Katie Couric Clause: How It Changes Super Splits in Australian Divorce (2025)

Heard about the ‘Katie Couric Clause’ and wondering how it’s about to shake up divorce settlements in Australia? As Canberra moves to close loopholes around superannuation splitting, this hotly-debated policy—named after a famous US case—could change the financial futures of thousands of Australians each year.

What Is the ‘Katie Couric Clause’?

The ‘Katie Couric Clause’ refers to proposed legislative changes in Australia that make it harder for one partner to hide or shield superannuation assets during divorce proceedings. The name comes from a high-profile case involving US journalist Katie Couric’s divorce, where hidden retirement assets became a flashpoint. In Australia, the clause aims to bring greater transparency and fairness to the process of dividing superannuation in a marital split.

From 2025, the Australian Government is set to enforce stricter disclosure requirements for super funds during divorce, following recommendations by the Australian Law Reform Commission and mounting pressure from advocacy groups. This means:

• Superannuation funds must provide up-to-date information directly to both parties and their lawyers, not just to the account holder.

• Failure to disclose or attempts to hide super assets may lead to penalties and adverse court rulings.

• The ATO’s Superannuation Information Sharing Scheme will be fully integrated into Family Court processes nationwide.

Why Is This Clause Needed in Australia?

For years, superannuation has been a ‘grey area’ in many Australian divorces. Unlike property or cash, super is often more difficult to track—especially if one partner is self-employed, changes jobs frequently, or holds multiple super accounts. According to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, up to 40% of divorce settlements involve some form of dispute over superannuation balances.

Recent high-profile court cases have highlighted how easily super assets can be concealed. In 2023, a Sydney woman discovered her ex-husband had transferred more than $150,000 into a self-managed super fund, undisclosed during their separation. Under the new rules, such maneuvers would be flagged and reported to both parties.

Key drivers behind the ‘Katie Couric Clause’ in Australia include:

• Ensuring women—who typically retire with 25-30% less super than men—aren’t disadvantaged in settlements.

• Closing legal loopholes that allow asset ‘hiding’ via complex super structures.

• Reducing lengthy, costly court disputes over superannuation disclosure.

What Does It Mean for Australians Going Through Divorce in 2025?

If you’re facing separation or divorce in 2025, the ‘Katie Couric Clause’ means your superannuation is likely to be scrutinised more closely than ever before. Here’s how it could affect you:

• More Transparent Settlements: Super balances will be automatically shared between parties, reducing the scope for surprises or ‘missing’ assets.

• Faster Court Processes: With the ATO and super funds providing real-time information, settlements should be resolved more efficiently.

• Potential for Penalties: Attempting to hide, transfer, or obscure super assets can now result in fines or less favourable settlement terms.

• Greater Equity: The policy especially benefits lower-income partners (often women), ensuring retirement savings are split more fairly.

For example, in a 2025 Melbourne Family Court case, a couple with $600,000 in joint super was able to reach an equitable split within weeks thanks to the new disclosure protocols—saving both time and significant legal fees.

How Can You Prepare for the Katie Couric Clause?

Whether you’re considering separation or already navigating the process, it pays to be proactive:

• Gather Documentation: Collect all your superannuation statements and check for any lost or inactive accounts via the ATO’s online portal.

• Check for Recent Transfers: Look for any unusual contributions or rollovers in the last 12-24 months.

• Consult a Family Law Expert: Make sure you understand your entitlements under the new rules, especially if your partner is self-employed or has multiple funds.

• Monitor for Policy Updates: The government is expected to release further guidance and updates as the legislation is finalised in late 2024 and early 2025.

The Bottom Line

The ‘Katie Couric Clause’ marks a major step forward for transparency and fairness in Australia’s superannuation system. By closing loopholes and making super splits more equitable, the policy aims to protect the financial futures of all Australians—especially those most at risk of being left behind after a divorce.