Zurich has introduced a total and permanent disability option that covers ongoing care requirements after a severe accident or illness.

It says the Continuous Care offering is designed to improve affordability compared with traditional TPD products, by allowing people to better structure their cover to meet their financial needs.

TPD cover provides a lump sum payment if a policyholder becomes totally and permanently disabled and is unable to work. Zurich says Continuous Care allows for a more tailored solution, providing specific cover if an insured has a severe accident or illness that requires ongoing support from a carer, who can be a professional or a family member. It also covers modification of a home or vehicle.

“Advancements in modern medicine, paired with significant changes to the make-up of Australia’s workforce, have led to almost 80% of Zurich TPD claims not requiring ongoing, continuous care,” head of retail Jacqui Lennon said.

“This landscape shift, paired with cost-of-living pressures, has created the need for a modern TPD solution that provides customers with more control over the structure and affordability of their cover.”