TAL enhances Accelerated Protection with innovative TPD Support Option and strengthened Income Protection for self-employed customers

TAL has updated its flagship retail product, Accelerated Protection, including the launch of the TPD Support Option, a new approach in the Australian life insurance market. The insurer has also strengthened Income Protection for self-employed customers, delivering added support during a claim.

Gavin Teichner, TAL Chief Executive – Individual Life, said the changes reflected TAL's commitment to evolving product design in line with changing customer needs, clinical insights and financial adviser feedback.

"Our focus is on ensuring TAL's products reflect how Australians live and work today and deliver genuine value. We've taken an evidence-based approach with these changes to Accelerated Protection to ensure meaningful support for those who need it, while maintaining value for all our customers."

Introducing TAL’s TPD Support Option, designed around real customer health journeys

TAL recognises that every customer's recovery is unique. Developed through extensive research and consultation with customers, advisers, GPs and specialist clinicians, the TPD Support Option has been designed specifically for certain mental health, chronic fatigue and functional conditions where recovery outcomes can vary significantly.

Customers who choose this option receive 20% of their sum insured each year for claims involving these conditions, provided they continue to meet the TPD criteria at annual review. This flexible structure provides ongoing financial support during recovery, with the certainty that if they're unable to return to work, they'll receive their full sum insured over time. Claims for all other health conditions are paid as a full lump sum.

During their claim, customers can also access tailored health programs through TAL Health for Life to support their recovery.

"The TPD Support Option recognises that recovery is rarely straightforward. Some people can return to work with the right support and treatment, while others, unfortunately, cannot. Its flexible approach helps people through their recovery journey while maintaining strong financial protection for those permanently unable to work," said Mr Teichner.

Supporting self-employed customers when an illness or injury affects their work

Recognising that self-employed Australians face unique challenges when they can't work, TAL has introduced two improvements to Income Protection to better support business continuity during illness or injury. Key updates include redesigned offsets for ongoing income, and updated waiting period rules that allow customers to undertake limited administrative tasks during the waiting period without affecting their eligibility.

These changes reflect the realities of business ownership, giving self-employed customers greater confidence that their cover will support them through recovery and help to keep their business running.

For more information visit TAL's TPD page. Advisers can contact their Business Development Manager for support or further enquiries.