Why should I invest and save into superannuation?
If you're wondering whether adding to your super is really worth it, you're not alone. Superannuation can feel like something you don’t need to think about until later in life—but the truth is, the sooner you understand and engage with your super, the better off you’ll be when it’s time to retire.
Here’s why investing into your super now is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.
What makes superannuation so effective?
Super is specifically designed to help you save and invest for retirement—and it comes with generous tax advantages and investment opportunities that aren’t available with other savings accounts or investments.
Here's why super matters:
It’s one of the most tax-effective ways to save for retirement
It gives you access to professional investment management
You can choose how your money is invested
It offers flexibility and insurance options
Your earnings in super are taxed at a much lower rate
Will your super be enough?
Here’s the reality: relying on employer contributions alone may not be enough to fund the retirement you’re hoping for.
Over a 40-year working life, employer contributions typically provide just over 50% of your pre-retirement income. But for most Australians to retire comfortably, you’ll likely need closer to 65% of your pre-retirement income.
That gap is where personal contributions and smart strategies come in—and where we can help.
What are the tax benefits of super?
One of super’s biggest advantages is its favourable tax treatment:
Concessional contributions (from pre-tax income) are taxed at just 15%—lower than most people’s marginal tax rate.
Non-concessional contributions (from after-tax income) can also grow within the low-tax environment of super.
Earnings in super are taxed at up to 15%, and only 10% on capital gains.
Once you start a pension from your super, the tax on earnings drops to zero.
Withdrawals after age 60 are tax-free in most cases.
Put simply: more of your money stays working for you.
Flexible strategies to grow your super
Super is not one-size-fits-all. There are several ways to tailor your approach, including:
Salary sacrifice
Government co-contributions
Spouse contributions
Super splitting
Personal contributions
Transition to retirement strategies
Self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs)
Our team can help you choose the right strategy based on your age, income, lifestyle goals, and risk tolerance.
Real results start with a plan
At McMillans, we can prepare a personalised retirement projection to see how you're tracking and identify which strategies could make the biggest impact. Whether you're just starting out or approaching retirement, it’s never too early—or too late—to take your super seriously.
Talk to us about getting more from your super
If you want your super to work harder for your future, let’s start a conversation today.