Author: KaraATO(Community Support)Community Support 5 May 2026
Hi @Joannadowney,
The online application form requires an Australian medical practitioner registration number because the system is designed to verify Australian-registered practitioners. When your doctor is based overseas and doesn't have an Australian registration number, you won't be able to complete the online application.
In this situation, you'll need to use the paper application form instead. The paper form for compassionate release of super should allow you to provide medical evidence from overseas practitioners without needing to enter an Australian registration number in an online field. You can download the updated paper application form and mail your completed application with all supporting documents including your UK doctor's medical report.
Before you apply, you should confirm with your super fund that they'll release your super early on compassionate grounds and that you have sufficient money in your account to cover both the expense and the tax withholding amount (which is generally up to 32% of the amount being withdrawn).
Keep in mind that if you're currently a temporary resident and have never been an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen, you won't be eligible for compassionate release. In that case, you'd claim your super as a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP) instead.
You can download the paper application form from the how to apply for release of super on compassionate grounds page on our website. Complete the form, attach your UK medical evidence and any other required documents, and send it to us by post.
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