Your superannuation balance at retirement depends on four main factors: your starting balance, ongoing contributions (employer SG + any salary sacrifice), investment returns, and fees. Compound growth means even small changes made early have a massive impact decades later.

Super Guarantee Rate

The super guarantee rate for 2025–26 is 12% of your ordinary time earnings. Your employer must contribute this amount into your super fund on top of your salary. This rate reached its long-planned 12% target from 1 July 2025.

Contributions Tax

Concessional contributions (employer SG and salary sacrifice) are taxed at 15% inside super, rather than your marginal tax rate. This is what makes salary sacrifice into super so tax-effective for most workers. The concessional contributions cap is $30,000 per year for 2025–26.

About This Calculator

This calculator projects your super balance at retirement using constant assumptions for salary growth, investment returns, and fees. Real returns will vary year to year. It does not account for Division 293 tax, government co-contributions, or the transfer balance cap. For personalised super advice, consult a licensed financial adviser or visit the ATO.