Explain the work you actually performed
Describe the duties you actually performed and any changes made because of your health. If you reduced your hours, changed duties or attempted to return to work, include what happened and why.
Under an “any occupation” definition, the assessment generally considers whether you are unable ever to work again in a job suited to your education, training or experience. Being unable to continue your previous job or working arrangement does not necessarily establish that requirement.
Confirm the insurance history
Check current and previous superannuation funds, together with any insurance held outside super. Ask for your insurance history and the policy documents applying at the relevant time.
Changes in employment can affect TPD cover, and cover through super may also be affected if an account becomes inactive.
Your illness or injury does not necessarily need to be work-related for a TPD claim. The applicable disability definition, exclusions and other policy requirements still need to be satisfied.
Medical evidence and other claims
Medical evidence should address the disability definition that applies to your claim. Depending on the policy, this may involve your capacity for your own occupation, other work suited to your education, training or experience, or specified activities of daily living.
Western Australian workers compensation is a separate scheme. WorkCover WA administers the scheme under the Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023 for work-related injuries and illnesses. A TPD claim, by comparison, is assessed against the applicable insurance policy.
Keep relevant workers compensation and employment records, but do not assume an outcome under one system determines your TPD insurance claim.
For TPD cover held through superannuation, also check the requirements for accessing the benefit and the tax treatment of any withdrawal.
Get help with the next step
Book a free consultation about TPD claims in Western Australia. Bring your current and previous super statements, insurance documents and any existing claim correspondence. If you do not have everything, start with the records available.
KSC Law can help identify the applicable cover, explain the evidence that may be required and review the reasons for any decision already made. If your claim has been refused, seek advice early so any applicable time limits can be checked.
Related reading: TPD claims lawyers · Do I qualify for a TPD claim
TPD guides and next steps
KSC supports TPD clients by phone and online.