Compassionate Grounds
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) must be satisfied that your application for early release of superannuation meets the criteria of 'specified compassionate grounds'. These grounds are as follows:
- Medical Treatment
To help pay for medical costs required to treat a life-threatening illness or injury, to alleviate acute or chronic pain, or to alleviate an acute or chronic mental disturbance - refers to you or your dependant/s. APRA must be satisfied that the relevant treatment is not readily available through the public health system. - Medical transport
To assist with the cost of transportation to and from medical treatment by land, water or air to treat a life-threatening illness or injury, to alleviate acute or chronic pain, or to alleviate an acute or chronic mental disturbance - refers to you or your dependant/s. - Modifications to your home and/or motor vehicle
To fund specific modifications that are necessary to accommodate special needs arising from a severe disability and which are certified by your doctor - refers to you or your dependant/s. - Funeral assistance
To assist with funeral and other expenses related to the death of a family member - refers only to your dependant/s. - Palliative care
To provide care for a person who is dying from a terminal illness, including home care - refers to you or your dependant/s. - Mortgage assistance
To prevent your mortgagee (lender) from selling your principal place of residence - refers only to you.
APRA may also consider the early release of superannuation benefits in cases where the circumstances are ‘consistent with' the criteria listed under ‘specified compassionate grounds'. Please contact APRA on 1300 13 10 60 for further information or to discuss your particular circumstances.
If your circumstances meet those outlined for the early release of superannuation benefits on 'specified compassionate grounds' you must complete an APRA application form. The form includes a checklist of the information needed to support your application. Please ensure you include all supporting documentation; APRA will otherwise be unable to process your application.
You should contact APRA on 1300 13 10 60 for an application form or for further information.
