Accessing Early Release of Superannuation to Fund Weight loss Surgery

As access to public hospital weight loss surgery is poor, uninsured patients can access their superannuation to help pay for bariatric surgery. This is appropriate in selected cases (high BMI with weight related comorbidities). Insured and Uninsured patients can access Superannuation under compassionate medical grounds to pay for all out of pockets associated with weight loss surgery.  Applications require a form to be completed by Dr Reza Adib and your GP stating these facts. Ask our friendly staff for assistance.

Who can apply for Early Release of Superannuation?

  • Patients undergoing a Gastric Sleeve/ Sleeve Gastrectomy or Gastric Bypass procedure
  • Patients who have no other way to pay eg. savings
  • Patients with adequate superannuation funds to access (see costs for uninsured patients)
  • Patients with a superannuation company that allow early release of their superannuation

I don’t have enough Superannuation, can I access another persons?

Yes. In most cases you can also access the superannuation of your spouse, partner, child or other dependant.

What will I need to access my Superannuation?

  • A MyGov account 
  • An ATO account linked to your MyGov account
  • An application form completed by Dr Reza Adib (supplied at your consultation)
  • An application form completed by GP. (Supplied by our rooms after the surgery is booked in)

What do I need to do before my consultation?

  • Call / Log in to the Superannuation fund and ensure you have adequate funds to access
  • Ensure your ATO account and MyGov is up to date

How long does it take to access Superannuation?

The entire process takes approximately 3 – 6 weeks to be approved and paid. Please keep in mind that there can be delays with approving your Superannuation with the Australian Taxation Office.

How soon can I book my surgery If I go through Superannuation?

Surgery is usually booked 4 – 6 weeks in advance. Full payment is required 2 weeks prior to surgery.

Can I pay for my surgery and then claim the money back from my Superannuation?

No, Early Release of Superannuation is for unpaid costs only. 

What do I need to bring to my consultation?

  • Referral from your General Practitioner
  • Medicare card
  • $500 administration fee

Application forms required for Early Release of Superannuation will be supplied after your consultation along with detailed instructions. $500 administration fee is required to release these forms.

Will the money I access from my superannuation be taxed by the Government?

Yes, the government does tax a certain percentage of the amount withdrawn. To clarify this further please contact the ATO on 13 28 61.

Will this affect my Centrelink benefits?

This may or may not affect any current payments you are receiving from Centrelink for the financial year. This will depend on your individual circumstances. Please contact the Department of Human Services if you would like more information.

Do I still need to complete an application if I have a self-managed account?

Yes, you will still need to complete an application as you will require approval from the ATO to access your superannuation funds.

What happens if I cancel my surgery after my Superannuation funds have been released?

If you cancel your surgery after you have been approved for your superannuation, and those funds have been released to you, we are legally obliged to write to the ATO and advise them. The ATO will then contact you in this regard.

Are people commonly accepted when applying for Early Release of Superannuation?

99% of Brisbane Obesity Clinic patients are approved for Early Release of Superannuation. Our staff go through the application process in detail to make sure our patients are applying correctly. We will supply step by step instructions at your consultation to simplify the application process.

Read more about applying for early release of superannuation for medical treatment here

Find out about more information on the obesity services provided: