The reminder comes after a series of information sessions were held for South Coast estuary fishermen late last year, as part of efforts to improve and enhance safety in the industry.

“Commercial fishing can be a dangerous job,” Mr Constance said.

“It’s important that estuary fishermen are aware of the risks, and can adequately address them by having access to the right kind of safety equipment when carrying out their job.

The rebate allows fishers to claim up to $500 towards the cost of purchasing and installing eligible safety equipment, including Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), if they are operating as a sole trader or employ 50 or fewer employees and commercial estuarine fishing is their main business.”

To be eligible to claim this rebate, fishers must first schedule an advisory visit from a WorkCover officer.

“WorkCover advisory visits provide the opportunity for local commercial estuary fishermen to learn more about safe work practices and where they can go for assistance on how to improve safety,” Mr Constance said.

Eligible small fishing businesses (including sole traders) must also: * Hold a current commercial fishing licence with endorsements for estuary general fishery issued by the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

* Have a current active Australian Business Number (ABN) that states the ‘main business location’ as NSW, and

* Have a current active NSW workers compensation insurance policy (if they are an employer in NSW, who employs or hires workers).

Fishers must then select and implement an eligible safety solution listed on page one of the Estuarine fishing rebate application form.

Eligible items must be purchased after 1 December 2013.

Rebates do not cover GST, freight or insurance, second hand items or repairs and service.

Contact WorkCover on 13 10 50 for further information on the eligibility of businesses or safety items, and to find out about other rebate initiatives for businesses in NSW.