How much super should I have?

It helps to separate three numbers: what you have now, what people of a similar age have, and what you may need when you retire. They answer different questions.

Your current balance reflects things such as earnings, time in the workforce, career breaks, investment returns, fees and insurance costs. A lower balance does not tell your whole story.

A retirement estimate adds another piece: what your super could become over the years ahead. That is more useful when you also consider future spending, housing and other income.

An average is a comparison, not a personal savings target or a pass-or-fail test.

Average super balances by age

Moneysmart reports these Australian average balances from APRA’s June 2026 statistics, rounded to the nearest $100:

25–29: $28,800

30–34: $55,200

35–39: $88,400

40–44: $123,400

45–49: $157,900

50–54: $198,000

55–59: $243,300

60–64: $270,800

These describe recorded balances, not how much every person needs. The figures cover age groups, so a 30-year-old is being compared with people aged 30 to 34.

Why averages do not tell the whole story

An average adds balances together and divides by the number counted. Very large balances can pull it up. A median is the middle balance, with half above and half below.

Neither figure accounts for your home, a partner’s savings, debts or other income. Someone with less super and lower living costs may face a different retirement picture from someone with more super and ongoing rent.

Compare like with like: check the data date, age band and whether a figure is an average, median or modelled target.

What could your balance become?

Your current balance is a starting point. Time, future contributions, investment returns and costs can all affect the amount available later. Projections rely on assumptions, so actual results will differ.

My Tomorrow lets you explore an illustration using your age, income, current super and chosen retirement age. It does not tell you whether a particular balance will be enough for your circumstances.

The next question is how much retirement income you may need. That starts with the life you want to fund, rather than someone else’s balance.

Want to see your number?

Frequently asked questions

How much super should I have at 30?

Generally, there is no required balance at 30. The June 2026 average for ages 30–34 was $55,200, as reported by Moneysmart from APRA data. It is a comparison point, not a verdict on whether you are on track. Your years of work and future retirement needs matter too.

How much super should I have at 40 or 50?

There is no universal target. June 2026 averages were $123,400 for ages 40–44 and $198,000 for ages 50–54. What you may need also depends on time until retirement, housing, spending and other resources. Being above an average does not guarantee enough retirement income.

Can my super grow after a career break?

Yes, a balance can change after a career break as work, contributions, returns and costs change. A break can also explain why comparing yourself with an age average feels unhelpful. A projection can show a possible path from today, but it cannot promise a future result.