicle setup to keep your policy rock-solid.

Step 4: Calculate your vehicle use and potential tax deductions

Running food deliveries isn’t just about insurance—it also means keeping on top of your tax obligations. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows delivery drivers to claim a portion of their vehicle expenses, but you’ll need reliable records to back up your deductions. Accurate tracking can put money back in your pocket and reduce your overall costs. To get started, check out the ATO’s guidance on car expenses for more detail: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/income-deductions-offsets-and-records/deductions-you-can-claim/cars-transport-and-travel/motor-vehicle-and-car-expenses/expenses-for-a-car-you-own-or-lease/.

Cents per kilometre method for deductions

The simplest way to claim motor vehicle expenses is the cents per kilometre method. You can use a flat rate—currently $0.78 per kilometre—for up to 5,000 business kilometres each financial year. No receipts are required, but you must be able to demonstrate how you worked out your kilometres.

Covers all vehicle costs: fuel, maintenance, registration, insurance and depreciation
Maximum claim: 5,000 km × $0.78 = $3,900

For example, if you drove 4,000 kilometres on delivery work in a year, your deduction would be:

4,000 km × $0.78 = $3,120

Just record your start and finish odometer readings for each delivery trip—handy notes in your phone or a simple spreadsheet will do.

Logbook method for actual expenses

If your delivery driving exceeds 5,000 km or you’d rather claim the exact costs, the logbook method is the way to go. You keep a continuous 12-week logbook that represents your typical usage, and that business-use percentage applies to all vehicle expenses for up to five years.

Key logbook requirements:

A continuous 12-week sample period, showing business and private trips
Trip details: date, odometer start and finish, trip purpose and kilometres travelled
Records must reflect your usual delivery work pattern

Once you finalise your logbook, calculate your business-use percentage:

Business kilometres ÷ Total kilometres = Business-use %

If your logbook shows 30% business use, you can claim 30% of your total costs for fuel, servicing, tyres, loan interest (if any), insurance and registration.

Other deductible expenses and record-keeping requirements

Beyond kilometres, several other outlays can be claimed—provided you keep the receipts:

Fuel and oil
Regular servicing and repairs
Tyres and brake pads
Registration and compulsory third-party insurance
Interest on a car loan (if the vehicle is financed)

Remember:

Hold digital or paper receipts for at least five years
Clearly label which expenses relate to your delivery business
Store your logbook, odometer readings and any platform reports in one place

Staying organised not only maximises your deductions but also ensures you’re ready if the ATO ever asks for proof. With the right records and the method that suits your situation, you’ll trim your tax bill and keep more of your delivery earnings in your pocket.

Step 5: Prepare your personal, vehicle and delivery platform information

Before you start comparing quotes or filling out an application form, gather all the essential information about yourself, your car and your delivery habits. Having these details at your fingertips will speed up the process, help insurers give you accurate pricing and reduce the chance of unexpected follow-up questions. It also ensures there are no gaps between what you declare and what you actually do—a mismatch here could invalidate your cover down the track.

Start by treating this like a checklist. Pull together your driver’s licence, any claims or incident records you have, and a summary of the apps you use and roughly how often. Then make sure you have the precise vehicle specifications, including any aftermarket modifications for delivery work. Once you’ve assembled everything, you’ll feel confident that you can move quickly through online forms or broker conversations without scrambling for missing data halfway through.

Vehicle details to have ready

Make, model and year: Exactly as shown on your registration papers.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Usually on the driver’s side dashboard or registration.
Registration plate: Confirm the letters and numbers match your insurer’s records.
Modifications: Delivery racks, insulated bags fitted permanently, or any aftermarket additions.
Odometer reading: A recent accurate reading to help calculate your annual kilometres.

Insurers use these details to verify your car’s age, value and the risk profile. Small errors—like mistyping your VIN—can delay quotes or trigger extra checks.

Driving history and claims history

Insurers look closely at your past behaviour on the road. Before requesting a quote, note:

Number of at-fault claims in the last five years.
Any recent speeding or parking fines—some providers may want to see how serious the offence was.
Claims-free periods—every year without a claim can reduce your premium.

If you had minor bumps or foul-weather damage, gather any repair invoices or insurer correspondence. Being upfront about a dent or two builds trust and prevents surprises when your insurer pulls a claims record.

Delivery platform and usage information

Your delivery habits can have a big impact on price. Be ready to specify:

Platforms you work with (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Deliveroo, etc.).
Average hours per week spent on deliveries.
Estimated annual or monthly kilometres driven for delivery versus personal use.
Peak times you’re most active (weekend nights, lunch hours).

Some insurers offer different rates for multi-platform drivers or those who drive only part-time. By giving a clear picture of your typical work pattern, you’ll receive quotes that truly reflect the risk you present—and avoid paying for cover you don’t need. When you’re ready, head to our courier quote page to get started.

Step 6: Compare insurance providers and policies

With your needs and budget in mind, the next step is to compare what different insurers offer. You’ll see a variety of policy structures, price points and extras—so knowing which features really matter can save you time and money. Focus on factors such as premiums, excess levels, coverage limits, available add-ons and the quality of claims support. Don’t be tempted to choose the cheapest option without checking whether it covers the real risks of food delivery.

Key features to compare across policies

Premium basis: Is it a pay-as-you-go rate (hourly or daily) or a fixed monthly/annual premium?
Excess amount: How much you’ll pay out-of-pocket before cover kicks in. You may reduce premiums by opting for a higher voluntary excess.
Coverage limits: Third-party, fire & theft or fully comprehensive? Check vehicle damage, third-party liability and optional public liability caps.
Add-ons and extras: Look for benefits like replacement vehicles, 24/7 towing, lifetime repair warranties or automatic app uploads.
Claims service: Fast, expert support can make or break your experience—ask about average turnaround times and preferred repairer networks.
Platform integration: Some insurers auto-upload your Certificate of Insurance to apps like Uber Eats, sparing you manual uploads.
Flexibility: Can you pause cover when you’re off duty? Are multi-platform drivers rewarded with lower rates?

Comparison table of top food delivery insurance providers

Provider	Policy types	Price range	Key benefits	Link
National Cover	Annual SD&P + H&R, Fully Comp.	Medium–High	Price-Beat Guarantee, ASIC-licensed pricing, replacement cars, 24/7 towing, streamlined claims	National Cover
Zego	Pay-as-you-go H&R; Combo (SD&P+H&R)	Low–Medium	Flexible hourly cover, app-based top-ups, multi-platform integration	Zego
Courier Cover	Annual H&R; optional liability	Medium	Fast online quotes, Australia-wide support, tailored courier cover	Courier Cover

Pros and cons of each provider

National Cover
- Pros: Comprehensive protection, unbeatable Price-Beat Guarantee, expert claims support and added perks like replacement cars.
- Cons: Annual policy only (no pay-as-you-go); higher premiums for low-usage drivers.
Zego
- Pros: True on-demand cover with pay-as-you-go rates, app control and seamless integration with major platforms.
- Cons: Requires you to work with approved partners; may need an existing SD&P policy for full protection.
Courier Cover
- Pros: Policies designed specifically for delivery use, quick quoting, plus public liability options at modest extra cost.
- Cons: Fixed-term cover only and manual document uploads; fewer premium-reducing extras compared to some competitors.

Step 7: Obtain and assess quotes for food delivery insurance

Once you’ve nailed down the cover types and gathered the details of your vehicle, driving history and delivery habits, it’s time to get actual quotes. You can either jump straight onto insurer websites and use their online quote tools or reach out to an insurance broker who specialises in gig-economy cover. Whichever route you choose, make sure you’re comparing like for like—same policy limits, same excess and the same delivery-use extension. Only then will you have a clear picture of which provider offers the best value and the right level of protection.

When seeking quotes, have your checklist (Step 5) to hand. Filling in precise data at the outset reduces follow-up questions and speeds up the process. Aim to collect at least three quotes: one from a mainstream insurer like National Cover, one from a pay-as-you-go specialist such as Zego, and one aimed squarely at couriers like Courier Cover. That way you can weigh up the differences in premium structure, policy flexibility and claims service before making a commitment.

Getting instant online quotes

Most food delivery insurers offer online quote forms that take five to ten minutes to complete. Here’s a typical workflow:

Visit the insurer’s quote page (for example, the National Cover rideshare or Courier Cover sites).
Select the policy type—hourly/daily cover for occasional shifts or annual cover for heavy use.
Enter your vehicle details: make, model, year, VIN and current odometer reading.
Specify your delivery platforms (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Deliveroo) and estimated hours or kilometres per week.
Review the provisional premium and excess options. You may be able to adjust voluntary excess to see how it affects cost.
Provide personal and licence details to lock in the quote.

Once you click through to finalise your quote, some insurers will hold the price for a few days or send a PDF for you to review. Save each document so you can compare side by side.

Questions to ask insurers before deciding

Before you commit, clarify key aspects of each policy:

Does cover automatically start and stop if you choose pay-as-you-go?
Is there a separate excess for delivery-related claims?
Will the insurer auto-upload your Certificate of Insurance to platforms like Uber Eats?
Are you covered on all the apps you use, or only the ones specified in your quote?
What happens if you switch between hourly and fixed-term cover mid-policy?
How quickly do they process claims, and do they work with a preferred repairer network?
Is there a cooling-off period if you change your mind?

These questions will highlight any hidden conditions or extra fees—critical if you need to make a claim mid-shift.

Tips to reduce your premium

A few simple adjustments can lower your ongoing cost:

Opt for a higher voluntary excess if you’re confident in your driving record.
Bundle your food delivery insurance with other policies (home, car or business) to unlock multi-policy discounts.
Take advantage of claims-free and safe-driver discounts by maintaining a clean record.
For occasional drivers, stick to pay-as-you-go cover instead of a full annual policy.
Specify secure parking or use an immobiliser to qualify for theft-reduction discounts.
Ask about instalment plans instead of one lump-sum payment—sometimes there’s a small fee but it can ease cash flow.

By shopping around, asking the right questions and applying available discounts, you’ll find a policy that safeguards your income without breaking the bank. Once you’ve chosen the best fit, you’ll be ready to set up your cover and stay protected on every delivery run.

Step 8: Purchase and set up your food delivery insurance policy

With your chosen quote in hand, the next step is to formally purchase your cover and ensure it’s correctly linked to your delivery work. This process usually involves completing an online application, paying your premium, and confirming that your insurer knows exactly how you use your vehicle. Skipping details or delaying setup can leave you driving unprotected—so let’s walk through each stage to get you fully covered.

Step-by-step application process

Select your policy
Head back to the insurer’s website (for example, National Cover’s rideshare insurance) and choose the exact cover type you compared in Step 7—whether it’s an annual SD&P + H&R policy or pay-as-you-go cover.
Complete the online form
You’ll be prompted for personal details, vehicle information (make, model, VIN, odometer reading) and your delivery habits (platforms, average hours/km). Double-check each entry to avoid delays.
Review premiums and excess options
Before you confirm, you may have the option to adjust your voluntary excess. Increasing the excess can reduce your premium, but remember it raises your out-of-pocket cost if you claim.
Upload supporting documents
Scan or photograph your driver’s licence, vehicle registration and any proof of no-claims history. Some insurers will require these at the point of purchase; having them ready speeds things up.
Make payment
Most insurers accept credit/debit cards or bank transfers. If you’re on an instalment plan, check for any administration fees before you finalise.
Receive your policy documents
Within minutes (or up to a few business hours), you should receive an email with your Certificate of Insurance (COI) and Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). Save these safe—both digitally and as a printed copy.

Disclosing your delivery work to the insurer

Honesty at purchase is vital. Insurers rely on the information you provide to assess risk and set premiums—if they discover undeclared delivery use after a claim, they may void your policy. When filling out the application:

List every platform you use (Uber Eats, Deliveroo, DoorDash, etc.), even if you only work a few hours on one app.
Estimate your weekly or annual kilometres as accurately as possible—undershooting your true use might mean underinsurance.
Declare any modifications (delivery racks, insulated boxes) so the insurer knows your vehicle’s true profile.

Being upfront avoids nasty surprises. If your delivery hours or platform choice changes significantly, get in touch with your insurer immediately to update your policy.

Linking your policy to delivery platforms

Most food delivery apps require proof of valid insurance before you can go online. Here’s how to get your COI in front of each platform:

Uber Eats & DoorDash
Log in to your partner dashboard, navigate to the “Documents” or “Vehicle Insurance” section and upload your latest COI PDF.
Deliveroo
Use the Deliveroo rider app or web portal to add your insurer’s name, policy number and an image of your COI.
Automatic uploads
Some insurers—including National Cover for certain platforms—offer direct integration. They’ll send your COI and policy dates straight to the app, so you never need to upload manually.

Check each platform’s help centre for exact steps, then verify that your insurance status is marked “Active” or “Verified” before you accept delivery requests. A quick test? Try going online without the app running—if the platform still shows you as insured, you’re good to go.

By following these steps, you’ll complete your application smoothly and ensure your policy is live when your next delivery shift begins. Up next, we’ll look at how to keep your cover up-to-date and what to do if the unexpected happens on the road.

Step 9: Maintain and update your policy throughout the year

Locking in the right food delivery cover is only half the battle—your circumstances and the market evolve, so your policy should as well. Regularly reviewing and updating your insurance will ensure you’re not under- or over-insured, avoid nasty surprises at claim time and capture every saving available.

Reviewing your policy before renewal

As renewal time approaches (often 30 days before your policy expiry), pause and run through a quick checklist:

Kilometres driven: Did you exceed initial estimates? If you’re well under or over your forecast, adjusting your annual distance can lower premiums or prevent underinsurance.
Platforms added or dropped: Started on a new app, or paused your busiest shift? Your insurer needs the current list of delivery services to calculate risk properly.
Vehicle changes: Upgraded to a newer model? Fitted new delivery racks or a larger insulated bag? Any modification or change in market value affects your cover.
Personal details: Moved house or changed your bank account details? Keeping your contact and payment information up to date avoids missed notices or inadvertent lapses.

A quick phone call to your insurer’s renewal team or a five-minute online form update keeps your policy aligned with reality and helps you spot ways to cut costs or add needed cover.

Updating insurers on changes to your delivery work

Life on the gig economy is flexible—and so should be your insurance. Whenever you change:

Vehicle use: Moving from part-time to full-time deliveries (or vice versa).
Delivery platforms: Adding DoorDash or pausing with Deliveroo.
Garage or parking situation: Shifting from secure off-street parking to public curbside.
Address or licence details: Any change to where or how you operate.

…reach out to your insurer straight away. Most providers let you update these details through a secure online portal or a quick chat with their support team. By proactively disclosing shifts in your delivery work, you reduce the risk of a declined claim and demonstrate good faith—often strengthening your position if you need to make a claim later.

Managing excess discounts and claims-free benefits

Insurance isn’t just about premiums; it’s about the extras you earn for safe driving and smart choices:

Voluntary excess adjustments: If you haven’t made a claim in a year, consider raising your excess slightly when you renew. The extra on-paper risk can translate into a noticeable discount.
Preferred repairer networks: Many insurers—including National Cover—offer an excess discount if you use their recommended repairers. Those repairers are vetted for quality, and you benefit from a lifetime warranty on workmanship.
Claims-free bonuses: Every year you drive without a claim can qualify you for a ‘no-claims’ credit. Keep an eye on your policy schedule to ensure it’s applied at renewal.
Replacement vehicle and towing perks: Check your policy summary for benefits like replacement cars on not-at-fault claims or 24/7 towing. If these perks aren’t included, ask whether you can add them—sometimes for a small fee, you gain major peace of mind.

By staying on top of excess levels, repairer choices and your claims record, you’ll enjoy both financial rewards and a smoother experience when you need support. A little proactive policy maintenance goes a long way to keeping your insurance working as hard as you do.

Step 10: What to do if you need to make a claim as a delivery driver

Even with the best preparation, accidents can still happen. Having a clear, step-by-step plan for making a claim ensures you minimise downtime, protect your earnings and get your vehicle back on the road quickly. Follow these guidelines to navigate the process smoothly and make the most of your food delivery insurance.

Immediate steps after an incident

Your first priority is safety. If anyone is injured, call 000 immediately. Once everyone’s out of harm’s way, switch off your engine and turn on hazard lights. Use your phone to:

Photograph the scene from multiple angles, capturing all vehicle damage, skid marks or road signs.
Note the position of all vehicles, weather conditions and any relevant street names or landmarks.
Record delivery-app activity—take a screenshot of your active shift or order history to show you were on the clock.
Exchange details with other parties: name, contact number, vehicle registration, insurer and policy number.

Keeping a written or voice-memo record of what happened and when will support your claim and speed up resolution.

Lodging a claim with your insurer

Notify your insurer as soon as possible—many require notification within 24 hours of an incident. With National Cover, you can lodge your claim via a dedicated claims email or online portal. Have these to hand:

Your policy number and the date and time of the incident.
A brief description of what happened, including who was involved and any police attendance or incident report number.
Photos and screenshots collected on site.
Any witness statements or contact details, if available.

Once you submit these details, you’ll receive a claim reference. Keep that number safe and use it in all further communications. Ask your insurer to confirm expected timelines for assessment, repair approvals and payment.

What to expect during the claims process

After lodgement, your insurer will assign a claims specialist to your case. Here’s what typically follows:

Assessment – An assessor may inspect your vehicle or review your photos to estimate repair costs.
Repair arrangements – If you use a preferred repairer network, work can begin quickly. National Cover guarantees a lifetime warranty on repairs undertaken by their approved workshops.
Replacement vehicle – For not-at-fault claims, you may be eligible for a loan car while yours is in the shop. Confirm your cover level when you lodge.
Excess and payment – You’ll pay any agreed excess once repairs are complete. The insurer will settle the balance directly with the repairer.
Closure – When repairs are done and all documentation is finalised, your claim is closed. Keep copies of invoices and correspondence for your records.

If you have questions or encounter delays, don’t hesitate to contact your claims specialist. Clear communication and prompt follow-ups will help resolve your claim efficiently, so you can get back to delivering without stress.

Your next steps

You’ve now got a clear roadmap for securing the right food delivery insurance. Here’s a quick recap of the 10 essential stages to keep you covered and compliant:

Understand why standard car insurance excludes “hire and reward” work.
Identify the mix of SD&P, H&R and optional covers you need.
Learn your legal safety obligations under WHS laws and platform rules.
Calculate your delivery kilometres and explore tax deductions.
Gather all personal, vehicle and delivery-platform details.
Compare policies on premiums, excesses, limits and extras.
Obtain at least three like-for-like quotes.
Purchase and link your policy correctly to each app.
Review and update your cover when your work pattern or vehicle changes.
Follow a clear claims process if the unexpected happens.

Now it’s over to you—don’t wait until a denied claim hits your wallet. Start comparing quotes today and lock in the cover that keeps your earnings (and your peace of mind) rolling. For competitive rates, hassle-free claims and our Price-Beat Guarantee, visit National Cover.