The Albanese Government today will introduce the Treasury Laws Amendment (The Survivors Law) Bill 2026 which will prevent convicted child sexual abusers from hiding their assets in superannuation to avoid paying compensation to their victims.
These reforms improve transparency, reduce uncertainty, and strengthen the enforcement of court‑ordered compensation for victim‑survivors.
When passed, The Survivors Law will enable victims and survivors of child sexual abuse to apply for a court order to access additional personal or salary sacrifice superannuation contributions made by the offender where a related court order for compensation remains unpaid after 12 months.
Victim‑survivors will be able to apply to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), with appropriate safeguards, to identify any potential eligible superannuation prior to seeking access.
Unfulfilled historical compensation orders brought into existence before the measure’s commencement will be eligible if they remain legally enforceable and were awarded in relation to a criminal conviction or finding of guilt for child sexual abuse.
The reforms being introduced today include amendments to the Bankruptcy Act 1966 to allow compensation debts to survive an offenders’ bankruptcy.
The Government is committed to ensuring these reforms operate as intended and deliver meaningful outcomes. Accordingly, the operation of the law will be reviewed after full commencement to assess its effectiveness for victim‑survivors.
Survivors and advocates have long called for these important changes to ensure that victims of child sexual abuse receive the court ordered compensation they deserve and are entitled to.
Quotes attributable to the Attorney‑General, Michelle Rowland MP
“The Albanese Government is committed to holding perpetrators of abhorrent child sexual abuse to account.
“There can be no opportunity for criminals who are convicted of child sexual abuse to avoid paying compensation to their victims, and I look forward to this vital legislation delivering exactly that.
“My message to victim‑survivors is clear – we hear you, and we have your back.”
Quotes attributable to the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Daniel Mulino MP
“We have listened to the survivors and advocates who have a been calling for strong accountability and justice for a long time.
“The Albanese Government will establish the principle that convicted perpetrators cannot use the superannuation system to shield assets from lawful compensation orders.
“This bill represents a meaningful step forward for survivors of child sexual abuse. When passed, this bill will establish a foundation that can be built on in the future on as we continue to look for opportunities to improve outcomes, and attain justice, for survivors.”