In general, superannuation does not form part of a deceased’s estate. This means that in most cases, it is not paid to the estate unless the deceased person made a valid binding nomination to his or her estate.
A nomination to your estate is usually made to your “legal personal representative”. Please be aware that binding nominations usually expire after a period of three years unless renewed.
Another interesting fact regarding Superannuation and life insurance, is that it cannot be used to pay estate debt and liabilities – section 205 of the Life Insurance Act 1995 (Cth). Superannuation and life insurance are “protected assets”.