Family law superannuation valuations

Superannuation assets can be divided between a separating couple, like other assets. Dividing superannuation assets is referred to as “super splitting”.

When superannuation is split between a separating couple, it is still subject to the standard restrictions around accessing superannuation. But funds can be moved from the superannuation account of one party into a separate superannuation account in the name of the other party.

When considering such a split of superannuation assets, there may however be some uncertainty concerning the value of a superannuation account. This is particularly true for defined benefit superannuation funds. The Family Law (Superannuation) Regulations 2001 and Family Law (Superannuation) (Methods and Factors for Valuing Particular Superannuation Interests) Approval 2003 provide methods for valuing superannuation assets.

Cumpston Sarjeant provides a range of superannuation valuation services for family law purposes. These include the valuation of: accumulation accounts and defined benefit accounts; interests in the growth phase and the payment phase; scheme specific valuation methods and factors, for funds such as the CSS, and DFRDB.