How Much Super Should I Have?
Superannuation benchmarks by age to help you track your retirement savings. See where you stand and how to catch up if needed.
Quick Summary
Targets for a comfortable retirement (ASFA standards)
Super Benchmarks by Age
Compare your super balance to these benchmarks. "On Track" assumes you want a comfortable retirement at 67.
| Age | Median | Comfortable | On Track |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | $15,000 | $25,000 | $30,000 |
| 30 | $45,000 | $75,000 | $90,000 |
| 35 | $75,000 | $135,000 | $165,000 |
| 40 | $110,000 | $210,000 | $260,000 |
| 45 | $150,000 | $300,000 | $380,000 |
| 50 | $190,000 | $400,000 | $520,000 |
| 55 | $230,000 | $510,000 | $680,000 |
| 60 | $280,000 | $640,000 | $900,000 |
| 65 | $350,000 | $800,000 | $1,000,000 |
How Much Super Should I Have at 30?
At 30, you have 37 years until the standard retirement age. The median Australian has $45,000 in super, but to be on track for a comfortable retirement, you should aim for $75,000 to $90,000. Time and compound interest are on your side - even small extra contributions now make a big difference.
How Much Super Should I Have at 40?
At 40, you have 27 years until the standard retirement age. The median Australian has $110,000 in super, but to be on track for a comfortable retirement, you should aim for $210,000 to $260,000. Time and compound interest are on your side - even small extra contributions now make a big difference.
How Much Super Should I Have at 50?
At 50, you have 17 years until the standard retirement age. The median Australian has $190,000 in super, but to be on track for a comfortable retirement, you should aim for $400,000 to $520,000. You're in the prime earning years - maximizing contributions now is crucial.
How Much Super Should I Have at 60?
At 60, you have 7 years until the standard retirement age. The median Australian has $280,000 in super, but to be on track for a comfortable retirement, you should aim for $640,000 to $900,000. Consider catch-up contributions if you're behind. The contribution cap is higher for those over 50.
ASFA Retirement Standards 2024
The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) defines what you need for different retirement lifestyles:
Comfortable Retirement
Good health insurance, regular holidays, eat out, run a car, and enjoy leisure activities.
Modest Retirement
Basic activities, older car, limited travel, and mostly home-based leisure.
How to Catch Up
Salary Sacrifice
Contribute pre-tax salary to super. You'll pay 15% tax instead of your marginal rate.
Carry-Forward Contributions
If you didn't use your full $30k cap in previous years, you can catch up now.
Government Co-Contribution
If you earn under $60,400, the government matches your after-tax contributions (up to $500).
Spouse Contributions
Contribute to a low-income spouse's super and get a tax offset up to $540.
Don't Panic If You're Behind
The median figures show most Australians are behind the "comfortable" targets. Age Pension provides a safety net, and small improvements now compound significantly over time. Focus on what you can control: reduce fees, contribute consistently, and choose appropriate investments.
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Open Salary CalculatorThese are general benchmarks based on ASFA, ATO, and industry data. Individual circumstances vary. Consider seeking financial advice for personalized retirement planning.