What happens to my Super money?

Money in your super fund account is invested by your super fund. Most super funds offer a variety of investment options. These usually include pre-mixed options that will contain a mix of different asset classes, and single sector options such as cash, property and shares.​

Your investment returns will impact how quickly your super grows so it's important to choose an investment option that is appropriate for your investment timeframe and tolerance for market fluctuations.​

If you have more than one super fund you can combine them to save fees and make it easier to keep track of your super.​

When you retire your super can be taken as a lump sum, a regular income stream, or a combination of both. If you choose to take your super as a retirement income stream, the money that you're not accessing continues to work for you and earn interest.

When can I access my Super?

If you retire and have reached your preservation age you can withdraw your super. The table below shows when you can access your super, according to when you were born.

Your Date of Birth Age you can access your Super
(Preservation Age)
Before 1st July 1960
55
1st July 1960 - 30th June 1961
56
1st July 1961 - 30th June 1962
57
1st July 1962 - 30th June 1963
58
1st July 1963 - 30th June 1964
59
From 1st July 1964
60

Understanding how super works can help you make the most of it, whether you are just starting out, are close to retirement or have already retired. Learn the basics and you can become your own super hero.