MLC Life has paid a $1.4 million total and permanent disability (TPD) insurance claim to former AFL player Shaun Smith for brain damage caused by match concussions.

In a statement, the insurer says it received Mr Smith’s TPD claim in April.

“Following our assessment of his medical and employment circumstances we were pleased to admit his claim and make payment to his superannuation fund,” the insurer said.

“In reaching our decision, we considered the opinions of Mr Smith’s doctors about the impact of his medical condition and ability to return to work in the future and we were satisfied that Mr Smith met the relevant definition of TPD in the insurance policy.”

Mr Smith, 51, who played for North Melbourne and Melbourne, told ABC News the “historic” payout could make people take concussion in the sport more seriously.

He says his brain injury affected his moods and damaged his memory.

“I’m a pretty easy-going guy, and I was getting pretty angry at the drop of a hat,” he told the ABC. “Then I started forgetting a lot of things – my short-term memory especially was not flash.

“It doesn't make it much fun for people living around me.”

The AFL Players’ Association told insuranceNEWS.com.au it is pleased Mr Smith “was able to access significant financial support through an individual insurance policy he bought many years ago”.

“The players’ group insurance through superannuation is currently provided by Resolution Life, but players have the option to decide the best policy for their individual situation,” GM Legal and Player Affairs James Gallagher said.

“We’re currently in the process of conducting a review of our current policy to secure the best possible group coverage for our members.”