Super Detective

The reported figure is the approximate amount a person should have in superannuation now to reach the ASFA Comfortable Standard balance by age 67, assuming a future pre-tax wage income of $65,000 per annum (see below for other assumptions). The Comfortable Standard balance—which is the lump sum required for a comfortable retirement—is $595,000, in today’s dollars. The lump sum required for a comfortable retirement assumes that the retiree will draw down all their capital, and receive a part Age Pension.

The reported figure is intended for illustrative purposes only. It should not be relied upon for making financial or product related decisions. This information is of a general nature only. The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia Limited (ASFA) ABN 29 002 786 290 does not accept any liability, either direct or indirect, arising from any person relying, either wholly or partially, upon any information provided by, resulting from, shown in, or omitted from, this calculator. Under no circumstances will ASFA be liable for any loss or damage caused by a user’s reliance on information obtained using this calculator.

Assumptions: Pre-tax wage income of just under $65,000 per annum. The Superannuation Guarantee contribution rate increases in line with current law, from 9.5% to 12% in 2025-26. Contributions tax is deducted at the rate of 15%. Investment returns (nominal), before investment fees and taxes, are 6.7% (investment fees are 0.7 per cent of assets, and the tax rate is 4.5 per cent). Administration fees are $100 per annum. Insurance premiums are $100 per annum.

The reported figure assumes that the person has a full year until his/her next birthday, and thus will receive a full year of Superannuation Guarantee contributions before his/her next birthday. Specifically, it is assumed that a person is born on 1 July (in a particular financial year), and the reported figure is the balance on the person’s birthday.

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia Limited ABN 29 002 786 290