Get reliable information about life insurance in Australia and connect with qualified advisers who understand your unique protection needs.
Life insurance can feel complicated, but this site is designed to make it easier. You can explore plain-language guides, use the search bar to find answers fast, or explore FAQs and resources. And when you’re ready, you can connect with a qualified adviser to get help tailored to you.
This section breaks life insurance down into everyday language. Explore the different cover types, common questions, and practical things to know – all designed to help you feel more confident before making decisions.
Pays a lump sum to your family following death or terminal illness. For example, a life cover payout could clear your home loan and provide living expenses for your family.
Pays a lump sum if you become totally and permanently disabled and unable to work. TPD benefits can help cover medical costs and support your family.
Replaces part of your income (usually up to 70% of your pre-tax income) if you can't work due to illness or injury. Helps you meet daily expenses.
Pays a lump sum if you're diagnosed with a major illness like cancer, heart attack, or stroke. The payout helps with medical costs and living expenses while you recover.
Understanding the process of obtaining life insurance is the first step toward securing your financial future.
Understand what coverage types and amounts would best protect you and your family.
Get personalised recommendations from a qualified financial adviser who specialises in insurance.
Review different options with your adviser to find the best coverage for your circumstances.
Complete the application process with your adviser’s guidance to secure your coverage.
Get answers to common questions about life insurance
The amount of cover needed varies based on your personal circumstances. Consider factors such as outstanding debts (including mortgage), income replacement needs for dependants, education expenses for children, and funeral costs. A financial adviser can help calculate the appropriate amount for your situation.
To make a start – take a look at the Needs Calculator in the Resources area, along with the Life Insurance Needs Worksheet.
Life insurance inside your super can be a handy starting point, but it usually only offers a basic level of cover. The default amounts are often much lower than what most families would actually need, and the policies can come with restrictions on when and how you can claim.
It’s worth checking whether your super cover is enough by asking:
Would it clear major debts like the mortgage?
Would it replace your income for as long as your family needs?
Does it include the right types of cover (for example, TPD or income protection)?
In many cases, the answer is no. It’s wise to review your super insurance and consider whether topping up your cover or adding additional cover outside super would give you better protection.
Stepped premiums start lower but increase as you age, typically annually. Level premiums remain more consistent throughout the policy term, starting higher than stepped but potentially costing less in the long run if you maintain the policy for many years. The right choice depends on your budget, age, and how long you plan to keep the coverage.
Note: Recent industry changes have updated this terminology. However your existing policy might still use older terms of “stepped” and “level” premiums. read more in the Glossary (resources section).
Not always. Many policies can be issued based on your answers to health questions. However, factors such as age, coverage amount, pre-existing conditions, or family medical history may trigger the need for medical examinations or tests. Some insurers offer guaranteed acceptance policies without medical exams, but these typically have lower coverage limits and higher premiums.
Explore our collection of guides, articles, and tools to help you make informed insurance decisions.
Explore our collection of guides, articles, and tools to help you make informed insurance decisions.