Default cover and insurer
Hostplus is the industry super fund for hospitality, tourism, recreation and sport in Australia. Members typically receive Death and TPD cover automatically (subject to the Putting Members' Interests First and Protecting Your Super rules around opt-in for younger members and low balance accounts). Cover is underwritten by MetLife Insurance Limited.
Indicative default cover amounts (always check your Annual Statement for actuals):
| Age | Indicative default TPD cover |
|---|---|
| 25 | $80,000 – $160,000 |
| 35 | $130,000 – $250,000 |
| 45 | $120,000 – $230,000 |
| 55 | $60,000 – $120,000 |
Members can apply for additional Voluntary Insurance up to substantially higher levels, subject to underwriting by MetLife Insurance Limited.
The TPD definition that applies to you
The standard definition is "Any Occupation". The policy includes specific provisions for members who weren't in active employment at the time of disablement — these typically use an Activities of Daily Living (ADL) test. Read your most recent Insurance Booklet for the exact wording that applies to your circumstances.
How to claim
- Notify Hostplus via the member portal or by phone
- Hostplus sends a claim pack — member statement, employer statement, doctor's reports, authorities
- Complete forms with supporting medical evidence
- MetLife Insurance Limited assesses against the policy definition (typically 3 to 6 months once full evidence is in)
- The Hostplus trustee independently reviews and decides
- Approved claims pay out subject to condition of release
If your claim is declined
Common reasons Hostplus TPD claims are declined:
- Insurer's view that you can perform alternative non-hospitality work — particularly for back/shoulder injury claims
- Mental health claims declined for insufficient evidence of permanence
- Disputed date of last work due to casual or seasonal employment patterns
- Pre-existing condition exclusions on voluntary cover
Internal dispute resolution gives Hostplus 45 days to respond. Then escalate to AFCA if needed. See our guide to rejected TPD claims.
Hostplus-specific tips
- Document casual employment carefully. Hospitality work patterns are commonly contested — payslips, roster screenshots, and bank deposits showing wages are all useful.
- Voluntary cover — many longer-term members have voluntary cover they've forgotten about. Check the Insurance tab in the member portal.
- Multi-fund claims — hospitality workers commonly hold accounts at AustralianSuper, Rest, and Hostplus simultaneously. Check all funds before lodging anywhere.
- Mental health claims — high-pressure industries see many mental health TPD claims. Detailed psychiatric reports and treating GP notes addressing function-over-time are critical.