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Early release of super on compassionate grounds

While it’s generally true that the money you have invested in super is locked away until you retire, there is some wiggle room in the rules to show compassion.

You may be able to access your super early on compassionate grounds provided you meet strict eligibility conditions and your super fund allows it. If it doesn’t, you may be able to transfer your super to one that does.

This condition of release allows the early payment of some of your super for specified compassionate reasons.

Good to know: Previously, compassionate grounds claims were assessed by Services Australia. This responsibility was transferred to the ATO from 1 July 2018, but Services Australia can help you if you need written proof you’ve been getting income support payments from them.

What is covered under ‘compassionate grounds’?

Compassionate grounds can include any of the following:

Paying for medical treatment or transport for you or your dependant (such as your spouse or child)

The medical treatment can’t be readily available through the public health system. The associated medical condition must also be life threatening, or it must generate acute/chronic pain or mental illness.

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