How much super should I have at 30, 40, 50 and beyond?

Planning for retirement might feel like something to worry about later—but the sooner you start, the better your chances of living comfortably when the time comes. So, how much superannuation should you have by certain ages in Australia? Let’s break it down.

Why superannuation matters

Superannuation (or super) is designed to fund your retirement. The more you contribute early in your career, the more time your money has to grow through compound interest. While there’s no “one size fits all” answer, benchmarks can help you understand whether you're on track.

How much super should you have at 30?

By age 30, a good goal is to have the equivalent of your annual salary saved in super. For example, if you’re earning $70,000, aim for a super balance of around $70,000. This benchmark assumes regular employer contributions and a modest level of voluntary contributions.

Tips:

  • Consolidate your super if you have multiple accounts

  • Consider making voluntary contributions (even small ones)

  • Check your super fund’s fees and performance

How much super should you have at 40?

By age 40, aim for around two times your annual salary in super. If you're earning $90,000, a super balance of $180,000 puts you on a strong trajectory.

Tips:

  • Use this decade to ramp up salary sacrifice contributions

  • Make use of the concessional contributions cap

  • Speak to a financial planner about long-term goals

How much super should you have at 50?

By 50, the recommended amount is about four times your annual salary. For example, a $100,000 income earner would ideally have $400,000 saved.

Tips:

  • This is your last big opportunity to boost super before retirement

  • Look into “catch-up” concessional contributions if you’ve had low contribution years

  • Review your investment strategy—do you want to be more conservative or still chase growth?

Superannuation benchmarks at retirement

According to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA), a single person aiming for a comfortable retirement needs around $595,000 in super, while couples need around $690,000. This assumes you’re eligible for the Age Pension to supplement your income.

For a modest retirement, the required balance is lower—around $100,000—but may involve some lifestyle compromises.

Factors that influence your super needs

  • When you plan to retire (early retirees need more)

  • Whether you’ll qualify for the Age Pension

  • Your desired lifestyle in retirement

  • Other investments or income streams (like property or shares)

Not on track? It’s not too late

Even if you're behind on your super goals, there are ways to catch up. Strategies may include:

  • Salary sacrificing

  • After-tax contributions (non-concessional)

  • Spouse contributions

  • Low-income super tax offset (LISTO) eligibility

  • Reviewing fund performance and switching if needed

Let’s maximise your super together

At McMillans, we help clients of all ages understand their super balance, contribution options, and retirement goals. Whether you're in your 30s or 50s, it’s never too early—or too late—to take control of your financial future.

Want to review your super strategy? Contact us today and book a meeting with our financial planning team.

SuperannuationCristy Houghton