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What applies to me?

Your plain-English action plan

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What is Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance?Tasmania

In one sentence

Many Australians have TPD cover in their super without knowing it — and it is a separate claim from workers' compensation.

Your next steps

  1. 1Log in to myGov and check all your super accounts.
  2. 2Request the insurance policy documents from each fund.
  3. 3Ask your doctors whether you are likely to return to work.
  4. 4Contact AFCA (1800 931 678) if a fund refuses your claim.
  5. 5Contact WorkSafe Tasmania (1300 366 322) for free information about how the TAS scheme applies to you.
  6. 6If you disagree with a decision — The Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT) handles workers compensation disputes, starting with conciliation.
  7. 7Watch the time limits — Claims should be made within 6 months of the injury.
  8. 8Consider getting independent legal advice before signing anything or accepting a settlement.
Check a deadline

How TAS works

Weekly payments
Based on normal weekly earnings, stepping down after 26 weeks and 78 weeks, and generally ending after 9 years (longer for 30% WPI or more).
Medical expenses
Reasonable medical expenses are covered, and generally continue for 12 months after weekly payments end.
Permanent impairment
Lump sum compensation is generally available for permanent impairment of 5% WPI or more (10% for psychiatric injury).
Free legal help
Legal Aid Tasmania, unions and community legal centres can help.
Read the full TAS guide →

Questions you may have

How do I find my super accounts?

Log in to myGov and link the ATO — it lists all your super accounts, including lost super.

Does a WorkCover payout reduce TPD?

Usually not, but it depends on the policy. Some policies have offsets. Check the policy or get advice.

Is a lawyer needed?

Not always, but TPD claims can be complex. Many TPD lawyers offer no-win-no-fee arrangements — ask about all costs in writing.

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 Tasmania

Tasmanian regulator — information about workers rehabilitation and compensation.

Covers: TAS

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.