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What applies to me?

Your plain-English action plan

  1. Step 1

  2. Step 2

  3. Step 3

Can I access income protection through my superannuation?Australian Capital Territory

In one sentence

Some super funds include income protection that pays a monthly benefit — but WorkCover payments may reduce it.

Your next steps

  1. 1Call your super fund and ask what insurance you hold.
  2. 2Request the product disclosure statement for your cover.
  3. 3Lodge a claim even if you are unsure about offsets.
  4. 4Speak with a super lawyer or AFCA if refused.
  5. 5Contact WorkSafe ACT (13 22 81) for free information about how the ACT scheme applies to you.
  6. 6If you disagree with a decision — Disputes can be referred to conciliation and arbitration, and proceedings may be brought in the ACT Magistrates Court.
  7. 7Watch the time limits — Claims should be made as soon as possible.
  8. 8Consider getting independent legal advice before signing anything or accepting a settlement.
Check a deadline

How ACT works

Weekly payments
Based on pre-incapacity weekly earnings, stepping down after 26 weeks, and generally continuing while you have reduced capacity until retirement age.
Medical expenses
Reasonable medical and related treatment costs are covered.
Permanent impairment
Lump sums for permanent loss or impairment are payable based on a table of maims or a WPI assessment.
Free legal help
Legal Aid ACT, unions and community legal centres can help.
Read the full ACT guide →

Questions you may have

I left my job. Am I still covered?

Cover may continue for a period after you stop work or the account becomes inactive. Check the policy and your fund.

Is income protection taxed?

Income protection benefits are generally taxed as income. Get tax advice for your situation.

Can I claim both TPD and income protection?

Often yes, they are different benefits. The policy terms decide.

Support available to you

Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified

Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)

Free, independent complaints service for disputes with super funds and insurers, including TPD and income protection.

Covers: National

Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified

Fair Work Ombudsman

Information about workplace rights, dismissal and pay. Fair Work Commission deals with unfair dismissal and bullying applications.

Covers: National

Financial counsellingFree Verified

National Debt Helpline

Free, confidential, independent financial counselling to help with debts, bills and hardship.

Covers: National

Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified

Services Australia – Disability, Sickness and Carers

Centrelink line for the Disability Support Pension, sickness-related payments and carers.

Covers: National

Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified

WorkSafe ACT

ACT work health and safety and workers compensation regulator.

Covers: ACT

General information only. Rules change and depend on your circumstances. Check with your regulator or get independent legal, financial or medical advice about your situation.