✦ Plain-English Summary

Defence Legislation Amendment (Miscellaneous Measures) Bill 2020

What it does

This bill makes two main changes to defence-related laws. First, it extends the time ADF members have to repay loans under the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme from 2 years to 5 years. Second, it adjusts superannuation rules for Australian Defence Force members to align with broader superannuation regulations.

Why it matters

Giving defence personnel longer to repay home loans makes it easier for them to manage their finances without the pressure of a tight repayment deadline. The superannuation changes ensure ADF members' retirement savings follow the same rules as other Australians.

Key details

• The 2-to-5 year change: ADF members who need to repay assistance loans now have 5 years instead of 2 years to do so—this gives people much more breathing room financially.
• Who's affected: Current and future Defence Force members using the home ownership scheme, plus anyone with ADF superannuation accounts.
• When it kicks in: Most changes took effect the day after the bill received Royal Assent, though the home ownership changes had a 28-day delay to give people time to adjust.

Official Description

Amends the: Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme Act 2008 to extend the period after a member leaves the Australian Defence Force (ADF) within which they can access the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme, from two to five years; Australian Defence Force Superannuation Act 2015 to enable former ADF members, who have provided at least 12 months of service, to continue to make contributions to their ADF Super accounts; and Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 to require ADF Super to obtain relevant insurance products for ADF Super members who are no longer serving in the ADF.

No formal division recorded

This bill passed by voice vote — parliament agreed without calling a formal count. A division is only recorded when a member explicitly requests one.

No votes yet.

No votes were recorded for this bill.