Australian insurer TAL paid out A$4.7bn ($3bn) in claims over the last financial year (31 March 2024 to 31 March 2025) to 54,000 customers, according to figures released. Living insurance, including income protection and total and permanent disability cover, accounted for 74% of the total claims paid.
For the fourth consecutive year, mental health conditions were the leading cause of claims (21%), followed by cancer (17%) and injuries and fractures (15%).
“We insure people, helping them protect their families and standing with them through life’s toughest moments. Last year, TAL supported more Australians than ever before – offering financial and recovery support when it was most needed,” said TAL chief claims officer Georgina Croft.
"While these numbers are significant, our focus is the people they represent – Australians recovering from an illness or injury or dealing with loss. Each claim is a person, a family and a life impacted.”
Said Ms Croft, “We are also focused on supporting customers who are adjusting to life with an injury or illness, connecting them to personalised health recovery programs, including expert mental health support, if they need it.
“Life insurance gives people peace of mind, but we know it is especially valued in uncertain times.”
More Australians seeking health services and support, before and during a claim
More customers accessed health, wellbeing and recovery services over the last financial year.
“TAL is focused on connecting customers with the right health support, we want to empower their recovery,” said TAL general manager of health services Priya Chagan.
“Last year, our claims support and recovery programmes achieved an 80% return-to-health and work success rate, helping thousands of Australians get back to living their lives.”
Said Dr Chagan, “Hundreds of thousands of Australians also accessed preventative health information and support from us through Health for Life initiatives. We improved access to premium discounts for customers taking preventative health tests, and launched new online tools to help people take control of their health by identifying risks early and encouraging positive health practices.
“Growing participation in these initiatives highlights the importance Australians place on accessible, evidence-based tools to support their health and wellbeing.”