Young Australians often assume that TPD is only for older workers. In reality, serious illness and injury can happen at any age — and the financial impact of being unable to work in your 20s or 30s can be enormous given the decades of income that may be lost.
TPD cover for young workers
Most young Australians with any super account — even one with a small balance — have default TPD insurance cover included automatically. However, note that under "Protecting Your Super" rules, super accounts for people under 25 require an opt-in for insurance, so not all young accounts include cover automatically.
Lower super balance, but cover still counts
A TPD insurance payout is separate from your super balance. Even if your account balance is small, the insurance cover amount may be substantial — often $100,000–$200,000 for default cover, depending on the fund and your age.
Common conditions for young TPD claimants
- Mental health conditions — depression, anxiety, psychosis
- Serious accidents causing lasting physical disability
- Cancer or other serious illness diagnosed at a young age
- Neurological conditions with early onset
Check your eligibility regardless of age with a free eligibility check.