Master the latest developments shaping TPD claims and leave with practical strategies you can apply immediately to achieve better outcomes for your clients. From the evolving interpretation of s.54 of the Insurance Contracts Act and the ongoing impact of Buckland on dates of disablement, to the unique challenges of running complex mental health TPD claims, this focused afternoon webinar will equip plaintiff lawyers with the legal updates, advocacy techniques and evidence-gathering strategies needed to navigate an increasingly complex claims landscape. Gain valuable insights from leading barristers and practitioners, strengthen your approach to difficult cases, and ensure you are well placed to maximise your clients’ prospects of success.

Presenters

Stephen Walsh, Barrister, Frederick Jordan Chambers
Fifteen years at the NSW Bar, during which Stephen has appeared in a range of civil and commercial matters, principally life insurance cases, contractual disputes, professional negligence, occupiers liability and property insurance disputes and taxation recovery matters. Prior to coming to the bar, Stephen had 14 years of experience as a solicitor/solicitor advocate specialising in general civil and commercial litigation, in particular product liability, professional negligence, building and construction, insurance policy disputes, contractual disputes, pollution/contamination claims, and health and safety prosecutions.

Melissa O’Neill, Senior Special Counsel, Shine Lawyers
Specialising in Plaintiff Litigation, Melissa has spent many years fighting against insurance companies and other large organisations to obtain justice for her clients. She was delighted to join the Superannuation and Disability Claims Team, who are determinedly focused on getting the best outcomes for clients, whom they treat like family. Melissa has seen what many of our clients go through. She has stood shoulder to shoulder with them and been there during some of their darkest times. Melissa feels that to be able to restore some of their dignity and self-respect that insurers have taken from them, is a great honor and privilege. As a Solicitor and Special Counsel, Melissa's role is a challenging but rewarding one. She has witnessed the courage of our clients and to be able to fight for them is a huge motivator and is definitely what keeps her going. It’s Melissa’s hope that the team continues with their great work in really going that extra mile. She promises that they will do everything possible to make sure you are well looked after and able to move on with your life.


Rebecca Nichols, Barrister, More Chambers
Rebecca Nichols has broad experience working in various practice areas since 2000 and specifically in commercial litigation, financial services, general insurance and personal injury disputes for the last 20 years. She commenced at the private Bar in 2010 and has continued her broad practice conducting both plaintiff and defendant litigation. In recent years, she has developed an extensive practice in superannuation and life insurance disputes. She appears in both State and Federal Courts and is also a regular advocate in alternative dispute resolution processes. Rebecca is a member of both the Australian Lawyers Alliance and Australian Insurance Lawyers Association.

Alicia Howitt, Special Counsel, Evolve Legal
Alicia Howitt is Special Counsel at Evolve Legal, bringing with her a decade of industry experience. She is highly proficient in all areas of the claims process, including appeals, litigation, and AFCA, with a particular focus on Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) claims and Income Protection/Salary Continuance. Alicia’s passion for personal injury law stems from her strong desire to help others. She is dedicated to guiding clients towards achieving the results they deserve, empowering them to regain control of their lives. With a natural ability to connect with clients, Alicia’s empathetic and open communication style enables her to gain a deep understanding of their circumstances and identify the best way forward. Recognising the challenges these claims can present, Alicia ensures that her clients are kept informed throughout the process, offering reassurance and peace of mind. Her clear and transparent communication fosters a supportive environment, helping clients feel confident at every stage.

Kym Mationg, Lawyer, Evolve Legal
Kym Mationg is a dedicated and compassionate lawyer who works within the total and permanent disability (TPD) team. She is a passionate advocate for individuals who have suffered from a variety of injuries and medical conditions. With extensive experience in TPD, compulsory third party (CTP), workers’ compensation, public liability and abuse law claims, Kym has developed a broad understanding of personal injury law. Her empathetic approach and commitment to securing the best possible outcomes for her clients is what sets her apart. In early 2024, Kym deepened her expertise in head trauma cases while serving as a Graduate Law Clerk at her previous firm. This experience provided her with valuable insights into complex injury claims and the obstacles clients face during their legal journey. Though she has worked in a wide range of personal injury matters, Kym finds TPD claims to be the most fulfilling aspect of her work, as they allow her to make a significant impact on her clients’ lives.