TPD
Lawyers
Suffering a disability after illness or injury can create significant financial pressure at an already difficult time. Many superannuation funds include Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance, which may provide a lump sum payment if you are unable to work.
At GMP Law, our experienced TPD lawyers provide clear, compassionate support to help you navigate the claims process and secure the best possible outcome. We manage the legal process and requirements on your behalf, so you can focus on your health and recovery.
Am I eligible to make a TPD claim?
TPD insurance provides a lump sum payment if a permanent disability prevents you from returning to work. Many Australians have TPD cover through their superannuation without realising they may be eligible to make a claim.
If the answer to these questions is yes, you may be eligible to make a TPD claim.
1. Did you have valid TPD insurance when you developed your condition?
Most Australians have TPD insurance through their super fund, although some policies are held directly with an insurer. Your cover generally needs to have been active when your condition prevented you from working.
This may include:
- TPD cover through superannuation
- A standalone insurance policy
- Active cover while employed or contributing to super
- Cover linked to your occupation.
2. Do you meet your insurer’s definition of total and permanent disability?
Every policy defines total and permanent disability differently. Some policies assess whether you can return to your previous job, while others assess whether you can work in any suitable role.
This may include:
- “Own occupation” cover
- “Any occupation” cover
- Physical injuries
- Psychological conditions
- Medical evidence supporting permanent impairment.
3. Does your injury or illness prevent you from working permanently?
You will usually need to show that your condition prevents you from returning to your current job or another suitable occupation.
This may include:
- Being unable to return to your previous role
- Being unable to retrain for suitable work
- Medical evidence confirming your limitations
- Being unable to work for six months or longer.
TPD claims:
Your rights, our fight
TPD claims cover many different injuries, illnesses, and medical conditions that permanently affect your ability to work. Whether your condition is physical, psychological, or degenerative, you may be entitled to claim a lump sum payment through your TPD insurance.
Physical injuries
- Spinal injuries and paralysis
- Loss of limbs or mobility
- Severe burns
- Loss of hearing or speech
- Workplace injuries resulting in permanent disability.
Chronic pain conditions
- Chronic pain lasting longer than three months
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Fibromyalgia
- Severe arthritis.
Mental health conditions
- Severe depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Progressive illnesses or degenerative conditions
- Cancer
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Chronic lung disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Autoimmune conditions.
Neurological conditions
- Stroke
- Brain injuries
- Epilepsy
- Motor neurone disease
- Neuropathy.
Cardiovascular and other serious medical conditions
- Heart attack
- Heart disease
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes-related complications.
Speak with a total and permanent disability lawyer now.
Start with a free consultation and get your case reviewed within minutes.
Why Choose Gerard Malouf & Partners
What does a TPD claim cover?
A successful TPD claim provides a lump sum payment designed to ease the financial impact of a permanent disability or illness that prevents you from working. The payment can help provide long-term financial stability when your ability to earn an income has been reduced or lost.
There are generally no restrictions on how you use your TPD compensation. Depending on your circumstances, it may help cover:
- Lost income and future financial security
- Mortgage repayments, debts, and everyday living expenses
- Medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
- Home or vehicle modifications for accessibility
- Specialist equipment and support services
- Superannuation and retirement planning
- Financial support for your partner, children, or dependants.
The amount you can claim will depend on your insurance policy, level of cover, and whether you meet the insurer’s definition of total and permanent disability.
Personal injury claims and TPD benefits
In many cases, a TPD claim can be made alongside other types of compensation. These claims are assessed separately and generally do not reduce or affect one another.
A TPD lawyer can review your situation and explain how different entitlements may apply at the same time.
Type of claim | What it covers |
Injuries or illnesses from work | |
Injuries caused by a road accident | |
Injuries caused by negligence in a public or private setting | |
Lump sum payment for specified serious illnesses | |
Payment to dependants or estate after death |
Our Unique Fee Reduction Guarantee
Satisfaction first:
Fees second
If our service fails to meet the high standards we set, we’ll reduce our fees. We are the only Australian firm that backs our service with a written cost reduction promise, giving you total confidence in your claim.
The compensation claim process: Your journey with GMP Law
Initial consultation
Evidence gathering
Claim submission
Negotiation
We’ll advocate fiercely on your behalf, aiming for a fair settlement that truly reflects your needs.
Court representation
Ongoing support
We’re here to address any questions or concerns that arise along the way.
Why choose our TPD lawyers?
Our No Win No Fee TPD lawyers specialise in handling some of the most complex and challenging cases. With deep expertise in TPD law, we understand the unique difficulties these claims present and know how to navigate them effectively.
Key benefits include:
98% success rate
Australia-wide coverage.
Expert lawyer support in every state
Free initial consultation
to assess your claim
Award-winning lawyers
Proudly recognised by Doyles Guide 2025 for excellence in personal injury legal services
No Win No Fee.
If we don’t win, you don’t pay
Specialised expertise.
Our accredited lawyers bring years of experience managing complex claims
No Win No Fee
Fee transparency that you can trust
At GMP Law, we’re committed to ensuring you have nothing to lose with our No Win No Fee service.
How our No Win No Fee system works:
No upfront costs
Start your claim without any financial risk
No contingency fees.
We don’t take a percentage of your settlement
Fair hourly rates.
When you win, we charge transparent hourly rates
Careful case evaluation.
We only take cases we believe can succeed
Our commitment. If we don’t believe your case will result in compensation or if costs outweigh benefits, we won’t take it on. This dedication to our clients’ best interests sets our No Win No Fee TPD lawyers apart.
Proven results: TPD case studies
At GMP Law, we’ve successfully represented clients from various walks of life, processing claims for all types of total and permanent disability.
Case 1: $500,000 TPD payout after motor vehicle accident
Background
John, a 44-year-old office worker, was involved in a motor vehicle accident on his way home from work. He sustained a severe right shoulder injury, requiring five surgeries over several years. Despite multiple attempts, he was unable to return to his previous role.
The issue
The claim was disputed based on a workers’ compensation report suggesting John could return to work with significant restrictions.
GMP Law’s approach
- Obtained detailed specialist medical reports confirming John’s long-term limitations
- Addressed conflicting workers’ compensation evidence
- Advised on timing of the claim to reflect the full extent of injury after multiple surgeries
- Strengthened evidence of both physical and psychological impact
- Managed insurer communications throughout the assessment process.
Outcome
John’s TPD claim for $500,000 was approved just over a year after lodgement. The payment provided financial stability while he continued pursuing his motor vehicle accident and workers’ compensation claims.
Case 2: $300,000 TPD payout for workplace spinal injury
Background
Our client is a former construction worker who sustained serious back injuries on a construction site. His spinal condition caused ongoing pain and ultimately prevented him from safely returning to work. After successfully resolving his workers’ compensation claim, he engaged GMP Law to pursue his TPD claim, which had already been delayed for two years.
The issue
The insurer repeatedly delayed the claim by requesting additional information in stages, despite sufficient medical evidence already being available to assess TPD.
GMP Law’s approach
- Reviewed the insurer’s conduct and identified unreasonable delay tactics
- Consolidated and relied on existing medical evidence confirming total disability
- Demanded immediate assessment and payment of the claim
- Issued a formal letter of demand outlining failure to progress the claim
- Prepared to commence proceedings if the insurer continued to delay.
Outcome
Following further pressure and legal escalation, the insurer accepted liability and paid the full TPD benefit of $300,000.
Case 3: $400,000 TPD payout for multiple sclerosis
Background
A 39-year-old project manager was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and initially managed her condition while continuing full-time employment through regular treatment. Over time, her symptoms progressed, resulting in both physical and cognitive impairment that eventually prevented her from continuing work.
The issue
The insurer disputed the “date of disablement,” given the long gap between diagnosis and stopping work. An earlier date could have undermined the claim’s validity and led to rejection.
GMP Law’s approach
- Reviewed medical and employment history to establish symptom progression over time
- Argued that disablement occurred when she could no longer continue working, not at diagnosis
- Demonstrated she had been effectively managing her condition while employed
- Coordinated and progressed both income protection and TPD claims in parallel
- Prepared detailed submissions addressing policy definitions and timing issues.
Outcome
The income protection claim was approved in 17 days. The TPD claim was approved within five months, resulting in a $400,000 payout.
What our clients say:
These are genuine reviews from real clients on Google, sharing their experiences with our TPD compensation lawyers.
Turning injuries into justice, transforming lives through compensation
At GMP Law, we’re not just fighting for compensation – we’re fighting for your right to recover, rebuild, and reclaim your life after an injury. Read our TPD case studies:
John’s journey: Overcoming adversity to secure a $500,000 Total Permanent Disability (TPD) claim
John’s Journey:Overcoming adversity to secure a $500k TPD Claim Jump to Result This image does not depict our actual client. John’s
Meet our TPD lawyers
Meet our dedicated team of total and permanent disability (TPD) lawyers, supporting clients across Australia. We specialise in helping people secure TPD benefits through superannuation and insurance claims, with a strong track record of successful outcomes.
With offices in Sydney, Parramatta, and across New South Wales, as well as Brisbane and the Gold Coast in Queensland, and Melbourne and Geelong in Victoria, we are here to help wherever you are.
Frequently Asked Questions about TPD Claims
What does TPD insurance cover?
TPD insurance offers a lump sum payment in the event of total and permanent disability resulting from illness or injury.
Each super fund insurance policy defines total and permanent disability differently, which may include:
- Own occupation: This coverage applies if you are unable to return to your previous job. It tends to be more expensive and is usually not included in superannuation policies.
- Any occupation: This coverage applies if you cannot work in any job that aligns with your qualifications. While this option is more affordable, it has stricter claim requirements, making payouts less common.
How do I find out if I have TPD cover?
To determine your level of TPD cover under your super fund, you can check your member statement, review your product disclosure documents, or contact your fund directly for assistance.
How much can I expect my TPD payout to be?
TPD payouts vary significantly depending on your insurance cover and personal circumstances. Most claims fall anywhere from around $60,000 to $500,000, although some policies may pay more or less depending on the level of cover held.
The amount you receive is typically influenced by factors such as:
- Your policy terms, including whether it is “own occupation” or “any occupation” cover
- Your occupation, skills, education, and work history
- The severity and permanence of your injury or illness
- Your age and likely future earning capacity at the time you became unable to work.
Will my pre-existing conditions affect my TPD claim?
Pre-existing conditions do not automatically disqualify you from making a TPD claim. The key factor is whether you meet the policy’s definition of total and permanent disability. Our TPD lawyers are here to help you navigate the process.
How long does a TPD claim take?
Most TPD claims take between six to 12 months to resolve, though complex cases may take longer. Our team works efficiently to expedite the process while ensuring your claim is thoroughly prepared.
Can I receive income protection as well as a TPD claim?
Income protection insurance is separate from a TPD claim. It provides ongoing monthly payments while you are unable to work, whereas a TPD claim provides a one-off lump sum if your condition is considered permanent.
You may be eligible for both at different stages, depending on your policy and medical condition.
What is a superannuation insurance benefit?
Most super funds provide life insurance, total and permanent disability (TPD) insurance, and income protection for their members. These benefits are paid out upon retirement or when a TPD claim is made.
Typically, TPD cover ends at around age 65, while life cover usually concludes at age 70.
Can I make multiple TPD claims?
Yes. It is common for people to have more than one superannuation account, each with its own TPD insurance cover.
If multiple policies were active at the time you became unable to work, you may be able to lodge a separate TPD claim under each eligible policy.
What if my TPD claim is rejected?
TPD claims can be rejected if they have insufficient medical evidence, don’t meet the policy definitions, include incomplete documentation or if there are pre-existing condition exclusions.
If your claim was rejected, don’t lose hope. Many claims are initially rejected but are successful on appeal. Our TPD lawyers can help you through the appeals process so that you can get the compensation you deserve.
Learn more about TPD claims
TPD claims in Queensland: Eligibility, payouts & how to claim
A total and permanent disability (TPD) claim is made against your TPD insurance policy when illness or injury permanently prevents you
TPD claims for fibromyalgia: Eligibility, evidence & payouts
If fibromyalgia has left you unable to work, you may be able to make a total and permanent disability (TPD) claim
TPD claim for cancer: Eligibility, payouts & how to claim
If cancer has left you unable to return to work, you may be able to claim a total and permanent disability
Successful TPD claims: Real stories & case studies
A successful TPD claim meets your insurance policy’s definition of total and permanent disability. Most TPD claims in Australia are approved,
TPD claims for Multiple Sclerosis: Eligibility, evidence & payouts
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic illness of the central nervous system that can affect your ability to work, sometimes permanently.
TPD payout amounts: How much could you receive?
A TPD payout is a lump sum paid through your insurance when illness or injury means you are unlikely to ever
Talk to a TPD lawyer today
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