Super splitting calculator (divorce & separation)

How super splitting actually works

1. You need a court order or binding financial agreement

Super is not split by verbal agreement. You need either consent orders approved by the Federal Circuit and Family Court, or a binding financial agreement signed by both parties with independent legal advice.

2. Three ways a split can be written

• Base amount split — a fixed $ amount transfers now
• Percentage split — a % of every future splittable payment transfers
• Flagging order — the balance is frozen until a later trigger event (e.g. member reaches preservation age), then split

3. Preservation rules still apply

The non-member spouse receives their split into their own super account (or new one). They can't withdraw it until they reach their own preservation age and meet a condition of release — same as any other super.

4. Insurance and tax components

Splitting does not transfer insurance cover. The tax-free / taxable component split is proportional — the receiving spouse inherits the same proportions the transferor had. Defined-benefit schemes split differently and need a valuation.

5. Get a valuation — especially for SMSFs and DB schemes

For SMSFs, an actuarial valuation is usually needed. For defined-benefit public-sector schemes, the notional balance used for family-law purposes can differ materially from the accumulation balance shown on a statement.

This calculator is a rough model, not legal or tax advice. Every separation has complexities (CGT on other assets, real estate, future earning capacity) that a calculator can't see. Before finalising any agreement, get advice from a family lawyer and a financial adviser.