AFCA is seeking feedback from members on changes to the AFCA Approach to superannuation death benefits.
The consultation period runs from Monday, 7 October 2024 to Friday, 25 October 2024. We encourage members to review the amended Approach document and provide their feedback by the deadline.
This revised Approach document includes minor clarifications to our existing guidelines on handling complaints about the distribution of superannuation death benefits. These changes ensure that our methods remain clear and effective without altering the fundamental principles.
The revised Approach also includes greater detail about:
- how AFCA applies definitions of terms such as ‘dependant’ and ‘spouse’
- he circumstances in which AFCA might consider it appropriate to include adult children and legal personal representatives in distributions
- trusts for minor children, and
- how AFCA approaches cases where there has been violence or abuse in a relationship, or a claimant has been involved in the death of the fund member.
By clarifying certain aspects of the existing Approach, we aim to make our processes more predictable for all parties involved, reducing the potential for disputes and misunderstandings.
AFCA Approach documents aim to provide greater clarity on what to expect from AFCA processes, ensuring that our investigations and decisions are transparent and consistent. They are informed by input from a broad range of stakeholders and are intended to support the efficient resolution of disputes.
Please submit your feedback by Friday, 25 October 2024. AFCA will review all submissions and publish the final updated Approach document later in the year.
For more details, including how to participate in the consultation, please visit the AFCA consultation page.
