Own Occupation TPD

Own occupation TPD is the most comprehensive form of total and permanent disability cover in Australia. It assesses your ability to work in your specific current occupation at the time of disability, regardless of whether you could work in alternative roles.

A surgeon who loses fine motor control may be unable to perform surgery (their own occupation) but could still work in medical administration. Under own occupation TPD, the policy pays the full benefit despite the alternative work capacity.

Why it is easier to claim

The broader definition makes claims significantly easier to substantiate and more likely to be approved than any occupation TPD.

The definition typically requires you to be:

• Unable to perform the important duties of your regular occupation
• Unlikely to ever work in that occupation again due to illness or injury

Who benefits most

Own occupation cover is particularly valuable for people whose skills are specific to their role and who would lose substantial income if forced into alternative employment:

• Specialists such as surgeons, anaesthetists, and senior consultants
• Professionals including barristers, dentists, and engineers
• Tradespeople with physical-skill occupations like electricians and carpenters
• Performers and athletes whose income depends on a specific physical capability

Cost and where it is available

Own occupation premiums are typically 30 to 50 percent higher than any occupation cover, reflecting the increased likelihood of claims being paid.

It is commonly available through:

• Retail insurance policies held outside super
• Some industry superannuation funds as an upgrade

Many default super fund policies provide only any occupation coverage.