Division 296 Super Tax: What the Proposed Rules Mean for High-Balance Funds
- Thresholds & Tax Rates: A 15% additional tax (30% total) applies to earnings on balances between $3 million and $10 million, while earnings on balances over $10 million face an additional 25% (40% total). Both thresholds are indexed.
- Realised Earnings: The tax focuses on realised earnings (not unrealised gains) and is based on a specific formula involving the taxable income of the fund, excluding non-arm’s length income.
- Assessment: The tax is levied on individuals, not the super fund, with options to pay from personal assets or release funds from super.
- Status: The Bill passed the Senate on Tuesday 10th March 2026.
Division 296 Key Considerations
- Timing: The tax applies to the 2026/27 financial year, with the first potential tax liability arising on 1 July 2027.
- Threshold Calculation: The $3 million threshold is tested using the higher of the start or end-of-year balance (subject to transitional rules).
- Impact: Primarily affects individuals with high superannuation balances (typically >$3M).
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