Downsizer contribution measure eligibility has been extended

Downsizer contribution measure eligibility extension

The downsizer contribution concession was introduced to allow older Australians selling an eligible dwelling to make additional contributions into their superannuation fund.

Broadly, the downsizer contribution concession allows eligible individuals to make non-deductible contributions of up to $300,000 (or up to $600,000 per couple) from the sale of an eligible dwelling that was used as their main residence.

The downsizer contribution concession is an attractive option for eligible individuals to boost their superannuation entitlements, as it is not counted towards an individual’s standard contribution caps.

Also, the total superannuation balance restriction does not apply in respect of a downsizer contribution (so an eligible individual can make a downsizer contribution into their super fund, regardless of their total superannuation balance), and it is not included in the assessable income of the receiving fund.

However, there are various eligibility requirements that need to be satisfied in order for a downsizer contribution to be made, and professional advice should be sought in this regard as required.

Importantly, as from 1 January 2023, the Government has broadened access to the downsizer contribution concession by reducing the minimum age requirement for accessing this concession from age 60 to age 55.  This means that individuals aged 55 to 59 years who were not previously eligible to make downsizer contributions due to their age are now eligible to make downsizer contributions if they satisfy all the eligibility requirements.

Superannuation is one of those areas that can be compared to a cart on a rollercoaster. Its performance is constantly affected by the economic climate and shifting legislation that alters the benefits individuals and businesses can gain from superannuation funds. Read more here about how Omnis Group can help.

Related reading

Further eligibility age change for downsizer contributions

Justin Flavel

Managing Director

Justin’s experience spans across 20 years in accounting, financial analysis and general business practice.

Although born and bred on the land, Justin’s interest was more in spreadsheets, ledgers, and finance which led him to attend university. In 1992, Justin graduated with a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting and Finance. As well as qualifying as a CPA member and becoming a Fellow of the Taxation Institute of Australia, he began gaining practical experience in small and mid-tier accounting practices.

During the late 90s, Justin decided to expand his horizons and travel through Europe. It was during this time that he seized the opportunity to expand his knowledge on the workings of large organisations by taking on roles in multinational corporations.

Today, Justin’s passion is in facilitating businesses to grow and evolve. His focus is on acting in the role of business mentor to help clients develop the full potential of their businesses. He joins clients on their unique journey, and provides the tools and knowledge they need along the way to make the right decisions.

Justin’s aim for his clients parallels his own philosophy and personal journey—focusing on his own career growth and business success while maintaining balance in his life with his wife and three daughters.

Omnis Group Managing Director - Justin Flavel