What's Changing?

Aged Care Rules (from November 1 2025)

Aged care rules can be tricky to navigate. If you or a family member might need support, start by getting assessed through the government's My Aged Care service—they'll connect you with the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). We also offer specialist aged care advice for a fee. Ask your financial planner about access.

Payday Super (starts 1 July 2026)

If you’re still working, your employer contributions will now land in your super account around the same time you get paid. That means your super starts growing sooner.

Tax cuts (from 1 July 2026)

The lowest marginal tax rate drops from 16% to 15% (and down to 14% from 1 July 2027). It's a small win, but every bit helps.

Pension & Deeming rates increasing (20 March 2026)

A number of changes to social security payments, rates, and limits will commence from 20 March 2026. The lower deeming rate will be updated to 1.25% for financial assets under $64,200 for singles and $106,200 for couples combined, and the upper rate will be 3.25% for financial assets over these amounts.

Transfer Balance Cap increasing (1 July 2026)

The general Transfer Balance Cap (TBC) will increase by $100,000 to $2.1 million.

What to watch and act on

Carry-forward concessional contributions expiring soon

Any unused concessional contribution cap space from the 2020/21 financial year will expire if you don't use it by 30 June 2026.

Before contributing, consider the relevant superannuation thresholds including the current annual limit for all before-tax contributions and after-tax contributions. Exceeding any of these thresholds, may reduce any tax benefits you could receive.

Super rates and thresholds might change

The Australian Bureau of Statistics will release key wage (AWOTE) data in late February. This can lead to changes in contributions caps, bring forward thresholds, and total super balance.

The bottom line

These rules can get complex, and professional guidance makes a real difference. Your financial adviser can help you understand what's relevant to you, spot opportunities, and avoid unnecessary penalties, so your financial future stays on track.