The Super Legacy – Avoiding Disputes and Managing Death Benefits

  • Presentations, Technical Resource
  • Death benefits

National Conference 2025

With the rising value of superannuation in individuals’ estates, disputes and litigation over superannuation death benefits have become increasingly common, especially within blended families. This interactive workshop will explore the complexities of death benefits and estate planning within SMSFs, focusing on ensuring superannuation is passed to the intended beneficiaries.
 
Participants will gain practical insights through real-life case studies, learning how to navigate the critical interplay between trust law principles, tax laws and superannuation requirements following the death of an SMSF member. The workshop will also highlight the vital role of estate planning documents—such as wills, BDBNs, and trust deeds—in determining the outcome of disputes. Strategies for minimising tax on death benefit payments and preventing costly complications for trustees and beneficiaries will also be covered.
 
Led by Jemma, this session will provide a holistic approach to SMSF death benefits and estate planning, ensuring attendees understand how to align superannuation objectives with estate plans and achieve optimal client outcomes.

The contents of this resource are taken to be correct at the time of publication.

Disclaimer: Technical Papers contain general advice only and are prepared without taking into account particular objectives, financial circumstances and needs. The information provided is not a substitute for legal, tax and financial product advice. Before making any decision based on this information, you should assess its relevance to the individual circumstances of your client. While the SMSF Association believes that the information provided is accurate, no warranty is given as to its accuracy and persons who rely on this information do so at their own risk. The information provided in this bulletin is not considered financial product advice for the purposes of the Corporations Act 2001. © SMSF Association