Income Protection Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years

Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years

Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years?w=400
Recent findings from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveal that mental health issues have become the primary cause of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims.
Insurers disbursed nearly twice the amount for such claims in 2024 compared to five years prior.
This data originates from the CALI and KPMG's Cause of Claims Results Report, highlighting a significant shift in the nature of insurance claims.

In particular, the report noted that life insurers paid out over $2.2 billion for retail mental health claims, with TPD claims due to mental health issues representing a third of the total claims. Additionally, mental health issues comprise 20% of income protection claims, leading to payouts totalling $887 million in 2024 alone.

This trend reflects a broader trajectory first identified by the council in the previous year. According to the Australia’s Mental Health Check Up report by KPMG, there has been a staggering 732% increase in permanent disability claims among individuals in their 30s, with 36% now attributed to mental health conditions—a sharp rise from just 10.1% in 2013.

Christine Cupitt, CALI's chief executive, expressed concern over the increasing pressure on the safety net, including life insurance. She highlighted that while lump sum payouts offer immediate relief, they might not ensure long-term financial security, particularly for younger individuals with many years left in their working lives.

Cupitt remarked, "Australia is reaching a tipping point. Every year, more young Australians exit the workforce permanently due to mental health issues. It's troubling that these individuals often have to classify themselves as totally and permanently disabled, even when medical evidence suggests they could potentially return to work."

She further emphasized the need for systemic changes to cultivate a community more resilient to mental health challenges. While insurers remain committed to supporting those most affected by mental health conditions, there is an ongoing effort to reevaluate and improve customer service strategies for the future.

Published:Monday, 14th Jul 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Court Denies E-Scooter Negligence Allegation Against City Council Court Denies E-Scooter Negligence Allegation Against City Council
14 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

An Australian court recently ruled in favour of the City of Joondalup, rejecting a negligence claim lodged by an injured e-scooter rider. The Western Australia District Court found the city not liable for an accident involving insurance broker Kirstin Leibbrandt, who collided with a fence post while riding an e-scooter in the Perth suburb of Hillarys. - read more
Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years
14 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent findings from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveal that mental health issues have become the primary cause of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims. Insurers disbursed nearly twice the amount for such claims in 2024 compared to five years prior. This data originates from the CALI and KPMG's Cause of Claims Results Report, highlighting a significant shift in the nature of insurance claims. - read more
Impact of Trump Tariffs on Global Insurance Industry Impact of Trump Tariffs on Global Insurance Industry
11 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

According to Swiss Re’s latest Sigma report, the growth of property and casualty premiums is moderating in both Australia and globally. This moderation is primarily driven by a slowdown in rate hikes. Additionally, the Trump administration's America First trade policy is putting further pressure on the insurance sector. - read more
Navigating Changes in Australia's Life Insurance Advice Landscape Navigating Changes in Australia's Life Insurance Advice Landscape
10 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The conversation on the shifting dynamics in Australia's life insurance advice sector featured Zurich Australia's head of adviser channel, Kieran Forde, and Hayes & Co director, Katherine Hayes. They engaged with editor Chris Dastoor to spotlight the current market conditions and future prospects for financial advisers in this domain. - read more
ASIC Challenges Federal Court's 'Fair Term' Ruling ASIC Challenges Federal Court's 'Fair Term' Ruling
09 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is appealing a Federal Court decision regarding the wording of a 'pre-existing condition' clause in certain HCF Life insurance products. The court previously determined that while the wording had the potential to mislead consumers, it did not constitute an unfair contract term under the current laws set out in the ASIC Act 2001. - read more
ICA Advocates for Strata Law Reform in the ACT to Enhance Building Management ICA Advocates for Strata Law Reform in the ACT to Enhance Building Management
08 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is urging the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) to adopt strata transparency regulations, aiming to enhance oversight of building repairs and maintenance by owners’ committees. This call was made during a parliamentary inquiry, where the ICA pushed for measures akin to recent legislative changes in New South Wales. - read more



Life Insurance Articles

The Importance of Disability Insurance in a Freelancing World The Importance of Disability Insurance in a Freelancing World
Freelancing in Australia has witnessed exponential growth over the past few years. With the rise of the gig economy, more individuals are enjoying the flexibility and independence that come with being their own boss. From digital marketers to graphic designers, Australians are seizing various freelancing opportunities, embracing the freedom of working on projects that align with their passions. - read more
The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies
Income protection insurance is often surrounded by the myth of being unaffordable, deterring many Australians from safeguarding their most valuable asset—their ability to earn. This introduction aims to address this misconception head on, revealing the real value that income insurance policies can provide. It is crucial to understand that the cost of such a policy pales in comparison to the potential financial hardship faced without one. - read more
Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs
In recent times, the allure of being your own boss has led to a significant shift towards self-employment in Australia. This growing trend reflects a desire for greater flexibility and autonomy in one's career. However, amidst this independence lie uncertainties and financial risks unique to those who venture out on their own. - read more
Avoiding Overinsurance: How to Choose Adequate Coverage Without Wasting Money Avoiding Overinsurance: How to Choose Adequate Coverage Without Wasting Money
Income protection insurance is a key component of financial planning that safeguards your earning potential in the untimely event of illness or injury. In Australia, it reassures individuals that their most valuable asset, the ability to earn, is shielded against unforeseen circumstances. Adequate income protection can provide peace of mind, with the security of a regular income even when you're unable to work. - read more
5 Common Misconceptions About Income Protection Insurance in Australia 5 Common Misconceptions About Income Protection Insurance in Australia
Income protection insurance is a vital safety net for many Australians, offering financial stability when unexpected circumstances like illness or injury occur. Despite its importance, there are numerous misconceptions surrounding this type of insurance, leading to confusion and inadequate coverage among consumers. - read more
Understanding Income Replacement Benefits: A Complete Guide for Australians Understanding Income Replacement Benefits: A Complete Guide for Australians
Income replacement benefits are designed to provide financial support when you're unable to earn a salary due to illness or injury. They act as a safety net, ensuring you can maintain your lifestyle and meet ongoing expenses during unexpected interruptions. - read more
Important Tips to Streamline Your Income Protection Claim in Australia Important Tips to Streamline Your Income Protection Claim in Australia
In today's unpredictable world, securing your financial future is more important than ever. Income protection insurance plays a pivotal role for working Australians by providing a safety net in case illness or injury prevents you from earning an income. As an essential part of your overall financial planning, understanding income protection is crucial for peace of mind and stability. - read more
What Australians Need to Know Before Choosing an Income Protection Plan What Australians Need to Know Before Choosing an Income Protection Plan
Income protection insurance is a critical safety net for Australians, offering financial security in the event that one is unable to work due to illness or injury. The peace of mind it brings cannot be overstated, as it ensures that individuals and their families can maintain their standard of living even when the unexpected happens. - read more
Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs
In recent times, the allure of being your own boss has led to a significant shift towards self-employment in Australia. This growing trend reflects a desire for greater flexibility and autonomy in one's career. However, amidst this independence lie uncertainties and financial risks unique to those who venture out on their own. - read more
Dispelling the Myths: Why Income Protection is More Accessible Than You Think Dispelling the Myths: Why Income Protection is More Accessible Than You Think
Income protection insurance serves as a financial safety net, designed to support individuals in the event that they are unable to work due to illness or injury. The significance of this type of insurance lies in its ability to provide a continuation of income during tough times, ensuring that one's financial responsibilities are taken care of. - read more
The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies
Income protection insurance is often surrounded by the myth of being unaffordable, deterring many Australians from safeguarding their most valuable asset—their ability to earn. This introduction aims to address this misconception head on, revealing the real value that income insurance policies can provide. It is crucial to understand that the cost of such a policy pales in comparison to the potential financial hardship faced without one. - read more
Decoding the Fine Print: What to Look out for in Your Income Protection Policy Decoding the Fine Print: What to Look out for in Your Income Protection Policy
Income protection insurance serves as a vital safety net for Australian workers, ensuring financial stability in the face of unexpected illness or injury. As the landscape of work and health continues to evolve, understanding the essentials of income protection becomes increasingly crucial for anyone who relies on a steady income to support themselves and their loved ones. - read more

Start Here !
disability protection
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Monthly Income Benefit:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Exclusion:
Specific conditions or circumstances for which the insurance policy does not provide coverage.