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Below is Chapter 13 of our ‘Special Disability Trusts’ booklet. To read the other chapters of our booklet, click the links below:
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- Chapter 1 – What is an SDT?
- Chapter 2 – What are the requirements of an SDT?
- Chapter 3 – What can an SDT pay for?
- Chapter 4 – What are the eligibility criteria of an intended beneficiary?
- Chapter 5 – Do you need medical reports confirming the disability?
- Chapter 6 – What are the advantages of an SDT?
- Chapter 7 – What is the effect of the gifting concession?
- Chapter 8 – What is the effect of the assets test assessment exemption?
- Chapter 9 – Are there beneficial taxation consequences?
- Chapter 10 – What are the administrative requirements of an SDT?
- Chapter 11 – Are there investment restrictions on an SDT?
- Chapter 12 – What are the ongoing obligations of an SDT?
Please note that the information in this booklet is current as at the 2026/2027 financial year.
SDTs are subject to complex rules and limitations, but they do have the potential to provide real benefit in certain situations. SDTs are not a ‘one size fits all’ solution, and accordingly whether an SDT is right for you will depend entirely on your unique circumstances.
However, if you say ‘yes’ to the following questions, then an SDT may be a good solution for you:
- Does the proposed beneficiary have a severe disability that has been confirmed by Services Australia?
- Do you (or other immediate family members) have a level of assets that will make a difference to the care and accommodation arrangements for the proposed beneficiary?
- Are you looking for a tax-effective way to gift assets for the benefit of the proposed beneficiary?
What next?
If you think an SDT may be a good option for you, please contact us to discuss your situation and the assistance we can provide in establishing an SDT for you. Call us on 1300 654 590 or email us at wehelp@adlvlaw.com.au to get started.
The information contained in this post is current at the date of editing – 28 July 2026.