A Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claim can provide a significant lump sum payment if injury or illness means you are unable to return to work — either in your own occupation, or in any occupation you're reasonably suited for, depending on your policy's definition.
Here's what many Australians don't realise: most people hold TPD insurance automatically through their superannuation fund, often without ever choosing it or being aware it exists. And because most of us change jobs — and therefore super funds — multiple times over a career, it's common to hold more than one TPD policy across more than one fund at the same time.
What Counts as "Total and Permanent Disability"?
Every super fund and insurer defines TPD slightly differently, but claims generally fall into two broad categories:
- Own occupation — you're unable to ever work again in the specific occupation you held before your illness or injury.
- Any occupation — you're unable to work in any occupation you're reasonably qualified for by education, training, or experience.
Understanding which definition applies to your policy — and building medical and employment evidence that clearly satisfies it — is one of the most critical (and most commonly mishandled) parts of a TPD claim.
How Thrive Claims Helps
- Identify every TPD cover you hold. We search current and past super funds to uncover policies you may not know exist.
- Gather the correct medical evidence. Insurers assess claims against specific criteria — we know what's required and help coordinate the right reports and documentation.
- Lodge strong, well-evidenced claims. A poorly prepared claim is far more likely to be delayed, queried, or denied. We build claims designed to be approved the first time.
- Navigate complex fund and insurer definitions. Trustee requirements, insurer policy wording, and legislative conditions of release can all affect your claim — we manage the technical detail so you don't have to.
- Maximise your payout. Where multiple policies or complicating factors exist, we work to ensure every dollar you're entitled to is pursued.
Common Reasons TPD Claims Are Delayed or Rejected
- Insufficient or poorly targeted medical evidence
- Missed or forgotten policies from previous super funds
- Misunderstanding which definition of disability applies
- Incomplete employment history documentation
- Missed deadlines or unclear insurer correspondence
A specialist advocate significantly reduces the risk of these issues derailing your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim TPD if I'm still working part-time? Depending on your policy's definition and your capacity to work, a reduced ability to work may still support a valid claim. This is assessed on your individual medical and employment circumstances.
Will I lose my super if I make a TPD claim? No — a TPD claim is a payment made to you in addition to (or as part of accessing) your super balance under permanent incapacity provisions, not a loss of your existing superannuation savings.
How much does it cost to make a claim? Nothing upfront. Thrive Claims operates entirely on a No Win, No Fee basis. See our fee structure →
Get a free TPD claim assessment → | Understand the full process →