Many Australians with permanent disabilities receive support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). What many don't realise is that being an NDIS participant doesn't prevent a TPD claim through superannuation — they are completely separate entitlements.
What NDIS provides
NDIS funds support and services — therapy, equipment, home modifications, support workers — to help people with permanent and significant disability live as independently as possible. It does not provide an income or lump sum replacement for lost wages.
What TPD provides
TPD through your superannuation provides a lump sum payment based on the insurance cover you held. This money is yours to use however you wish — to pay off debts, fund home modifications, supplement Centrelink, or simply provide financial security.
They don't offset each other
Unlike some entitlements, a TPD payout doesn't generally reduce your NDIS funding. However, it may affect Centrelink payments depending on how the money is held or invested — see our guide on TPD and Centrelink.
Both are worth claiming
If you have a permanent disability and are on NDIS (or applying), also check your super for TPD cover. A free eligibility check at tpdsupport.com.au takes a couple of minutes.