Do you do CTP/Green Slips?

Yes - we are authorised agents of QBE and Allianz in relation to CTP/Green Slips in NSW.

As a start-up business, what cover do I need?

This depends on the type of business you are in. New insurance policies are being developed constantly as the world and the risks you face change. DKG Insurance Brokers undertake regular training and remain abreast of all developments within the industry, so they are well placed to regularly review your risk areas and advise accordingly.

How do I obtain a quote and how long does this take?

The duration of an insurance policy can vary depending on several factors, including the type of insurance, the insurer's processes and the specific terms and conditions of the policy. Typically, insurance policies can be issued and activated within a few days to a few weeks. However, more complex policies or those requiring additional underwriting may take longer to process.

Why should I use a broker instead of going direct with an insurance company?

As insurance brokers, our priority is to represent your interests at all times and to provide you with professional guidance in everything pertaining to your insurance in a market that is forever changing in premiums, product availability and policy conditions. Our team of Qualified Practising Insurance Brokers is trained to understand the differences between various policies and is often able to negotiate premiums that aren't available to you. In fact, some insurance policies are only available through intermediaries such as brokers. Our role as brokers is to source the most appropriate policies for your circumstances and to advise on the various areas of risk for you or your company.

What is a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)?

A Product Disclosure Statement or PDS should be provided to retail clients prior to them making a decision to purchase an insurance policy. The PDS is issued by the insurer and highlights significant information about the policy of which you should be aware. This includes information about the insurer, significant benefits and features, things that are not covered, significant risks and other important information. You should carefully read the PDS prior to making a decision about purchasing an insurance policy.

What is a Financial Services Guide (FSG)?

A Financial Services Guide (FSG) must be given to a potential client by a licensee (or an Authorised Representative) as soon as practicable. It sets out information in relation to how we do business such as documenting the standard basis on which we act for the client; providing all statutory notices; other information required by law (e.g. how we get paid); and explaining how we will handle a client’s business.

Marine liability insurance: are you leaving your business exposed?

Posted on: 29 July 2025

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Asset Protection

Business Insurance

Insurance Risk Management

Marine Liability Insurance

Marine Transit Insurance

Protection and Indemnity Cover

29 July 2025

In maritime operations, risk is constant and often underestimated. An oil spill or cargo dispute can lead to millions in clean-up costs, legal fees and damaged relationships. Yet many businesses still rely solely on marine transit insurance — coverage that protects cargo, not your legal liability.

Marine liability insurance is essential for safeguarding your business, reputation and financial stability. Whether you operate vessels, manage ports, repair ships or handle cargo, the right coverage helps protect you from unexpected and potentially devastating losses.

Why marine liability insurance cover matters

Marine liability protects against third-party legal liabilities that arise from operations, including:

Injury or death of crew, passengers or third parties.
Cargo loss or damage during handling or transit.
Pollution and environmental damage, including oil spills.
Collision liabilities and wreck removal, often mandated by law.
Damage to marine infrastructure such as ports, piers and terminals.
Legal defence costs and environmental penalties.

“Many maritime operators underestimate the scale and complexity of liability risks. The financial fallout from incidents such as cargo loss, oil spills or personal injury can escalate into multi-million-dollar claims, regulatory penalties and long-term reputational damage,” says Jay Freeman, Senior Mid-Market and Corporate Insurance Broker at DKG.

Common gaps that leave operators exposed

Transit insurance does not protect liability
Marine transit policies cover goods only. If you are held legally responsible for cargo damage, pollution or contractual breaches, you need policies such as Charterer’s Liability or Marine General Liability (MGL).

Protection and Indemnity (P&I) policies cover far more than oil spills
P&I is the cornerstone of marine liability. It covers crew injury, passenger claims, pollution, wreck removal, fines and penalties. These policies are bespoke and ensuring the right limits and extensions is critical.

Specialised liability policies close operational risks

The right mix depends on your business:

Tug and towage operators require Towage Liability for damage to towed vessels, wreck removal and third-party injury.
Freight forwarders need liability cover for cargo loss, documentation errors and customs penalties.
Ports and terminals require Stevedores’ Liability and Terminal Operators’ Liability for handling errors, storage damage and environmental risks.
Repair yards should have Ship Repairers’ Liability to protect against vessel damage, third-party injury and pollution from maintenance work.
Marinas and boatyards need Marina Operators’ Liability for vessel damage, injuries and waste-related pollution.
Passenger operators require Crew and Passenger Liability to cover injury, illness, repatriation, baggage loss and delay claims.

Legal requirements are tightening

Pollution Liability and Wreck Removal Liability are mandated under international conventions such as MARPOL and the Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention. Many ports now demand proof of these covers before allowing operations.

“Seven-figure clean-up and salvage costs after a single incident aren’t uncommon. The right liability cover isn’t just compliance, it’s survival,” says Rouen van Eck, Executive General Manager, Insurance/Risk/Strategy at DKG.

A scenario to consider

A tug operator misjudges a manoeuvre. A towed vessel strikes a jetty, sinks and leaks oil into the harbour. Without Towage Liability and Pollution Liability, the operator could be personally responsible for repair costs, environmental clean-up and legal defence.

Is your cover fit for purpose?

If your business faced a pollution incident or cargo claim tomorrow, would your current insurance program provide adequate protection?

To safeguard your business, a marine liability insurance program must be tailored to your specific activities, bridging the gap between basic coverage and the complex risks inherent in maritime operations.

Next steps

Need clarity around your marine liability insurance? Let’s have that conversation. Rouen, Jay and the DKG team are ready to help you prepare, not just protect. Contact DKG Insurance Brokers today to review your D&O coverage by calling us today on 1800 252 926 or email us at insurance@dkg.com.au.

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