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Superannuation scams  What are superannuation scams?
Superannuation scams are schemes which offer to give you early
access to your superannuation (‘early release’), often through a
self-managed super fund and/or for a fee.  You cannot legally
gain access to the ‘preserved’ part of your super until you
reach your ‘preservation’ age (ranging from 55 years old to 60,
depending on when you were born). There are certain exceptions,
such as severe financial hardship or compassionate grounds, but
anybody who otherwise offers you early access to your super is
acting illegally.  If you do access your super early for an
illegal reason, you may be subject to legal action and heavy
penalties (including tax). These offers may come from a
financial adviser (or someone posing as a financial adviser).
They promise you early access to your superannuation benefits
quickly and easily.  The scammers make their money by deceiving
your superannuation fund into paying out these b