The downsizer contribution concession was introduced to allow older Australians selling an eligible dwelling to make additional contributions into their superannuation fund.
Broadly, the downsizer contribution concessional allows eligible individuals to make non-deductible contributions of up to $300,000 (or up to $600,000 per couple) from the sale of an eligible dwelling that was used as their main residence.
The downsizer contribution concession is an attractive option for eligible individuals to boost their superannuation entitlements, as it is not counted towards an individual’s standard contribution caps.
Also, the total superannuation balance restriction does not apply in respect of a downsizer contribution (so an eligible individual can make a downsizer contribution into their superannuation fund, regardless of their total superannuation balance), and it is not included in the assessable income of the receiving fund.
However, there are various eligibility requirements that need to be satisfied in order for a downsizer contribution to be made, and professional advice should be sought in this regard as required.
Importantly, as from 1 January 2023, the Government has broadened access to the downsizer contribution concession by reducing the minimum age requirement for accessing this concession from age 60 to age 55. This means that individuals aged 55 to 59 years who were not previously eligible to make downsizer contributions due to their age are now eligible to make contributions if they satisfy all the eligibility requirements.