Injured at Work? You May Be Entitled to Both a WorkCover Claim and a TPD Claim

If you’ve been injured at work, you may already know about your right to make a WorkCover claim.

However, many injured workers don’t realise they may also be entitled to make a TPD claim through their superannuation.

At Morgan Clifford Legal Services in Milton, our experienced compensation lawyers assist clients with both WorkCover claims and TPD claims. These are separate legal entitlements, and in many cases, pursuing both can help maximise the financial support available while you focus on your recovery.

What is a WorkCover Claim?

A WorkCover claim provides benefits to workers who suffer an injury or illness arising out of, or during, their employment.

A successful WorkCover claim may provide:

• Weekly income payments if you’re unable to work
• Medical and hospital expenses
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy
• Travel costs for treatment
• Return-to-work support
• Lump sum compensation in some circumstances

The purpose of a WorkCover claim is to provide financial assistance while you recover from your workplace injury.

What is a TPD Claim?

A TPD claim (Total and Permanent Disability claim) is different from a WorkCover claim.

A TPD claim is an insurance claim made through your superannuation fund, not through WorkCover. Many Australians have TPD insurance included with their superannuation without even realising it.

If your injury or illness means you’re unlikely to ever return to your usual occupation – or, depending on your policy, any occupation – you may be entitled to receive a substantial lump sum payment through a TPD claim.

Unlike a WorkCover claim, a TPD claim does not provide weekly income or pay your medical expenses. Instead, it provides a one-off insurance benefit to help support you financially if you’re permanently unable to work.

Can You Make Both a WorkCover Claim and a TPD Claim?

Yes.

One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is that people believe they must choose between a WorkCover claim and a TPD claim. In many situations, that’s simply not the case.

For example:

• You suffer a serious shoulder injury while working.
• You lodge a WorkCover claim and receive weekly payments while undergoing treatment.
• Despite surgery and rehabilitation, you’re unable to return to your previous job.
• Because your injury is permanent, you may also qualify to make a TPD claim through your superannuation.

These claims are completely separate and are assessed under different laws and insurance policies.

Why It’s Important to Get Advice Early

Many people focus solely on their WorkCover claim and never investigate whether they’re also entitled to make a TPD claim.

Unfortunately, this can mean missing out on a significant insurance payment that could help:

• Reduce your mortgage or debts
• Support your family financially
• Cover future living expenses
• Provide financial security if you cannot return to work

Every superannuation fund has different insurance policies and eligibility requirements, so obtaining legal advice early can make a significant difference.

How Morgan Clifford Legal Services Can Help

At Morgan Clifford Legal Services, our compensation lawyers understand that navigating multiple claims can feel overwhelming.

We can assist you with:

• Lodging and managing your WorkCover claim
• Assessing whether you’re eligible to make a TPD claim
• Preparing and lodging your TPD claim through your superannuation
• Communicating with insurers on your behalf
• Advising how your WorkCover claim and TPD claim may interact
• Helping you pursue every compensation entitlement available to you

Our team works to make the claims process as straightforward as possible, providing practical advice and strong legal representation every step of the way.

Don’t Miss Out on Your Entitlements

If you’ve suffered a serious workplace injury, don’t assume that your WorkCover claim is your only option.

You may also be entitled to make a TPD claim through your superannuation, potentially providing valuable financial support for your future.

At Morgan Clifford Legal Services in Milton, our experienced compensation lawyers can advise you on both your WorkCover claim and your TPD claim, helping you understand your rights and pursue every entitlement available.

Contact our team today for tailored legal advice and let us help you move forward with confidence.