Superannuation Calculator 2025-26

As a rough guide, ASFA (Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia) suggests the following benchmark super balances by age: Age 30: ~A$45,000 | Age 40: ~A$120,000 | Age 50: ~A$250,000 | Age 60: ~A$420,000. To fund a comfortable retirement (ASFA standard of ~$72,000/year for couples), you need around A$690,000 at retirement. These figures are guides only — your target depends on your lifestyle goals.

Salary sacrifice means asking your employer to redirect a portion of your pre-tax salary into your super fund. These contributions are taxed at just 15% inside super — well below most people's marginal income tax rate (19–45%). For example, if you're in the 32.5% tax bracket and salary sacrifice $10,000/year, you save $1,750 in tax compared to receiving it as salary. It also counts toward the concessional contributions cap of $30,000 per year.

You can generally access your superannuation when you reach your preservation age and retire, or turn 65 (even if still working). The preservation age is currently 60 for anyone born after 30 June 1964. You can access it as a lump sum, an income stream (account-based pension), or a combination. Super withdrawals after age 60 are generally tax-free. Early access is allowed in limited circumstances such as severe financial hardship or terminal illness.