What was debated in Parliament
Summarised using AI from the official Hansard transcript of the debate only. It is not a record of the debate and may leave things out. Read the Hansard below to check it.
This private senator's bill, introduced by Coalition Senator Jane Hume, would let couples voluntarily move money from the partner with the larger super balance to the other partner, to even up their balances. It includes limits so balances are only evened up and caps are not exceeded. The debate focused on whether it would help close the gap between women's and men's super, or mainly help wealthier couples.
Arguments made in support
Coalition senators said women retire with 20 to 25 per cent less super, often after time out of work caring for children or family.
Supporters said couples can already split super when they divorce, so they should be able to do it while together.
Coalition speakers said the plan is voluntary, uses existing rollover rules, costs taxpayers nothing and has safeguards against tax gaming.
Supporters said it could help older women, who are the fastest growing group facing homelessness, and works for any couple whichever partner earns more.
One Nation said it supported the bill because it supports families and lets couples manage their savings together.
Arguments made against, or for changes
Labor senators said the bill would mostly benefit a small number of wealthy couples and could be used to lower tax.
Government senators said it would not help single women, including older single women most at risk of poverty in retirement.
Labor said it leaves women relying on their partner, and that measures like super on paid parental leave tackle the causes of the gap.
The Greens said it would not fix structural problems such as low-income earners getting smaller tax benefits on super, and could complicate splits at separation.
A Labor senator said it could allow gaming of preservation rules and social security eligibility.
39 speeches by 19 members in the Senate over 4 sitting days.
Hansard: Senate, 4 Sept 2025 ›
The official Hansard (PDF), Parliament of Australia
Hansard: Senate, 5 Nov 2025 ›
The official Hansard (PDF), Parliament of Australia
Hansard: Senate, 13 May 2026 ›
The official Hansard (PDF), Parliament of Australia
Hansard: Senate, 24 June 2026 ›
The official Hansard (PDF), Parliament of Australia
Australia's Voice
0 Yes
0 No
1–
The last column counts members who did not vote. Party counts are for current members.
2 votes were cast by people who have since left Parliament.
Every party member who voted went with the majority of their party.