Supporting employers to protect their workforce
Register your business, understand your obligations, report workplace injuries and follow the compensation process with confidence.
Register as an employer
Every employer in Papua New Guinea must be registered and maintain workers compensation insurance for their employees under the Act.
New to OWC?
Download the Employer Registration Application (EMP-1) to begin.
- 01
Complete EMP-1
Lodge the Employer Registration Application with your business details.
- 02
Arrange insurance
Take out a workers compensation insurance policy as required by law.
- 03
Submit wage details
Provide your annual wages declaration for assessment.
- 04
Receive registration
Obtain your OWC employer registration confirmation.
Employer obligations under the Act
Meeting these obligations keeps your workers protected and your business compliant.
Maintain insurance
Hold a current workers compensation insurance policy for all workers.
Report injuries
Notify OWC of any workplace injury or illness within 7 days.
Keep records
Maintain accurate records of wages, injuries and compensation.
Display information
Make workers aware of their compensation rights.
Pay premiums
Keep policy premiums and wage declarations up to date.
Cooperate with OWC
Assist with the assessment and determination of claims.
Report an injury within 7 days
The law requires employers to notify the Office of Workers Compensation of any workplace injury, illness or death within seven (7) days of becoming aware of it.
Prompt reporting protects your worker's entitlements and helps ensure your claim is processed without delay.
What to report
- Date, time and location of the incident
- Nature and cause of the injury
- The worker's details and occupation
- Any first-aid or medical treatment given
- Names of any witnesses
From injury to determination
Understanding the process helps employers support their workers every step of the way.
Injury occurs
A worker is injured in the course of employment.
Employer notified
The worker reports the injury to the employer.
Report to OWC
Employer submits the Employer's Report of Injury (EMP-2) within 7 days.
Claim lodged
The worker (or employer on their behalf) lodges the claim.
Assessment
OWC reviews medical and employment evidence.
Determination & payment
Compensation is determined and paid in accordance with the Act.
Already registered?
Manage your reporting and access employer forms, or speak with our employer services team for tailored guidance.