If you've been injured at work and are receiving workers' compensation payments, you may assume that's your only financial entitlement. In fact, TPD insurance through your superannuation is entirely separate from workers' compensation, and you may be entitled to both.
How they interact
Workers' compensation covers lost wages (weekly payments) and medical treatment while you are recovering and on claim. TPD through super is a lump sum payment for permanent disability. They operate under different legislation and are administered by different organisations.
In most cases, receiving workers' compensation does not prevent a TPD claim — but some super funds and policies may take workers' comp payments into account when calculating a benefit, and some policies have specific provisions around the timing of claims.
When to claim TPD while on workers' comp
The right time to pursue a TPD claim is when it becomes clear that your condition is permanent and unlikely to allow a return to work. This might be when:
- Your workers' comp claim is approaching a settlement or impairment assessment
- Your treating specialists have documented that a return to work is unlikely
- Your workers' comp is being disputed or reduced
Coordination matters
Running two claims simultaneously requires care to avoid overlap or offset issues. Start with a free eligibility check to understand your position.