Generally speaking, it means that because of a sickness or injury, a person is unable to work in their own or any occupation for which they are suited by training, education, or experience.
Ballentine's Law Dictionary defines a permanent disability is one that "will remain with a person throughout" his or her lifetime, or he or she will not recover, or "that in all possibility, will continue indefinitely.
The maximum level of cover normally available with one insurer in Australia is generally $3 – $5 million with the oldest entry ages varying between 55 - 62.
For higher sums insured, additional medical verification including blood tests and reports from doctors is usually required.
The process of determining this involves a number of aspects with many claimants seeking professional advice by way of Financial Advisors and Lawyers.