Life Insurance for Teachers in Australia

As a teacher, you dedicate your career to supporting students — but have you considered how your family would be supported if something unexpected happened to you? At Covermate Life, we work with multiple insurers (AIA, MLC, TAL, Zurich, MetLife, OnePath, ClearView) to help teachers find cover that suits their profession and lifestyle.

​

This page provides general advice only and aims to outline the factors teachers should consider when looking at life insurance.

​

Why Teachers Need Life Insurance

While teaching isn’t generally classified as a high-risk occupation, educators face:

• Financial responsibilities such as mortgages, family expenses, and education costs.

• Workplace stress and burnout, which insurers may consider when assessing health.

• Income protection needs in case illness or injury prevents you from teaching.

• Superannuation-based cover that may be limited or not enough for your family’s needs.

​

Types of Cover to Consider

• Life Insurance (Lump Sum): Provides a financial safety net for your family.

• TPD (Total & Permanent Disability) Cover: Protects you if you can’t return to work due to permanent disability.

• Income Protection Insurance: Replaces a portion of your salary if illness or injury keeps you away from the classroom.

• Trauma/ Critical Illness Cover: Pays a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a specified illness (e.g. cancer, heart attack).

​

Benefits of Using a Broker

Teachers often default to the insurance provided in super, which can be basic or insufficient. As a broker, Covermate Life:

• Compares policies across multiple insurers.

• Helps structure cover inside and outside super.

• Explains differences in waiting periods, benefit amounts, and exclusions.

• Provides tailored guidance without tying you to one insurer.

​

Next Steps

If you’re a teacher looking to review or compare your life insurance, get in touch with our team today.

 

Back to Life Insurance by Occupation

​

FAQ 

Q: Is the default insurance in my teacher super fund enough?
A: Many teachers have default cover through their super, but this is often a basic level of protection. It’s worth checking if it meets your actual family’s needs.

​

Q: Will teaching affect my premiums?
A: Generally, teaching is considered low-risk compared to trades or medical professions, so premiums are usually competitive. Your health and age often have a bigger impact than occupation.

​

Q: Can casual or part-time teachers apply?
A: Yes, both full-time and casual teachers can apply for cover. Income protection may require proof of consistent income over time.

​

Q: Can I hold my cover inside super?
A: Yes, but outside-super cover often provides more flexibility in policy features. Many teachers use a combination of both.