Sunshine Coast Region, Queensland
Business Accountant in Nambour
Taking on the first worker, or the first contractor who counts as one
Payroll, super and employer compliance for Nambour trades and small businesses, from a CPA practice.
Nambour was the administrative centre of the former Maroochy Shire, a sugar town whose mill ran from 1897 to 2003. In the 2021 Census, Technicians and Trades Workers were the largest occupation group among its residents at 16.3%, and Labourers made up 15.0%. Taking on staff brings obligations that a business run by the owner alone doesn't have.
Nambour at work
The 2021 Census for the suburb.
The town sits at the base of the Blackall Range, 15.4 km west of Maroochydore, and was called Petrie's Creek until the railway opened in 1891. Among its 12,145 residents in 2021, Community and Personal Service Workers made up 15.9% of the employed, Professionals 15.1% and Clerical and Administrative Workers 11.3%. Hospitals, aged care and other social assistance services were the largest industries of employment.
Becoming an employer: three obligations
WorkCover for any worker
Why it happens
A business hires its first apprentice, labourer or office worker.
Why it matters
In Queensland, an employer who employs workers must insure them against work-related injury or illness with an accident insurance policy through WorkCover Queensland, under the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003. Policies renew each year, with wages declared at renewal, and there are penalties for having no policy or the wrong cover.
How we help
Meeting your obligations is easier with a steady process. Diary the WorkCover renewal date alongside your BAS dates.
Contractors who count as employees for super
Why it happens
A business engages a subcontractor who quotes an ABN but is paid by the hour to do the work personally.
Why it matters
A contractor paid under a contract that is mainly for their labour, meaning more than half the dollar value is for their personal labour, is treated as an employee for super guarantee purposes, even with an ABN. Super applies to the labour portion. Since 1 July 2026, that super must reach the fund within 7 business days after payday. The rule applies where the contract is with the individual, not with their company, trust or partnership.
How we help
Reliable books make better decisions possible. Keep a list of every contractor, what each contract covers and how each is paid.
Owners outside the policy
Why it happens
The business owner works on the tools alongside the staff.
Why it matters
Directors, sole traders, partners and trustees are generally not covered by the WorkCover accident insurance policy. They can take out optional personal injury cover.
How we help
The goal is to keep your affairs in order with minimal disruption to your day to day operations. Check with WorkCover Queensland what cover suits your role.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need WorkCover for one employee in Nambour?
Yes. Any Queensland employer who employs workers must hold an accident insurance policy for them.
Do I pay super for contractors?
If the contract is mainly for their labour and is with them as an individual, yes, on the labour portion, even if they have an ABN.
Am I covered by WorkCover as a director?
Generally not. Directors, sole traders, partners and trustees can take out optional personal injury cover.
Where to next
Main page
Business accountant on the Sunshine Coast
Nearby areas
- Business accountant in Tanawha
- Business accountant in Kunda Park
- Business accountant in Maroochydore
Related services
Get in touch
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Local expertise, tailored accounting solutions.
Lomandra Accounting is a CPA Practice, registered with the Tax Practitioners Board and an SMSF Specialist. Emma, the Director, is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) with extensive experience in commercial business management, and specialises in Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs).
- 07 5234 9201
- admin@lomandraa.com.au
- Sunshine Coast, QLD
- Monday to Friday, 9am to 4:30pm