The first question most people ask when considering a TPD claim is: "How much am I actually covered for?" The answer varies significantly between funds and changes as you age — but here's a guide to typical default amounts and how to find your specific number.
How default TPD cover is calculated
Most super funds offer default TPD cover based on one of two approaches:
- Fixed dollar amount — a set cover amount (e.g. $100,000) regardless of income, adjusted by age
- Salary-linked — a multiple of your salary (e.g. 3x annual salary) or a number of "units" linked to your income at the time of joining
Cover often reduces as you age (a process called "age-based stepping"), meaning the same policy provides less at 55 than at 35.
Typical default TPD cover ranges
As a rough guide, default super fund TPD cover in Australia typically falls between:
- $50,000 – $100,000 for younger members or those in basic industry fund defaults
- $100,000 – $300,000 for members aged 25–45 in standard industry funds
- $200,000 – $500,000+ for employer-negotiated corporate arrangements or members who have voluntarily increased cover
These are rough ranges — your actual cover amount may be higher or lower.
How to find your exact cover
- Log into your super fund's online portal and navigate to the Insurance section
- Check your most recent annual statement — it should list your TPD cover amount
- Call your fund's member services line with your member number
Once you know your amount, a free eligibility check can confirm whether a claim is worth pursuing.