Your retirement, your way
Plan, prepare & prosper - Your guide to a confident retirement journey.
Your journey starts here
Retirement is more than just the end of your working years – it’s the beginning of exciting new opportunities. Whether you are building your superannuation for the future, planning your transition, or already enjoying the rewards of your hard work, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Discover how to make the most of your super, create a steady retirement income, as well as leaving a legacy for the next generation if you choose to. With the right tools and knowledge, you can approach retirement with confidence and clarity.
Our goal is to help equip you with the knowledge and tools to plan a retirement aligned with your goals. We connect you with trusted tools and resources including Moneysmart – a government platform designed to help Australians plan for their future. With free tools like the Moneysmart Retirement Planner and Super Contributions Optimiser, you can explore personalised scenarios and make better informed decisions.
Building your super for the future
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Preparing for retirement success
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Turning super into retirement income
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Managing your Netwealth retirement income
Learn moreBuilding your super for the future
Your superannuation is one of the most significant investments you’ll make in your lifetime. By taking proactive steps to grow your super today, you can make a substantial difference to your retirement. Understanding how much you’ll need, consolidating multiple accounts, and making additional contributions are all effective strategies to help ensure your retirement aligns with your goals. Planning early gives you the freedom to secure a better retirement lifestyle and provides peace of mind for the years ahead.
How much super will I have at retirement?
The first step in planning your retirement is understanding how much super you’ll have when the time comes. This depends on several factors, including your current balance, contributions, investment choices, and fees. Using Moneysmart’s Retirement Planner, you can estimate your future super balance and calculate how much you’ll have to spend each year in retirement. This free tool allows you to test different scenarios, such as increasing contributions, lowering fees, or adjusting investments, to see how these changes could improve your savings. Planning early ensures your super is aligned with the lifestyle you want and helps your money last throughout your retirement years. Even small adjustments today can make a significant difference in the future.
Use the Moneysmart retirement plannerWhat’s the importance of consolidating my super accounts?
If you have multiple superannuation accounts, consolidating them into a single account can help you save money and simplify your financial management. Each super account charges fees, and having multiple accounts means you may be paying unnecessary costs. Consolidating eliminates these duplicate fees, leaving more of your money in your fund to grow. Before making the switch, it’s important to review any unique benefits or insurance coverage tied to your current accounts to ensure you don’t lose valuable features. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) offers a simple, secure process to consolidate super through the myGov platform, where you can view all your accounts and transfer balances safely. Consolidating now allows you to focus on growing your super without worrying about lost funds or the cost of having multiple accounts.
Learn more about consolidating your super with MoneysmartHow can I make extra contributions to grow my super?
Adding extra contributions to your superannuation is a straightforward way to grow your savings faster. You can make pre-tax contributions, such as salary sacrifice, which are taxed at a lower rate of 15%, or after-tax contributions, which may make you eligible for government co-contributions or tax offsets. Moneysmart’s Super Contributions Optimiser helps you evaluate which option is most beneficial for your situation. Even small, regular contributions can add up significantly over time thanks to the power of compound growth. By taking advantage of available tax incentives, you can help secure a more comfortable and financially stable retirement.
Use the Moneysmart Super Contributions OptimiserPreparing for retirement success
Preparing for retirement involves thoughtful planning to ensure financial security and a fulfilling lifestyle. By addressing key aspects like retirement checklists, government benefits, superannuation access, and downsizing options, you can lay the foundation for a stress-free transition. Explore how to make informed decisions and maximise your resources for a brighter future.
How to create a retirement planning checklist
How to create a retirement planning checklist
Planning your retirement starts with creating a checklist to manage your finances and address lifestyle changes. Begin by deciding when you’d like to retire and what your ideal lifestyle looks like—whether it’s staying active, socialising, or traveling. Consider where you’ll live and your expected living costs. Plan how to pay off debts, boost your super contributions, and create a savings buffer. Don’t forget to update your will and powers of attorney to secure your future. A detailed plan today can provide clarity and confidence for tomorrow.
Create your retirement checklist with MoneysmartWhen can I access my super and the Age Pension?
When can I access my super and the Age Pension?
Knowing when you can access your super and apply for the Age Pension is essential for retirement planning. Your eligibility depends on your preservation age, which varies based on your birth year. For many, accessing super earlier can fund a more flexible transition to retirement, while the Age Pension provides longer-term support. Tools like Moneysmart's Super and Pension Age Calculator offer clarity on these timelines, helping you plan withdrawals, balance investments, and align your resources with your retirement goals.
Use the Super and Pension Age CalculatorHow long will my money last?
Estimating your retirement income is crucial for effective planning. Moneysmart’s Retirement Planner is a free tool that helps you calculate how much income you can expect to receive from your superannuation and the age pension. By entering details such as your age, salary, spouse’s information, and planned retirement age, you’ll gain a clearer picture of your financial future. This tool also explores how factors like contributions, fees, and investment choices can impact your final balance. Additionally, it can account for lifestyle changes such as working part-time or taking a career break, giving you the insights you need to make informed decisions and help secure your financial future.
Estimate your income with Moneysmart’s Retirement PlannerWhat are some common investment risks in retirement?
Planning for retirement means managing several key risks that can impact the longevity and stability of your superannuation savings. Longevity risk is the possibility of outliving your savings, which requires a well-balanced investment strategy to ensure sustainable income throughout retirement. Investment risk comes from market fluctuations that can affect the value of your super, making diversification across cash, fixed interest, equities, and property an important consideration for managing volatility. Inflation risk can erode the purchasing power of your savings over time, so having exposure to growth assets like equities, infrastructure, and property can help offset rising costs and maintain your income. Understanding these risks and how they impact your retirement can help you make informed decisions about your investment strategy.
Explore more risks with Netwealth’s Operating your Super Accelerator account guideHow can government benefits support retirement?
Government benefits, such as the age pension, can provide valuable financial support during retirement. Eligibility for these benefits is determined by your age, residency status, and the results of income and asset tests. Along with the age pension, retirees may also qualify for additional support like concession cards to help reduce living costs and health care subsidies to lower medical expenses. Free tools like the Super and Pension Age Calculator can help you identify when you’ll qualify for these benefits, helping you maximise the resources available to you. Understanding these options can give you greater confidence in your retirement planning.
Explore government benefits with MoneysmartWhat happens to my superannuation when I die?
Planning for what happens to your superannuation when you die is an important step in securing your financial legacy. Unlike other assets, your superannuation is not managed through your will and is paid directly to the beneficiaries you nominate. It’s crucial to keep your nominations up to date to ensure your super is distributed according to your wishes. Comprehensive estate planning should also include a valid will, powers of attorney, and, where appropriate, testamentary trusts for more complex arrangements. These steps ensure your assets are protected and your legacy is carried out exactly as you intend. You can check your nominated beneficiary online or contact Netwealth on 1800 888 223.
Explore Moneysmart’s guide to estate planningTurning super into retirement income
As you transition into retirement, your superannuation becomes a crucial resource for funding your lifestyle. Choosing how to convert your super into a reliable income stream is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make. Options include a transition to retirement (TTR) strategy, account-based pensions, annuities, and lump sum withdrawals. Many retirees also opt for a combination of these methods to suit their personal needs. Each choice offers unique benefits and flexibility, but it’s essential to consider the potential tax implications, longevity of funds, and impact on government benefits to ensure your money supports you throughout retirement.
How to access super while still working?
A transition to retirement (TTR) strategy allows you to access part of your superannuation while continuing to work. This approach is especially useful if you’re reducing your work hours and need to supplement your income. With a TTR account, you can draw regular payments while still growing your super through ongoing contributions. Understanding the rules around preservation age and the tax implications of accessing your super early is essential to make the most of this strategy. Moneysmart provides comprehensive resources to help you navigate the requirements and assess whether a TTR account suits your retirement transition plan.
Learn more about transitioning to retirement with MoneysmartWhat is an account-based pension?
An account-based pension provides you with an income stream, allowing you to withdraw regular or ad-hoc amounts by selling your investments. You can control the withdrawal amounts (subject to minimum withdrawal amounts) and your investment choices but your balance is not guaranteed to last. Moneysmart’s resources on account-based pensions can help you understand how to set up and manage this type of income stream. By aligning your withdrawals and investment choices with your financial goals, you can create a retirement plan that provides flexibility and supports your lifestyle.
Explore account-based pensions with MoneysmartWhat is an annuity?
An annuity is an income stream that provides regular payment for a fixed period or for life. You can purchase an annuity with your super or savings, and they are particularly suited to retirees seeking financial security and predictable income. However, annuities lack flexibility. Once you purchase an annuity, the terms are set with little or no flexibility for additional withdrawals. Moneysmart’s guide to annuities explains the benefits and limitations, helping you decide if this predictable income stream is the right choice for your retirement plan.
Learn more about annuities with MoneysmartCan I take my super as a lump sum?
Withdrawing your super as a lump sum gives you immediate access to your savings, which can be useful for large expenses like paying off a mortgage, funding a significant purchase, or consolidating debts. However, this option can quickly deplete your retirement savings and may affect your eligibility for government benefits. Moneysmart offers resources to help you weigh the pros and cons of taking a lump sum, including understanding the tax implications if you withdraw funds before age 60. Combining a lump sum with other income streams can provide a balance of flexibility and financial stability, ensuring you make the most of your superannuation.
Understand lump sum withdrawals with MoneysmartHow are retirement income options taxed?
The tax treatment of your income stream depends on factors such as your age, the type of income stream, and whether your super contributions were taxed or untaxed. For individuals aged over 60, income streams from super are generally tax-free. However, lump sum withdrawals and transition to retirement accounts may have different tax rules to consider. Moneysmart’s guide on retirement income and tax provides clear information on the tax implications of each option. By understanding these rules, you can plan a tax-effective strategy to maximise your savings and help ensure your retirement income supports your needs. We recommend consulting a licenced financial adviser or tax professional for tax advice.
Explore tax rules for retirement income with MoneysmartManaging your Netwealth retirement income
Netwealth Super Accelerator is designed to help you effectively manage your retirement income with flexibility and control. With a variety of investment options, you can take steps to maximise your income, address risks, and access your savings as needed. Our solutions, like an extensive range of managed funds, models, term deposits and fixed term annuities, support you to balance risk and provide stability, helping your funds last throughout retirement. Flexible income streams, lump sum withdrawals, and customisable payment schedules provide opportunities to align your strategy with your unique financial objectives. Whether you are transitioning to retirement or managing long-term income streams, Super Accelerator can support you in building a retirement plan tailored to your goals.
How do you establish an income stream with Netwealth?
If you’ve reached your preservation age, Super Accelerator provides straightforward options to establish an income stream that fits your needs. For retirees, a Standard Income Stream (SIS) offers flexibility, allowing you to receive regular payments with no maximum limits. Earnings from the SIS are tax-free for individuals over 60, and lump sum withdrawals of $500 or more are also available for added financial flexibility. For members still working, the Transition to Retirement (TTR) income stream provides access to a portion of your super while enabling you to continue contributing and growing your balance. Payments range between a calculated minimum and a 10% maximum of your account balance. When you reach age 65, the TTR automatically converts to a SIS. Netwealth’s Knowledge Centre provides step-by-step guidance to help you set up an income stream that aligns with your circumstances.
Learn more about establishing an income streamHow can you manage payments and withdrawals with the Netwealth Super Accelerator account?
Super Accelerator allows you to manage payments and withdrawals with flexibility and convenience. You can set up regular income payments tailored to your lifestyle, with options to schedule payments weekly, fortnightly, or monthly. These payments can be adjusted over time to ensure your income aligns with changes in your financial or personal circumstances. For unexpected expenses or major purchases, the account also supports one-off withdrawals, offering additional flexibility when you need it. All payments are managed in compliance with government regulations, including minimum and maximum pension payment standards, providing peace of mind and security. Netwealth’s Knowledge Centre provides detailed guidance on managing retirement payments and withdrawals within Super Accelerator to help support your financial needs.
Explore common retirement related payment and withdrawal FAQsWhat managed investments are available, and why might they suit you?
Managed funds and managed models can help retirees structure their portfolios to balance income stability, capital preservation, and long-term growth. Netwealth offers a broad range of investment options to cater to different retirement needs, from defensive assets to growth-oriented strategies. Diversified managed funds allocate across cash, fixed interest, property, infrastructure, and equities, helping retirees manage risk while generating income. Income-focused funds may suit those seeking consistent returns with lower volatility, while growth-oriented funds provide exposure to assets designed to outpace inflation and maintain purchasing power over time. With Netwealth’s Compare Funds and Models tool, you can explore the investment landscape, review past performance, and align your portfolio with your financial goals.
Discover and compare your managed fund investment optionsHow can you invest in fixed-term annuities to secure a predictable income?
Fixed-term annuities provide predictable and reliable income over a set period, offering retirees financial stability. These investments deliver a fixed rate of return, with regular payments deposited into your Netwealth cash account. At the end of the term, your original investment and any remaining income are returned for reinvestment or withdrawal. Fixed-term annuities are offered by registered life companies and are designed for individuals seeking low-risk income solutions. However, early withdrawals are generally not possible, making careful planning essential. Netwealth Knowledge Centre provides resources to help you explore available annuity options, terms, and rates so you can make an informed decision about this stable income solution.
Learn more about fixed term annuities and view current ratesHow can you invest in term deposits for reliable returns?
Term deposits are a secure and straightforward investment option that provides predictable returns over a fixed period. With Netwealth, interest payments are deposited directly into your cash account during the term, and the principal, along with any remaining interest, is returned at maturity. These investments are particularly well-suited for retirees who prioritise capital preservation and predictable income. Netwealth offers a range of term deposit options from ANZ, NAB and BOQ, with terms and rates tailored to meet different financial goals. Since early withdrawals are not typically allowed, selecting a term that aligns with your needs is important. Detailed information on available term deposits and current rates is accessible through Netwealth’s Knowledge Centre.
Explore term deposit options and view current ratesHow can you nominate a beneficiary?
Nominating a beneficiary ensures your superannuation benefits are distributed according to your wishes in the event of your passing. Netwealth Super Accelerator allows you to nominate one or more beneficiaries through a binding or non-binding nomination. A binding nomination legally requires the trustee to distribute your benefits to the nominated individuals, provided the nomination is valid at the time of your death. A non-binding nomination serves as guidance for the trustee, who will determine how to distribute your benefits. Keeping your nominations up to date ensures your superannuation aligns with your intentions. Netwealth’s Knowledge Centre provides detailed instructions to help you complete and submit your beneficiary nomination. You can check your nominated beneficiary online or contact Netwealth on 1800 888 223.
Learn how to nominate a beneficiaryAdditional resources
Planning for retirement involves managing your superannuation effectively, understanding your options, and staying informed. At Netwealth, we’re committed to providing the tools and support you need to confidently navigate your retirement journey. To help you make informed decisions, we offer a range of resources that cover account setup, investment strategies, and retirement income management. These resources are designed to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way. If you need further assistance or have questions about the resources and tools available, you can speak with one of our consultants. While we do not provide personal financial advice, our team is here to offer general guidance and help you make the most of your superannuation options.
Operating your Super Accelerator account guide
This guide provides detailed insights into efficiently managing your Super Accelerator. It covers key topics, including how to open and operate your account, contribution methods, and appointing a financial adviser. Additionally, it outlines various investment options, such as managed funds, term deposits, and international securities, empowering members to make informed investment choices. The guide also highlights important features like family linking, dollar cost averaging, and in-specie transfers, while addressing associated risks like market and longevity risks. This guide is ideal for those transitioning to retirement or managing their retirement income and seeking greater control over their finances.
View guideAdditional information about superannuation guide
This comprehensive guide provides retirees with the tools to make informed decisions about their superannuation. It explains contribution types (concessional and non-concessional), eligibility rules, and the benefits of income streams, including transition-to-retirement options. It also offers clarity on benefit payments, preservation rules, and the tax implications for contributions, earnings, and withdrawals. With information on death benefits, dependents, and lost superannuation accounts, this guide emphasises balancing retirement income, managing risks, and maintaining access to savings. By understanding these rules and processes, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your retirement strategy.
View guideNetwealth Knowledge Centre
The Netwealth Knowledge Centre provides detailed step-by-step guides to help you manage your Super Accelerator account through your online portal and mobile app. It covers essential tasks such as making contributions, setting up income streams, updating personal details, and accessing superannuation information. With clear instructions tailored for online account management, the Knowledge Centre helps users to navigate their superannuation with greater efficiency. Whether you need assistance with tracking your account balance, performance, managing transactions, making super contributions and withdrawals, or updating beneficiaries, this resource simplifies the process. It’s an essential hub for managing your retirement account on the go helping you make the most of your Super Accelerator account.
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