Legal Insight from Case Studies That Changed Lives
This article unpacks common questions about TPD claims while drawing from real-world case experience. Whether you’re wondering if you need a lawyer, how the payout process works, or if you can claim for illness as well as injury, we offer direct, empathetic guidance. We also discuss how delays or missing deadlines can affect your injury compensation claim, and how injury lawyers can be the difference between a denied file and a paid claim.
Do I need a lawyer to make a TPD claim?
Technically, no. But practically, yes, if you want to get it right the first time.
The truth is, TPD claims in Australia are complex. Every insurer uses slightly different definitions, and every superannuation fund has its own eligibility rules. Missing one medical report or interpreting your policy the wrong way can mean months of delay, or a rejection.
Here’s what a TPD claims lawyer can do that you can’t do alone:
- Interpret the exact language of your policy
- Coordinate with your doctors for strong medical reports
- Draft a compelling personal statement that meets insurer requirements
- Chase insurers and super funds when they stall
- Appeal unfair claim rejections
- Maximise theTPD claim payout you’re entitled to
One of our most powerful TPD claim case studies involves a factory worker with a spinal injury. He’d already submitted a claim that was denied due to “insufficient evidence.” When he came to us, we reviewed his job duties, arranged new expert reports, and had his claim approved within three months, with a $240,000 lump sum paid.
How do I choose the right lawyer for my TPD claim?
Choosing the right lawyer is more than picking a name off Google. You need someone who gets it. Someone who’s lived and breathed TPD claims advice, not just general injury law.
Here’s what to look for:
- Experience with disability insurance claims in Australia
- Proven success inTPD claim case studies
- Straightforward, jargon-free communication
- A team that helps with paperwork, medical reports, and follow-ups
- Lawyers who work on a no-win, no-fee basis
Ask if they’ve handled workers compensation case studies, or if they can show examples of similar injuries or illnesses. At Gordon Legal, we don’t just talk, we show our results. Because behind every claim settlement is someone who needed a real win.
How does the TPD insurance payout process work?
The TPD claim process can feel confusing, but we break it down into clear steps:
- Check your insurance
Confirm your super fund and whether you had TPD cover when you stopped working. - Meet with a lawyer
Get legal advice early to avoid delays and prepare strong evidence. - Submit your TPD claim
This includes a detailed personal statement, medical reports from specialists, employment and earnings history, and completed fund claim forms - Assessment period
The insurer reviews your claim. They might request more documents or refer you for a second medical opinion. - Decision and payout
If approved, you receive aTPD insurance payout, either into your super or as a direct benefit, depending on your policy. - Appeal if denied
If rejected, you have the right to appeal. We can escalate to theAustralian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) or issue court proceedings if needed.
One of our notable success stories involved a former nurse with severe depression and PTSD. Her claim was initially rejected by the insurer. After taking over, we secured updated psychiatric assessments and expert vocational reports. The result: a $180,000 claim settlement, paid directly into her super.
What happens if I don’t submit my TPD claim within the time limit?
Missing the deadline can seriously jeopardise your case. There’s no single national rule, but most TPD policies have a clause requiring that:
- You stopped work due to injury or illness
- You remain unable to work for a minimum timeframe (usually 3 to 6 months)
- You lodge your claim within areasonable time, often 1–2 years from last work
However, some claims can be lodged even years later, depending on policy wording and your circumstances.
We’ve had cases where clients thought it was “too late.” But when we reviewed the policy, gathered fresh medical evidence and submitted a comprehensive claim, we still won.
This is why you need injury compensation lawyers who read the fine print, challenge insurer assumptions, and act fast to protect your rights.
Can I make a TPD claim for an illness, not just an injury?
Absolutely. TPD claims aren’t just for physical injuries. You may be eligible if you can no longer work due to:
- Mental health conditions, such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression
- Autoimmune disorders, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Cancer
- Neurological conditions, like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease
- Cardiovascular conditions, such as stroke or heart failure
One of our most impactful TPD claim success stories involved a schoolteacher with bipolar disorder. Despite working for over a decade, she could no longer manage the cognitive and emotional demands of the job. Her insurer pushed back, claiming she could work in a “different field.”
We fought the claim with psychiatric reports, a vocational assessment and evidence of her treatment history. In the end, we secured a six-figure TPD payout, and protected her access to the support she needed long-term.
Your Story Matters – And We’re Ready to Fight for It
Every TPD claim is more than a form. It’s your future. It’s your right to live with dignity, to get back on your feet, and to receive the support you’re entitled to after illness or injury has taken your career.
At Gordon Legal, we know this territory. We’ve handled hundreds of workers comp cases, TPD claims, and disability insurance claims across Australia. We’ve taken on the biggest insurers, and won.
We’re here to give you answers, direction, and firepower. Whether you’re just starting, have had a claim denied, or need urgent help, our TPD claim lawyers are ready.
Let’s get started. Contact Gordon Legal for fierce, determined legal help with your TPD claim. Your success story starts here.
No Win, No Fee TPD Claim Lawyers
Financial concerns should not deter you from seeking justice. Gordon Legal operates on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you only pay legal fees if we successfully secure compensation for you. This approach underscores our commitment to accessible legal representation for all.
You don’t have to face this alone
At Gordon Legal, we offer more than legal advice, we offer solidarity. If you’re wondering how to claim TPD compensation, reach out.
Our lawyers are here to listen without judgment, fight with purpose, and support you at every step.
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Simply fill out our online form, and one of our TPD claim lawyers will be in touch to discuss your case or give us a call on 1300 59 95 17.
No win, no fee
Help when you need it most without the added stress of upfront legal fees engaging a
no win, no fee lawyer.
When you need legal help, understandably, the first thing people often think is ‘can I
afford it?’ To address this, our Senior Partner, Peter Gordon and Partner, Paul Henderson pioneered the ‘no win, no fee’ system to create greater access to the legal system.