Key Reforms Effective 1 April 2025:
Superannuation Regulations Updated

A new set of regulations, the Family Law (Superannuation) Regulations 2025, came into effect on 1 April 2025. These replace the earlier 2001 regulations and introduce several important updates: 

• Valuation adjustments: The formulas and demographic/economic assumptions used to value superannuation interests have been modernised.
• Broader coverage: Now clearly includes innovative retirement income stream products within family law valuations.
• Clarified terminology: Definitions such as “base amount” and “component of a superannuation interest” have been refined for clarity.
• Improved flexibility: Allows non-member spouses more adaptable ways to provide information to trustees when involved in superannuation agreements or court orders.
• Expanded valuation scope: The Minister can now approve valuation methods for a wider range of superannuation interests.
• Transition provisions: A “transition factor” helps mitigate any unintended effects on superannuation agreements or court orders already in place before 1 April 2025.  

These changes enhance fairness and clarity in how superannuation assets are handled during family law proceedings.