Access Superannuation for IVF
IVF can be very expensive. For many people — myself included — covering the full cost upfront just wasn’t going to be possible.
I knew I wanted to move forward with treatment, but I also knew I couldn’t do it by taking on additional debt. So I started looking at alternative ways to fund IVF.
In my research, I learned that it’s possible to apply to access your superannuation for IVF treatment. Super is intended for retirement, so this isn’t a decision to take lightly. It also isn’t the right option for everyone. I’m not suggesting it’s something you should do — only sharing what worked for me. If you’re considering this option, it’s important to speak with an accountant or financial advisor, particularly about how it might affect things like your Medicare levy or any HELP debt.
The cost of IVF in Australia varies widely. It depends on things like how many egg collections you need, whether you’re using a local or international donor, and the cost of medications, which, frankly, are shockingly expensive. For me, the total has added up to over $35,000.
After weighing up my options, accessing my super felt like the most manageable way to fund treatment without taking out a loan and paying interest.
I came across a company called Access My Super, which manages the application process with the ATO. Their service isn’t free — my total cost was just under $2,000 — but they handled all the paperwork and coordination, including booking the required psychologist appointment.
Here’s how it worked:
- I paid an initial application fee of $849.
- They arranged a short GP consult, which led to a referral to a psychologist.
- I had a 15-minute telehealth appointment with the psychologist during my work lunch break. The fee was $600.
- The psychologist prepared a report for my ATO application.
That was it. My only involvement was attending the GP and psychologist appointments. Everything else was handled for me.
Not long after, I received confirmation from the ATO that my application had been approved. The funds were released, and I finally had the money I needed to start my treatment. It removed one major source of stress and allowed me to focus on IVF itself.
Accessing my super gave me a way forward — without the constant weight of financial pressure sitting in the background.
📖 If you missed it, you can read my previous post about Initial Appointment: IVF and Donor Process.
💬 Next, I’ll be sharing more about My First IVF Counselling Session.
Disclaimer: This post reflects my personal experience only. I’m not a financial or tax advisor, and this isn’t intended as financial advice. Accessing superannuation can have financial and tax implications, including potential impacts on Medicare and any HELP debt. If you’re considering this option, it’s important to speak with a qualified accountant or financial advisor about your own circumstances.
