Do I need an actuary for super in a family law settlement?
Not always. A simple accumulation account valued at today's balance may not need one. You usually do need one when you want to prove what was brought into the relationship, when there's a defined benefit interest, or when the other side disputes the figures.
Written by Yiannis (John) Tellyros, AIAA, Consulting Actuary. Reviewed 26 September 2026 (against the Family Law (Superannuation) Regulations 2025). General information only, not legal advice.
When you probably don't
Both parties have ordinary accumulation accounts, the relationship started with little super on either side, and the balances aren't disputed.
When you probably do
You brought a meaningful balance into the relationship and want it weighed as a s 79(4)(a) contribution.
Either party has a defined benefit interest (CSS, PSS, MSBS, state schemes) or a pension in payment.
The matter is headed to mediation or court and the numbers need to withstand scrutiny.
What a court-ready report needs
Expert evidence must comply with the Expert Witness Code of Conduct in Chapter 7 of the FCFCOA (Family Law) Rules 2021. That includes the expert's duty to the Court, disclosure of assumptions and sources, and qualifications. Questions to a single expert are asked in writing under r 7.26.
Sources
Get the number for your matter
One fixed-fee report: A$495 + GST (A$544.50 inc. GST), signed by a qualified actuary, usually within 5 business days.*
*When the correct member statement and cohabitation balance are supplied on day one.