Cost is one of the biggest reasons people put off getting help. For many Australians, the answer is money they already have: their superannuation.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) can approve early release of super on compassionate grounds to pay for medical treatment, including treatment for addiction and mental health conditions. Holistic Recovery Bali has helped clients through this process, and we'll support you at every step.
This page is general information, not financial or tax advice. Eligibility is decided by the ATO.
Can I use my super for rehab?
You may be eligible if:
- You're a member of an Australian super fund
- You need treatment for an acute or chronic mental illness, which can include addiction and other substance use disorders
- Two medical reports support the treatment. One must come from a registered medical specialist in the relevant field (for addiction and mental health, usually a psychiatrist). The other can come from a GP or another specialist. Reports from psychologists, counsellors or other allied health professionals aren't accepted
- Each report was completed within the 6 months before you apply
- The treatment isn't readily available to you through the public health system
- You can't pay for it another way
The ATO looks at each application individually. Your GP is usually the best first conversation.
What super can pay for at HRB
Early release can cover our 28-day Tailored Retreat (IDR 346,000,000), our private, one-to-one addiction and mental health programme. If a longer stay is recommended, we'll quote it individually.
The Tailored Retreat includes:
- Assessment and a treatment plan built around you
- Medically supervised detox and stabilisation where needed
- Daily one-to-one therapy: CBT, DBT, trauma-informed counselling, relapse prevention
- 9D Breathwork, mindfulness, movement and nutrition from our on-site chef
- Family support where it helps
- A written aftercare plan for home
How the process works
- Free first call. We talk about what's going on and whether our Tailored Retreat is right for you.
- Your quote. We provide a formal treatment plan and invoice for the ATO application.
- Medical reports. Your GP and a specialist, usually a psychiatrist, each complete the ATO's medical report form confirming you need the treatment. Book these early, as specialist appointments can take time.
- Apply to the ATO. You apply online through myGov, attaching the reports and our quote.
- ATO decision. If approved, the ATO sends you and your super fund a release letter.
- Your fund pays. Your fund releases the approved amount, and we plan your arrival.
We'll help you prepare the documents and answer questions along the way.
Things to know
- Tax: released super may be taxed. Your fund or accountant can tell you how much.
- Insurance: withdrawing super can affect insurance held inside your fund. Check before you apply.
- Timing: the ATO says it normally decides online applications within about 14 days. Getting the two medical reports usually takes longer than the decision itself, so start there. If you need help urgently, tell us on your first call.
- Only what's needed: the ATO releases the amount needed for the treatment, not more.
Why use your super for treatment?
Super is there to protect your future. If addiction or mental illness is already putting your health, your work and your relationships at risk, treatment now is one of the most direct ways to protect that future.