Superannuation and TPD Lawyers

BurkeMead are expert superannuation and TPD lawyers in Newcastle, assisting clients with a range of legal services and professional advice.

Get Started in 3 Simple Steps

Taking the first step toward legal support doesn't have to be complicated. Follow our simple process and let us guide you every step of the way.

  1. Step 1

    Book a Consultation

    Tell us about your situation in confidence. Our team will listen carefully and provide an initial assessment.

  2. Step 2

    Understand Your Options

    We'll explain your rights, the process, and the possible outcomes, so you know exactly what to expect before moving forward.

  3. Step 3

    Get Dedicated Representation

    With a clear plan in place, we'll represent your best interests and work to achieve the outcome you deserve.

Awards and recognition

2025

Doyles Guide

Australia Leading Public Liability Compensation Lawyers (Plaintiff)

2025

Doyles Guide

Recommended – Australia Leading Motor Vehicle Accident Compensation Lawyers (Plaintiff)

2025

Doyles Guide

Leading Lawyer Work Injury Compensation (Plaintiff)

2025

Doyles Guide

Preeminent Lawyer Motor Vehicle Accident Compensation (Plaintiff)

2025

Doyles Guide

Preeminent Lawyer Public Liability Compensation (Plaintiff)

2024

Doyles Guide

Recommended Leading Firm Compensation Law

2025

Doyles Guide

Recommended Law Firm Medical Negligence (Plaintiff)

2024

Doyles Guide

Third Tier Law Firm Motor Vehicle Accident (Plaintiff)

2024

Three Best Rated

Top 3 Best Compensation Lawyers in Newcastle

2024

Doyles Guide

Third Tier Law Firm Public Liability (Plaintiff)

2024

Doyles Guide

Third Tier Law Firm Work Injury Compensation

2024

Doyles Guide

Leading Lawyer Work Injury Compensation

2024

Doyles Guide

Preeminent Lawyer Motor Vehicle Accident Compensation

Client reviews

EXCELLENT

Based on 70 reviews

Google

  • Kristy Weinert

    I cannot recommend Jamie Burns highly enough based on my experiences with him. It's a rare gem to find someone like

  • Michael Esler

    I highly recommend Emma Mead and Jamie Burns for their dedication and assistance in my Work Cover claim. From the

  • Mitchell Sneddon

    Emma and the team at Burke Mead managed my workers compensation and subsequent civil liability matter.

  • Lee Wallace

    Beautiful office, friendly staff. I cleaned it after builders were finished — I can only imagine how beautiful it is with furniture.

Expert Superannuation and TPD Claims Lawyers

The Benefits of Working with Specialised Lawyers During Your TPD Insurance Claim

Seeking legal assistance in super and income protection insurance-related matters is the best course of action and can increase your chances of a successful claim.

Burke Mead Lawyers offers specialist expertise, local knowledge, and a client-focused approach to every TPD and superannuation claim. Burke Mead Lawyers are among the top personal injury lawyers in NSW, led by Emma Mead, the Managing Director of Burke Mead Lawyers and an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law. Our team operates across Newcastle, the Hunter region, the Central Coast, Sydney and regional NSW.

We are committed to clear communication, practical solutions, and supporting you through complex claims. Our track record of successful claims and maximum compensation for clients speaks for itself. Choosing Burke Mead means working with a personal injury lawyer in NSW who genuinely cares about your wellbeing and financial future.

Superannuation & Total Permanent Disability Claims FAQs

Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance provides a lump sum payment if you become permanently unable to work due to a serious injury or illness. Most Australians have TPD insurance automatically included in their superannuation funds, which also often covers income protection and death benefit claims. These insurance benefits are designed to provide financial support for living expenses, medical costs, and other obligations when you are unable to earn an income. Superannuation insurance is a safety net for workers and their families, offering peace of mind during difficult times.

To make a TPD claim, you generally need to show you are unable to work in your usual occupation—or any occupation suited to your education, training, or experience—due to a permanent disability. This can result from physical injuries, mental health conditions, or critical illnesses. Most superannuation insurance policies require you to be off work for at least three months and to provide medical evidence from your treating doctors. You may also be eligible for superannuation insurance claims if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness or are seeking a death benefit for a loved one.

In addition to TPD benefits, you may be entitled to:

  • Income protection benefits (regular payments if you are temporarily unable to work)
  • Trauma insurance (lump sum for specific illnesses or injuries)
  • Death benefit claims (for beneficiaries of a deceased member)

Making a TPD or superannuation claim involves several key steps:

  1. Check Your Policy and Super Fund: Review your superannuation fund or insurance policy to confirm your TPD insurance coverage and understand the definition of total and permanent disability.
  2. Gather Medical and Employment Evidence: Collect medical reports, employment records, and any other documentation that supports your claim. Medical evidence is essential for a successful TPD claim.
  3. Notify Your Super Fund or Insurer: Contact your super fund or insurer to request the relevant claim forms. Some funds allow you to make multiple TPD claims if you have more than one policy.
  4. Complete and Submit Claim Forms: Fill out the claim forms accurately, attaching all required medical and employment evidence. Incomplete or inaccurate information can delay your claim.
  5. Assessment and Review: The insurer will assess your claim, which may involve further medical examinations or requests for additional information. The TPD claim process can take several months, depending on the complexity of your case.
  6. Decision and Payout: If your claim is approved, you will receive a lump sum payment or other benefits as outlined in your policy. If your claim is rejected, you have options for review or appeal.

Our Personal Injury Lawyers

Public Notary Specialist Accredited in Personal Injury Law

Common Questions

Why Claims Can Get Rejected

Many TPD and superannuation claims are rejected for reasons such as: Incomplete or inaccurate claim forms Insufficient medical evidence or unclear diagnosis Not meeting the policy’s definition of total and permanent disability Missing strict time limits for lodging claims To avoid these pitfalls, provide comprehensive documentation and seek legal advice early. Our experienced TPD lawyers can help you prepare a strong claim, address any gaps in evidence, and respond to insurer questions. If your claim is rejected, we can assist with internal reviews, complaints to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), or legal proceedings if necessary.

How do I make multiple claims?

If you have more than one superannuation fund or insurance policy, you may be able to make multiple TPD claims. For example, if you have two super funds, each with TPD insurance, you can claim TPD benefits from both, provided you meet each policy’s criteria. However, some policies may have restrictions or offset clauses, so it’s important to review each policy carefully.

How do I handle disputes and appeals?

If your TPD claim is denied, you can request an internal review from your super fund or insurer. If the outcome is still unsatisfactory, you may lodge a complaint with AFCA or seek legal action. Our legal team has experience handling complex claims and appeals, increasing your chances of a successful outcome. In some cases, exploring the benefits of mediation can help resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively.

Meet Your Personal Injury Lawyers

  • Emma Mead
    Emma MeadManaging Director
  • Jamie Burns
    Jamie BurnsSenior Associate
  • Sean Wright
    Sean WrightSenior Associate
  • Heidi Lewis
    Heidi LewisSenior Associate

Compensation Lawyers Near You

We help injured people right across New South Wales. Find your nearest Burke Mead office.

Speak with our team today

No obligation to start. Offices in Newcastle, Maitland, the Central Coast, Sydney and Dubbo.