For Australians considering treatment
Your Super Could Help Fund Your Recovery.
If cost is making treatment feel out of reach, you may have another option. Eligible Australians can apply to access super early on compassionate grounds - and we help make the process clear, supported and manageable.
- Keep your current cash available
- Guidance through every step
- No commitment to ask
-
Keep your current
cash available -
Guidance through
every step -
No commitment
to ask
A possible way forward
Do not let the upfront cost make the decision for you
When you know you need help, paying for private treatment can feel like one more impossible thing to solve. Even if you have savings, using a large amount of current cash may make it harder to step away from work, support your family or feel secure while you recover.
For some Australians, early access to superannuation can help cover eligible treatment costs. It may allow you to begin sooner while keeping more of your day-to-day money available.
You do not need to understand the rules before speaking with us. Start with one confidential conversation. We will explain the treatment cost, introduce the application support available and help you understand the next step.
Using super may be worth exploring if:
- You are an Australian with sufficient super
- You need treatment for alcohol, drugs or related mental health concerns
- Paying from current cash would delay treatment or create pressure
- You want help coordinating the paperwork and evidence
You are supported through it
We take care of the parts we can
The formal application must be submitted by you, and approval can never be guaranteed. But that does not mean you are left to work everything out alone.
Foundations provides the treatment proposal and quote. We can connect you with our independent partner, Release My Super, who guides you through the evidence, medical reports and application steps. You remain informed and in control, while experienced support keeps the process moving.
- Clear document checklist
- Help coordinating medical reports
- Treatment quote prepared
- Application guidance
How it works
A straightforward path from first call to application
There are a few formal steps, but you do not need to manage them without guidance. We help make each stage clear and keep treatment planning moving alongside the application.
01
Start with a private conversation
02
We help organise the evidence
Small, supported groups help you feel less alone, learn from shared experience and practise honest connection at a pace that feels manageable.
03
You submit your application
04
The ATO and your fund decide
Start with the question
Could my super make treatment possible?
You do not need to decide today. Tell us what is happening and we will help you understand the treatment cost, whether this pathway may be worth exploring and what would happen next.
Using super for treatment
The questions people ask first
We will answer questions in plain language and without pressure. These answers are general information only, because eligibility and approval depend on your circumstances and current ATO rules.
Can super really be used to pay for rehab?
Eligible Australians may be able to apply for early release of super on compassionate grounds to pay for qualifying medical treatment. Approval is case by case and is determined by the ATO and your super fund.
Do I have to be in financial hardship?
Compassionate release and severe financial hardship are different pathways. The relevant pathway depends on your circumstances. A confidential initial conversation can help identify what information you need before applying.
Will Foundations submit the application for me?
No. A compassionate-release application must be submitted by the individual. Foundations and our independent partner can make the process much easier by guiding you, coordinating the treatment documents and helping you understand what is required.
What documents are usually required?
The ATO requires evidence to support medical-treatment applications, including medical reports and a quote or invoice. The exact evidence depends on the application and current ATO requirements.
How long does approval take?
Timing varies and cannot be guaranteed. It depends on how quickly the supporting evidence is completed, the ATO assessment and your super fund's processing. We help you prepare properly so avoidable delays are less likely.
Can I use super to fund treatment for someone I love?
In some circumstances, compassionate release may be available for eligible expenses for a dependant. This is assessed under ATO rules and requires evidence of the relationship and medical need.
Does applying commit me to treatment?
No. You can first ask about eligibility, the process and treatment costs. We will explain the options clearly before you make any commitment.
Important information
Early release of superannuation on compassionate grounds is administered by the Australian Taxation Office. Eligibility and approval are not guaranteed, and your super fund may have additional requirements. Release My Super is an independent partner.
This page provides general information only and is not financial, legal or medical advice. Consider seeking independent financial advice, including about tax, insurance and the long-term effect of withdrawing super early.
What happens when you reach out
One conversation. A clearer next step.
01
We listen
Tell us what has been happening, in your own words and at your own pace.
02
We talk through your options
Ask anything you need to know about treatment, timing, costs, detox or coming to Bali.
03
We plan the next step
If Foundations feels right, we help make the process of getting here clear and manageable.
A private first step
Talk to Someone Who Understands
You do not need to be ready to commit. Speak with someone who understands addiction, ask your questions and find out whether Foundations may be right for you.
